Are you ready to get your locs done ? If yes then it is crucial to know he different stages of locs that include starter locs, budding and other three stages. Before you embark on the journey it is crucial to give consideration to different starter loc styles and the pros and cons of starter locs. Lets deep dive into all the details of starter locs.
What are starter locs?
Starter locs which in layman’s terms are also known as baby locs is the initial phase of the captivating locs journey. This stage involves the natural intertwining and locking of hair that results in distinct sections that will gradually mature into fully formed locs.
Throughout this transformative process, the hair undergoes a remarkable transition that is also the commencement of a beautiful and unique evolution. As individuals embark on the starter locs journey, they witness the gradual development of their hair into a distinctive and expressive style. This invisible locs reflects both personal identity and cultural significance.
Starter Locs – Stage 1 of the Locking Process
The initial stage of the locs is characterized by the natural tangling and locking of the hair. The starter locs stage lays the foundation for the development of well-defined locs over time. The duration of the starter locs stage varies from person to person but usually, it lasts anywhere from a few months to a year or more. During these period individuals witness the gradual maturation of their locs into defined and structured form.
Creating Your Desired Parting Pattern
Parting methods play a crucial role in the starter locs process and have a huge impact on the overall appearance and growth pattern of the locs. The most preferred and common parting methods include the square parting technique which creates uniform sections or the organic parting method which gives a natural and free-form look. Other include comb coils, palm rolls, two strand twists. The choice of parting method often depends on personal preference and the desired outcome for the locs.
As individuals select the starter locs styles and embark on a transformative journey that reflects a deeper connection to self-expression and cultural identity. This initial phase sets the tone for the unique and evolving beauty of fully matured locs.
Starter locs Styles- It’s time to level up your hair game
There are plethora of methods to start the starter locs. If you are in confusion about the starter locs styles then it is important to consider various factors that include texture, hair length and the desired end results. It is important to note that every hair texture can form hair locs, all you need to do is to take care of your starter locs and give them the right time to go through the locking phases.
Two Strand Twists
Two Strand Twists is one of the popular starter loc styles that most of the naturalists wear. It involves dividing the hair into sections and then twist the two strand together. As it creates uniformed and defined sections there it forms a neat look overall. As a modern and versatile starter locs style it can go well with various hair textures for controlled and consistent growth.
Pros of Starting Your Loc Journey with Two-Strand Twists
This method mimics a stylish hairstyle (mini twists) as you patiently await the maturation of your locs. Two strand twists are a straightforward process and often convenient for those opting to initiate their locs at home.
This technique tends to yield thicker locs which are beneficial for individuals with longer hair.
Cons of Starting Your Locs with Two-Strand Twists
The main downside is that the twist pattern may take an extended period ranging from 6 months to 2 years to fully disappear.
The possibility of twists unraveling, a common occurrence in the early stages. However, this can be managed by knotting and tying them together to prevent continuous unraveling.
Braid Locs
Do you like to braid your hair from the roots to the bottom? If yes try out this starter loc style. To create braid locs you first start by sectioning your hair into clean, even parts. Next, take each section and tightly braid it from the root to the tip. This way you ensure that each strands are neatly interwoven.
After completing the braids, you have the option to leave them as is or further enhance the loc formation by applying a preferred locking gel or wax. Braid locs provide a distinct appearance during the initial stages of the loc journey and evolve into well-defined locs over time
Pros of Braid Locs
Braid locs are beneficial for those seeking a durable starting point for the locs
This starter loc style is well-suited for thicker or coarser hair textures and caters to various hair types
The versatility of braid locs extends to different braid patterns and complements the unique preferences and aesthetic preferences of various individuals
Cons of Braid Locs
This starter loc style limits the accessibility of this method for individuals with shorter hair.
The formation and maturation of locs may take a longer duration with braid locs into a well-defined loc pattern.
Comb Coils
Comb coils method require a more experienced skill set to create the perfect locs. The process usually starts with creating twisted small sections of hair tightly using the comb. The professional hairdressers usually make use of the twisted comb and roll the comb by pulling it downwards.
This starter loc style is suitable for shorter hair lengths and cylindrical coils loc over time. The end result of the loc is a neater and clean appearance for a defined look.
Pros of Comb Coils
The coiled locs look neat, clean and shiny appearance resembles a deliberate hairstyle.
With thick hair, the installation process for coiled locs is relatively quick, making it a time-efficient process
Cons of Coiled Locs
It is hard to avoid fizziness and tangles particularly after washing which means that you need regular maintenance to preserve the neat appearance of the coils.
It requires the keen attention to prevent any unintended changes to the locs.
Making DIY attempts challenging for comb coils so it is better to seek the expertise of a professional loctician to avoid excessive tension for optimal results.
What are the main differences between the starter locs and matured locs?
As a beginner in locs maybe you think that the two stages are similar but there are various differences in starter locs and matured locs.
Size, Thickness, and Length
In their initial stages, starter locs have smaller and thinner dimensions in comparison to their fully matured counterparts. The size and thickness of these loc increases with time as with the maturation process leads to an increase in thickness and volume. Moreover, starter locs tend to start at a shorter length and originate from the root. While on the other hand fully matured locs have the potential to grow to varying lengths depending upon the hair growth rates and desired outcomes.
Structure and Maturity
The structural characteristics of starter locs gives a less uniform and tightly packed appearance that also reflects their early development. However, as the locs progress along the journey they undergo a tightening process that results in a more consistent and cohesive structure. While fully formed locs is characterized by a well-defined, solid, and tightly interlocked appearance.
Which loc style is suitable for starter loc men ?
There are multiple techniques for starter loc men. Here are few of the most preferred and suitable starter loc techniques for man
- Starter loc with two strand twists
- Starter locs with comb coils
- Starter locs with braids
It is important to read in depth the pros and cons of each stater loc technique before you finalize one for yourself. Moreover consult with the professionals to have thicker locs depending upon your hair texture and size.
What is the average cost of starter locs?
As differnet types of locs have different cost so the average cost of the starter locs is usually in the range of $100-$150 for both genders. Apart from that various factors affect the cost of starter locs that include hair texture, length and the technique used by the professionals. For those who have shorter hair the starter locs process may feel inexpensive to them.
Aftercare Tips for Starter locs
- Use a light leave-in moisturizer to moisturize your locs properly on a regular basis
- While locs are susceptible to odors and buildup more than loose hair therefore it is advisable to wash your locs approximately once every 1-2 weeks.
- Avoid the lingering smell of keeping your hair wet for a long duration. To prevent this either use a blow dryer on low heat or allow your locs to air dry
- Try to Wrap your locs at night with a silk scarf as this will prevent them from breakage
- Routine maintenance from the professionals to keep the locs in good shape so that when they grow into matured locs they are in defined form .
