When it comes to my hair, I have been doing it on my own for so long that it’s hard for me to trust others with it.
I have high-density hair, and thick coarse strands that require patience… and let’s be honest, not everyone has that patience.
Starting my own locs was the best decision for me because I knew my hair so well and I knew exactly what I wanted, and how I wanted it. This might be the case for you as well.
What are microlocks?
Microlocks are literally Micro LOCS, aka small locs. Period. Microlocks are not to be confused with traditional locs which have a diameter that is similar to a pencil or sisterlocks which are a brand of microlocks. Often I get asked the question, what is the difference between microlocks and sisterlocks, so if you are curious about the difference, stick around because I will be posting about that soon.
What are the various locking methods for starting microlocks/micro locs?
- Interlocks – a method of interweaving from the root using a crochet tool, maintained via interlocking
- Two strand twist – a method that divides the hair into two sections, and the pieces alternate in twirling around each other. Maintained via interlocking.
- Comb coils (this is less common for microlocks, but think of Duchess from the show Black Ink Crew) – started using a rat tailed comb, and maintained primarily via palm rolling
Do you have the experience or confidence in your abilities with your own hair?
You will need to answer these questions honestly:
Are you experienced in parting your own hair?
Parting other people’s hair is quite different from parting your own hair. Make sure you have some experience in this arena beforehand. It doesn’t need to be extensive, but it should be enough to give you the confidence to make lines/parts that are relatively straight and not extremely slanted or crooked, etc. Basically, you need to know your way around your own head.
Do you have the patience to do this well?
Depending on the length and density of your hair, this process may take you multiple days. This is because (on average) in order to have small locs or microlocks, you will likely have over 300 locs on your head.
Are you meticulous?
This is important because carefulness and neatness will help your locs thrive in the long run. Locs do not need to be “perfect”, but if you want small locs, they will need a strong foundation and consistency throughout each loc.
What grid pattern would you want?
Choose a grid pattern to follow. Something that shows size/shape consistency is sufficient. This means you could do diamond parting, square or even rectangle shapes for your parting system. It just needs to have consistency.
If you are unsure of your confidence level, consider doing a few sample locs on your head, and watch them over time to see if you like your own work.
What is the best maintenance method for your lifestyle?
Will you maintain them yourself? Or will you start your locs and seek a loctician to maintain them? If you want a loctician maintaining them for you, make sure you research locticians in your area for availability. Locs are a long-term commitment so whatever you decide, make sure you feel comfortable with the method.
When it comes to DIY microlocks or doing your own locs, there are many factors to consider. I hope these questions will help you with your decision. Ultimately, you want to make the decision that is best for you. DIY micro locs could be a great option to begin your loc journey if you enjoy doing your own hair, and would like to save money.
Have you been thinking about starting your microlocks for a while? Let me know your thoughts.