Opening up about my locs!😂 YT: @abrahamcreates

Starting my loc journey was one of the best decisions I’ve made, and it’s incredible to look back at how much they've transformed over two years. When I first decided to get locs, I had so many questions and, honestly, a lot of doubts. Would they look good? Would I have the patience? And what even is the 'ugly phase' everyone talks about? The curiosity was buzzing, especially seeing how many people embraced this style. My journey started with two-strand twists, which felt like an eternity ago! The initial few months were definitely a test of patience. There were times my hair felt frizzy, unkempt, and just not how I envisioned it. This is what many refer to as the 'budding' phase, where the hair starts to knot and form the locs. It’s crucial during this time to resist the urge to retwist too frequently, as it can cause thinning at the roots. I learned to embrace the frizz as a sign of progress, knowing that my hair was doing exactly what it was supposed to do. It was also interesting to observe how my confidence changed as my locs started to form – there’s a certain swagger that comes with feeling good about your hair, and I definitely noticed a shift, even in those early stages. Maintaining moisture was another big learning curve. I quickly realized that dry locs are brittle locs. I experimented with various natural oils like jojoba and castor oil, and a good rosewater spray became my best friend. For washing, I found that using a residue-free shampoo was key to preventing buildup, which can be a real issue with locs. Regular washing (every 2-3 weeks for me) with a clarifying shampoo, followed by a light conditioner (applied sparingly and rinsed thoroughly) and deep conditioning treatments every couple of months, kept my scalp healthy and my locs fresh. People often worry about washing locs, fearing they'll unravel, but it's essential for cleanliness and promoting healthy growth! Fast forward to the two-year mark, and my locs have grown so much, achieving a length and maturity I only dreamed of. They’ve become thicker, stronger, and have their own unique character. What surprised me most was how much my relationship with my hair changed. It's no longer just about a hairstyle; it's a reflection of patience, self-acceptance, and a commitment to a natural aesthetic. There's a real sense of accomplishment seeing how far they've come. I've learned a few key things I wish I knew when I started: Patience is paramount: Your locs will grow at their own pace. Don't compare your journey to others. Everyone's hair texture and growth rate are different. Moisture is non-negotiable: Keep your locs hydrated to prevent breakage. A consistent moisturizing routine will save you a lot of trouble. Scalp health matters: A healthy scalp promotes healthy growth. Don't neglect it! Massages, light oils, and regular cleaning are vital. Protect your locs at night: Sleeping with a satin bonnet or pillowcase is a game-changer for reducing frizz, lint, and maintaining moisture. Embrace the journey: Each phase has its beauty. Enjoy the transformation and the unique story your locs tell. Looking back, if I could give one piece of advice to anyone starting their dreads journey, it would be to trust the process. There will be good hair days and not-so-good hair days, but each one is a part of your unique story. My locs are more than just hair; they're a testament to growth, both literally and figuratively. I'm excited to see where the next few years take them!