Hey curlfriend, starting your journey with natural locs on your gorgeous 4C hair is such an exciting decision. It’s like embarking on a new relationship with your hair, filled with growth, discovery, and commitment. But just like any relationship, there are some ground rules to ensure success. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with a detailed guide on the dos and don’ts to help you kickstart your loc journey right. Let’s dive in!

What Are Locs?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s quickly define what locs are. Locs, also known as dreadlocks, are a natural hairstyle where the hair is matted and locked into rope-like strands over time. For 4C hair, locs are a beautiful and versatile way to embrace your natural texture while rocking a low-maintenance yet statement making style.

The Dos of Starting Natural Locs on 4C Hair

1. Do Choose the Right Starter Method

The method you choose to start your locs will significantly affect how they look and develop over time. Popular starter methods for 4C hair include:

• Two-Strand Twists: Ideal for beginners. These twists will naturally mat and lock over time.
• Coils: Using a comb or finger to create small coils that will form the foundation of your locs.
• Braids (Plaits): Perfect for those who want thicker locs.
• Freeform: Allowing your hair to naturally mat and lock without much manipulation.

Pro Tip: Consider consulting a loctician to help you decide which method is best for your hair goals.

2. Do Keep Your Scalp Clean

A clean scalp is the foundation of healthy locs. When starting locs, it’s essential to establish a consistent washing routine to prevent buildup and itchiness.

• How Often to Wash: Wash your starter locs every 2-3 weeks to avoid unraveling while keeping your scalp clean.
• Gentle Shampoo: Use a residue-free shampoo to ensure there’s no product buildup.

Recommendation:

• Jamaican Mango and Lime Tingle Shampoo (Residue-free and gentle on hair)
• Shop Here

3. Do Moisturize Your Hair

Even though locs are low-maintenance, 4C hair still craves moisture. Dry locs can lead to brittleness and breakage, so keep your locs hydrated.

• Use a lightweight spray moisturizer or DIY a mixture of water, aloe vera juice, and a few drops of essential oil.
• Seal in moisture with natural oils like jojoba or castor oil.

Recommendation:

• Lion Locs Rose Water Hydration Spray – Lightweight Scalp Dreadlock Moisturizer for All Hair Types (Great for moisturizing locs!)
• Shop Here

4. Do Protect Your Locs at Night

Your locs need protection while you sleep to prevent lint buildup and frizz. Invest in a satin or silk bonnet, scarf, or pillowcase.

Recommendation:

• YANIBEST Satin Bonnet for Natural Hair (Soft and roomy for locs!)
• Shop Here

5. Do Be Patient

Locs take time to mature. It’s a journey, so embrace every stage, from the baby loc phase to the mature phase. Patience is key to growing healthy and beautiful locs.

The Don’ts of Starting Natural Locs on 4C Hair

1. Don’t Over-Twist Your Locs

Retwisting too often can cause thinning and breakage at the roots. 4C hair is delicate, so give your locs time to grow and lock naturally.

• Recommended Frequency: Retwist every 4-6 weeks.

2. Don’t Use Heavy Products

Avoid waxes, creams, and heavy gels that can cause buildup and weigh your locs down. Stick to lightweight and residue-free products.

Pro Tip: If you notice buildup, try an apple cider vinegar (ACV) rinse to detox your locs.

Recommendation:

• 365 by Whole Foods Market, Vinegar Apple Cider Organic (Perfect for rinses!)
• Shop Here

3. Don’t Ignore Your Scalp

Your scalp’s health directly affects the health of your locs. Don’t let your scalp dry out or become clogged with product buildup. Massage your scalp regularly with oils like tea tree or peppermint to stimulate growth and maintain a healthy environment for your locs.

Recommendation:

• Peppermint Tea Tree Loc Oil for Dreads & Locs (Stimulates growth and soothes the scalp.)
• Shop Here

4. Don’t Pick or Pull at Your Locs

It’s tempting to fiddle with your baby locs, but picking or pulling can cause weak spots and disrupt the locking process. Let your locs form naturally without excessive manipulation.

5. Don’t Compare Your Journey to Others

Every loc journey is unique. Your locs will develop at their own pace, depending on factors like hair texture, density, and the starter method you choose. Celebrate your progress and avoid comparing your journey to someone else’s.

Additional Tips for Starting Locs on 4C Hair

1. Clarify Your Hair Before Locing

Before you start your loc journey, clarify your hair with clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup. This ensures your locs start on a clean, healthy foundation.

2. Embrace Frizz

Frizz is a natural part of the loc journey, especially for 4C hair. It’s a sign that your hair is doing what it’s supposed to do. Embrace it as part of the process.

3. Be Gentle

4C hair is prone to breakage, so handle your locs with care. Avoid tight styles or excessive pulling, and always detangle gently if needed.

4. Stay Consistent

Consistency is crucial for healthy locs. Stick to your hair care routine and resist the urge to over-manipulate your locs.

Recommended Products for Starting Locs on 4C Hair

1. Shampoo

• Sage and Rosemary Shampoo Sulfate Free – Sage Oil Clarifying Shampoo for Build Up and Scalp Moisturizer.
• Shop Here

2. Moisturizer

• Jamaican Mango & Lime No More Itch Gro Spray (Hydrating and soothing)
• Shop Here

3. Scalp Oil

• African Pride Black Castor Miracle Hair & Scalp Sealing Oil – Locks in Moisture & Soothes, Contains Black Castor/Tea Tree/Soybean Oil  (Perfect for soothing itchiness)
• Shop Here

4. Detox Rinse

• G+H CLEAR+ Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse | Clarifying Formula to Remove Buildup, Prevent Dandruff & Itchiness | For Healthy, Shiny & Soft Hair(Detoxifies and cleanses locs)
• Shop Here

Final Thoughts

Starting locs on your 4C hair is a beautiful journey that requires love, care, and patience. By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll set yourself up for success and enjoy a rewarding loc experience. Remember, your locs are a reflection of your unique beauty, so wear them with pride and confidence.

Have questions or tips of your own? Let’s chat in the comments, I’d love to hear about your loc journey.