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Whether you’re years into yourloc journeyor are just getting started, the right hair products are essential.
Byrdie / Jaclyn Mastropasqua
“Locs require maintenance like any other style,” says natural haircare specialist and salon ownerJamila Powell.
“You want to keep them clean and free of product buildup.”
Need something forcleansing or scalp care?
PHOTO: Amazon
Trying to prevent your locs from unlocking?
Thinking about getting dreadlocks (perhapssisterlocks, locs as thin asmicrobraids)?
There’s a product for that.
PHOTO: Sisterlocks
Here are the 11 we recommend for keeping your locs and dreadlocks looking snatched.
It also detangles and puts the spring back into curls.
However, a conditioner like this one can be a great choice for settled or color-treated locs.
PHOTO: Amazon
Use it periodically as a deep treatment to restore moisture under a hooded dryer or heat cap.
We do wish it was easier to open in the shower (squeeze bottle, kindly).
Locsanity Refreshing Spray works wonders when it comes to adding softness without leaving a build-up.
PHOTO: Dr. Locs
Tasia Hawkins has used it during each stage of her locs journey.
“I knew if I washed them too much, it would slow down the process.
“The all-natural oil blend smells amazing and keeps my locs loose, hydrated, and moisturized.”
PHOTO: Itâs Natural
Use it sparingly as it can make your hair feel heavy if you use too much.
She uses the conditioner often.
This leave-in conditioner is perfect for replenishing lost moisture, and it won’t leave a residue.
PHOTO: Walmart
The alcohol-free formula is also a favorite among natural hair stylists for its earth-sourced ingredients and long-lasting results.
It delivers reliable hold, moisture, and shine without the buildup often associated with holding creams and gels.
That said, it can flake, so use it sparingly to avoid that.
PHOTO: Amazon
This long-lasting hold cream is great for starter locs and retwisting.
It helps hair retain moisture without buildup.
She likes to create her own concoctions and always comes back to pure essential oils.
PHOTO: Bed Bath and Beyond
“I love rosemary oil for growthand sweet almond oil for reducing dryness.”
You just don’t want to put it directly onto open cuts or broken skin as it can sting.
This multipurpose soap is typically associated with body cleansing, but it truly does it all.
PHOTO: Amazon
Linda Elaine, who regularly uses this product and swears by it, says it promotes squeaky-clean locs.
you’ve got the option to’t beat that.
This multi-use cleanser can be used to gently clarify dreadlocks or as a head-to-toe body wash.
PHOTO: Sea Breeze
However, if you’re sensitive to peppermint, this wash may be too strong for you.
We love that it’s all-natural but still incredibly effective.
Ninalocs, who regularly uses this product, says it’s her favorite.
PHOTO: Walmart
“It’s so important to retwist with products that wash out clean.
The only gripe we noticed was the hold could be better.
This lightweight, single-ingredient gel delivers enough hold for retwists and washes out clean.
“But I also use Sea Breeze via a spray bottle to help my scalp.”
A classic choice for locs, this astringent fluid is great for clarifying and promoting scalp health.
It does contain alcohol, though, so it might be too much for sensitive skin.
These oversized hair ties hold locs in place without snagging or breaking apart.
Everyone’s locs journey is different, as are their individual hair needs.
Loc maintenance will depend greatly on where you are inyour dreadlock journey.
By the two-year mark, however, you’ll be able to streamline things.
Consider visiting a pro loctician, who can help you come up with a personalized care routine.
She’s been contributing to Byrdie since 2020, covering natural haircare, makeup, and skincare.
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