Loc Lessons : 3+ Years loc journey

It has been a little over 3.5 years since my loc journey began, as much as there has been much joy in having my locs, there has also been some reality checks and reminders.

Here are three lessons from year 3 of my loc journey so far:

Lint is a real thing!

Over the last year, the existence of lint has been increasingly noticeable. Simply put, lint is fiber from clothing, beddings, dead skin or particles in the atmosphere that get stuck in your locs. When my hair was shorter this was not something I ever really noticed, however, with added length and maturity (and perhaps a lazy care regime), this has increased. Our locs are formed in such a way that it is easy for particles to get trapped. Nonetheless, here are two things I have found to be helpful when fighting against lint. 

1. Cover your locs. As a preventative measure, when you go to bed make sure you have a bonnet or a scarf on and make sure that the ends of your hair are tucked away (this is where the particles are attracted to the most). Some even suggest covering your hair whenever you are home to be extra cautious. Be attentive to the types of fabrics you are wearing. If you live in cooler/colder climates, select fabrics for scarves and sweaters carefully. You will find it in your hair, trust me.
2. As part of your hair care routine, take some time between washes and just before you wash to ‘comb through’ your hair, remove lint that may still be on the surface. I have seen others use tweezers to pick lint, while some swear by brushing their locs as a preventative measure. Whichever method you use (there are numerous thoughts on this online), ensure that you consider the maturity of your locs and whether that method will affect the health and integrity of your locs.

Impatience will become visible

At the start of our journey, many of us impatiently desire a manicured look, trying all we can to tame the frizz. But, twisting and wrapping frequently at the beginning of your loc journey will definitely show as your locs grow, leaving you with inconsistency in the overall form. I began my loc journey at the tail-end of postpartum hair loss and was extra cautious to make sure my hair married well. In short, I was impatient. I notice how over twisting led to thinning and as they have lengthened I have had to snip really thin ends to create a fuller look. Earlier this year, I had another baby, and I am very conscious about not over twisting. Trying to keep my hair neat without forcing growing edges to go back into the loc, was difficult at times. Our hair goes through phases due to hormonal changes, stress, the weather and more. Adaptation and flexibility is KEY! We cannot rush the process.

Simplicity is King.

I am continually reminded on this hair general to KEEP IT SIMPLE! Everyone is screaming #softlife these days, and for me that includes minimizing stress and anxiety with my hair. Keeping my routine simple, washing, misting and retwisting with just oil, has continued to work for me. This year I have waited a little longer between retwists while allowing my edges to grow back and scalp to rest, which has been super helpful! 

As the years go by, I am increasingly confident in my choice to start locs. 

Here’s to many more lessons, fabulous hair looks and undeniable self-confidence!

James 1:17, NIV: Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.