What to do in between retwisting your locs PT 2

In pt 1 I discussed a few tips on taking care of your locs right after a fresh retwist. Here in pt 2, I’ll discuss how to maintain your locs when you’re ready to take down your style or your retwist is starting to “look old”.

• SHAMPOO YOUR HAIR. Water is the BEST locking agent. *See bonus for starter loc info & shampoo suggestions*

• Embrace your natural hair. After shampooing your locs after your retwist and style, you may be uncomfortable with how “untamed” your hair looks. It’s ok. This is the “journey” part of the loc journey. Embrace your hair texture, frizz, and natural state. This is one of my favorite things about having locs 💚

• Intensely moisturize. This is a great time to practice your moisturizing routine. During this time I usually mist my hair with water and then apply my favorite oils daily to every three days: black castor oil, rosemary oil, and grape seed oil are my faves. A little goes a long way.

• Try different styles! Locs are versatile. What “no retwist” style have you been wanting to try? Space buns, messy buns, claw clips— maybe you wanted to try a wrap style with your favorite scarf. The sky is the limit here.

• Avoid unnecessary products. Stay away from heavy creams, waxes, gels, and edge controls. Products build up the fastest when your hair is unraveled.

Bonus:

*I recommend shampooing at least every 2 weeks. Your lifestyle, natural oil production, and hair density play a major role in your hair’s shampoo schedule, so 2weeks is a general suggestion.

*Use a stocking cap when shampooing starter locs.

*Use a clarifying shampoo to reduce buildup. Anything with mint: tea tree, eucalyptus, peppermint, etc, are great for detoxing.

*Follow up with a moisturizing shampoo to restore your hair’s moisture.

*Skipping conditioning leaves your hair stripped of all-natural oils, dry, and bitter. CONDITION YOUR LOCS.

*Covering your hair at night with satin or silk material helps with frizz control and lint buildup.

*When styling your locs, the less tension the better. If it’s pulling, there’s tension.

*Oil-based products are best for natural breakdown in locs.

Save this post for later!

#loctips #locmethod #healthylocs #locroutine #lemon8locdiary

2025/2/27 Edited to

... Read moreOkay, so you've nailed the post-retwist care, but what about those tricky moments, especially washing without undoing everything, or finding new styles when your locs are in that 'in-between' phase? I've been there, and I’ve got some extra tips that have truly saved my loc journey! First, let's tackle the big one: washing your locs without messing up a fresh retwist. This is a game-changer for me. When my retwist is still looking neat, I don't go for a full-on loc wash. Instead, I focus on my scalp. I dilute my clarifying shampoo (the tea tree or peppermint kind is perfect for a deep clean!) in an applicator bottle with water. Then, I carefully apply it only to my scalp, section by section. I gently massage my scalp with my fingertips – no nails! – to lift any buildup. I let the suds run down the length of my locs as I rinse, but I try my best not to agitate the locs themselves. Using a stocking cap during this process, as mentioned, is brilliant for keeping those new growth sections from unraveling. This method helps me keep my scalp fresh without sacrificing my retwist too soon. Next, about those 'dread styles' and protective options! While space buns and messy buns are classics, sometimes you want something different. I love experimenting with simple two-strand twists on my locs. You can twist sections of your locs together for a textured look that holds well, especially when your new growth is showing. Braiding sections of your locs can also create beautiful patterns and keep them neatly tucked away. Don't forget the power of accessories! Scarves, headbands, and even decorative clips can transform an 'old' retwist into a chic style. I often use a wide, stretchy headband to gather my locs into a high puff, which looks polished and keeps them off my neck. These are all fantastic upkeep tips you can easily do at home. Let's talk about the 'before' in 'before and after retwist'. Preparing your locs before your next retwist can make a huge difference in how long your fresh retwist lasts and how healthy your locs stay. A few days before my appointment, I'll do a gentle pre-poo treatment with a light oil (like jojoba or sweet almond) on my scalp and locs to help loosen any buildup and add moisture. I also make sure my hair is thoroughly clean, usually with a clarifying wash followed by a moisturizing one. This gives my loctician a clean canvas to work with and ensures my locs are properly hydrated, which helps them hold the retwist better. Finally, for general loc maintenance and upkeep tips for your daily routine, think about your lifestyle. If you work out frequently, consider a light rosewater spray after your session to rehydrate and refresh, then make sure your locs are fully dry before covering them. And remember, consistency is key with moisturizing! I swear by my daily or every-other-day mist of water followed by a light oil blend. It makes all the difference in keeping my locs soft, supple, and less prone to breakage. These simple at home practices are truly what make my loc journey so enjoyable and keep my locs looking their best!

27 comments

Gretchen Lawson's images
Gretchen Lawson

what are some shampoos that are good for locs

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C M T

What is a stocking cap?

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