There are plenty of ways to help yourself advance forward when it comes to growing your locs out. This includes focusing on scalp care through massages and moisturizing, along with regular washing and conditioning. Within that, you want to make sure that your dread style is minimally manipulative.
Whether you’re just starting out on your loc journey or simply want to earn some length, here are five of the best dread styles to grow your locs out.
Starter Locs (Twist or Braid Method)
This is one of the most common methods for starting locs. In this style, your hair is either two-strand twisted or braided to begin the loc process. The twist method is more commonly used, as it’s gentle on the scalp and allows your hair to begin forming locs in a controlled way. Starter locs give you a structured foundation that will gradually mature into fully-formed locs over time. These are perfect for those who want a clear, defined loc pattern right from the beginning.
Freeform Locs
Freeform locs are all about letting your hair grow naturally without too much manipulation. There’s no specific parting or styling. You simply allow your hair to grow and mature into locs on its own, creating a unique, organic look. People often see freeform locs as more spiritual or cultural. It’s a great way to embrace the natural texture and curl of your hair. This method requires patience, as it can take longer for the locs to form, but it results in a more individual and natural appearance.
Interlocked Locs
Interlocking involves using a special tool to weave the ends of your locs through the base of the root, helping to lock the hair. This method helps maintain the neatness and structure of your locs and is great for those who want to avoid the frizzier, less controlled look of freeform locs. Interlocked locs grow well and stay neat longer, and they’re ideal for those with textured hair who want a low-maintenance, polished style while their locs grow out.
Palm-Rolled Locs
Palm-rolling is a technique where you or a hairstylist twists the loc between the palms. This method helps it form and lock in place. It is often used to maintain neatness after the locs are established. It’s a great option for those with looser curl patterns who want defined, well-formed locs. Palm-rolling helps smooth the locs down, reducing frizz and giving them a more uniform appearance. It also speeds up the locking process, which can be helpful during the early stages of growing your locs.
Coiled Locs
Coiling is a technique where you or a locitian twists each section of hair into a coil using a comb or fingers. It’s a popular method for creating neat, defined locs from the start. Coiled locs can be easy to maintain, and they generally form quicker than other styles because the coils allow the hair to mat and lock more readily. As your locs grow, coiled hair tends to look clean and structured, making it a great choice for someone who wants a more defined, polished look while their locs mature.