Locs 101 | Simply the best: tips and tricks for your locs
by Gail Mitchell
What’s the best things to do for your locs? Loc’d Life sat down with Nate Mitchell (aka: Djnatedaphatbarber, barber, DJ, and loc stylist) in Philadelphia to see what things you can do to get the best from your locs.
- Twist your hair wet when doing your loc grooming. It dries into place.
- Use shea butter. It’s good for hold and healthier for your hair. He’s not a fan of beeswax. “It’s heavy, collects lint and dust out the air,” says Mitchell. “Your locs get powdery and collect a film. Beeswax is hard to wash out. In my experience it took washing locs 3-4 times to get it out. Shea butter has no buildup, and it’s good for skin, hair and everything.”
- Stay away from petroleum. “Petroleum clogs the pores and it doesn’t fill the purpose of moisturizing.”
- Need moisture? Try extra virgin olive oil. “Get it straight off the grocery shelf. You can try hot oil treatments or mix it with essential oils for everyday maintenance.”
- Are tingling shampoos better for your locs? “They’re good for a dry scalp. A medicated shampoo will help. Use it as needed.”
- Looking for styles that men can wear? “I’ve seen a lot of locs in cornrow styles. In general, men don’t feel confident in wearing other styles other than ponytails.”
- Just starting out? Mitchell says starting with the right method to match your hair texture helps out. “In this stage, there definitely is an ‘ugly’ phase. You have to game up in other areas. Try hats and accessories. You’re going to have bad hair moments, and you’ll want to cut it. You’ll really have to accentuate the other parts of your situation.”
- One final tip: patience. “Be patient with the process. It’s trying at times, but the reward is great towards the end.”