Yes, you can wash starter locs, but you should be gentle when doing so to avoid unraveling or damaging them. It’s important to keep your scalp and hair clean to prevent buildup and maintain healthy hair growth.
Dos and don’ts of washing starter locs
Dos
- Do use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo that won’t strip your hair of its natural oils.
- Do be gentle when massaging your scalp and washing your locs to avoid unraveling or damaging them.
- Do rinse your hair and scalp thoroughly with warm water to ensure that all the shampoo and conditioner is removed.
- Do use a light conditioner on the ends of your locs to keep them moisturized and prevent breakage.
- Do blot your hair dry with a clean towel to avoid roughing up your locs.
Don’ts
- Don’t use heavy oils or styling products on your starter locs until they have fully matured, as these can cause buildup and make it harder for your locs to tighten and form properly.
- Don’t use hot water to wash your locs, as this can cause your hair to become dry and brittle.
- Don’t rub your hair too vigorously when washing or drying it, as this can cause your locs to unravel.
- Don’t twist or manipulate your locs too much, as this can also cause them to unravel or become damaged.
- Don’t use a regular comb or brush on your locs, as this can cause them to unravel or become frizzy. Instead, use a special tool designed for grooming locs, such as a loc comb or crochet hook.
Step by step guide to washing starter locs
Step 1
Wet your hair and scalp thoroughly with warm water. Make sure that all of your locs are completely soaked.
Step 2
Apply a small amount of shampoo to your scalp. Gently massage the shampoo into your scalp using your fingertips, being careful not to rub your hair too vigorously. Focus on your scalp and roots, rather than your locs themselves.
Step 3
Rinse your hair and scalp thoroughly with warm water until all the shampoo is gone. Make sure to rinse your scalp and locs thoroughly, taking care to remove any excess shampoo.
Step 4
Apply a light conditioner to the ends of your locs, avoiding your scalp. Let the conditioner sit for a few minutes before rinsing it out with warm water. Make sure to rinse your locs thoroughly to remove all of the conditioner.
Step 5
Squeeze the excess water out of your hair, being careful not to pull or tug on your locs. Use a clean towel to blot your hair dry, and then allow your locs to air-dry completely.
Remember to be gentle when washing your starter locs, as they are delicate and can easily become damaged or unraveled. It’s also important to avoid using heavy oils or styling products until your locs have fully matured. With proper care, your starter locs will grow into strong and healthy mature locs.
FAQs washing starter locs
How often should I wash my starter locs?
It’s generally recommended to wash starter locs every 1-2 weeks. However, the frequency may vary depending on your hair type, scalp condition, and personal preferences. If your scalp tends to become oily, you may need to wash your locs more frequently. On the other hand, if your scalp is dry or sensitive, you may want to wash your locs less frequently.
Can I use regular shampoo to wash my starter locs?
It’s best to use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to wash your starter locs. Regular shampoos may contain harsh chemicals that can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause your locs to become dry and brittle. Look for a shampoo that is specifically formulated for locs or for natural hair.
Should I use a conditioner on my starter locs?
Yes, you can use a light conditioner on the ends of your locs to keep them moisturized and prevent breakage. However, be careful not to apply conditioner to your scalp, as this can cause buildup and make it harder for your locs to tighten and form properly. Look for a conditioner that is specifically formulated for locs or for natural hair, and avoid using heavy or oily conditioners that can weigh down your hair.
Final thoughts ðŸ’
Washing starter locs is an important part of maintaining healthy and strong locs. It’s important to use a gentle shampoo and conditioner, be gentle when washing and drying your hair, and avoid using heavy oils or styling products until your locs have fully matured.
By following these simple guidelines, you can keep your starter locs clean and healthy, and ensure that they grow into strong and beautiful mature locs. Remember that everyone’s hair is unique, so it’s important to listen to your hair and adjust your hair care routine as needed. With patience and care, you can enjoy beautiful and healthy locs for years to come.
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