10 Tips for healthy locs
Words by BONTLE MODISELLE
01
Consider it carefully Dreads are a lifestyle. A lifelong commitment. If you’re not up for it, go for faux locs instead. That will give you a similar style experience without being married to them.
02 Don’t twist too often
Or too tight! Twisting locs exposes your scalp and makes it vulnerable to breakage. Or worse, too much tension can lead to complete hair loss or patches.
03 Go to a pro
Get a professional loctician to start your journey – they set the tone of your dread journey, from sectioning, parting and sizing (thick or thin).
04 Use natural oils
Go for dread specic products. Make use of beeswax, moulding creams and moisturising sprays for hair health.
05 Drink water and eat well
There is a direct relationship between your hair and your diet. Consider the physical wellness of your body, but also ‘ the richness, fullness and optimum health of your hair through your diet.
06 Let your hair breathe
Try not to wear your hair in one style for too long. Avoid over-styling, as well as under-styling, unless the ‘neglected’ look is the aesthetic you’re going for. Hair should be fun, never boring.
07 Moisturise your hair
Take daily care of your hair. If neglected, the hair looks and feels dry, causing easy breakage, discolouration, thinning and hair loss. There are dread specic moisturising and conditioning products to nurture the hair, ensuring it looks, feels and smells good.
08 Separate hair daily
To avoid interlocking, use a comb or your ngers to separate the hair gently. Keep the sectioning visible to keep it neat.
09 Sleep with a wrap
Go to bed with headgear that is gentle on the hair and hairline. Choose soft fabrics like silk or satin.
10 Be patient
Rate of growth varies from person to person. If grown naturally, it could take years to achieve your desired look.