Must-Have Products & Tools for the Newly Locked
If you've recently started your microlocs or Sisterlocks journey and are searching for the right products to maintain your new style, you're in the right place. We've put together a list of must-haves to help you care for your microlocs without becoming a product junk. For more product recommendations, be sure to visit Oma's Beauty Bar.
Cleansing or Clarifying Shampoo
Healthy hair begins with a clean scalp. A clarifying or cleansing shampoo will remove dirt, excess oil, product buildup, and other impurities from your hair and scalp. A residue-free cleansing or clarifying shampoo is a must for maintaining fresh, lightweight locs. Avoid shampoos with heavy conditioners, silicones, or oils that can cause buildup and slow down the locking process. Instead, opt for a sulfate-free clarifying shampoo that effectively removes dirt, sweat, and product residue without over-drying your hair.
2. Spray Bottle
Hydration is key to keeping your microlocs soft and healthy, and a spray bottle makes it easy to refresh your locs daily. Fill it with distilled water or a light misting solution to keep your hair moisturized without oversaturating it. A continuous mist spray bottle is a great option for even distribution. It’s nice to keep a spray bottle on hand to spritz your hair as needed with your personalized mixtures or to dilute your shampoo while washing your hair.
3. Rose Water / Water
Rose water is a great for microlocs, offering lightweight hydration while soothing the scalp. Rose water has hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties. Incorporating rose water into your hair car routine can help promote healthier, more hydrated hair and scalp, while also providing a delightful fragrance. You can use it alone or mix it with essential oils for added benefits. If you don’t like rose water, you can also use regular water.
4. Essential Oils
Essential oils like lavender, tea tree, peppermint, and rosemary provide nourishment for your scalp and promote healthy hair growth. They provide different benefits for hair car, including stimulating hair growth, moisturizing and conditioning, reducing dandruff and scalp issues, improving scalp health, enhancing shine and strength, and natural fragrance. Add a few drops to your rose water spray or apply diluted oils directly to your scalp to combat dryness and irritation. Be sure to use them sparingly to avoid buildup.
5. Satin / Silk Bonnet or Pillowcase
Protecting your hair while you sleep by wearing a satin / silk bonnet or scarf over your hair at night can help promote healthier hair by reducing friction, preserving moisture, and protecting your hairstyle. A satin or silk bonnet (or a pillowcase if you prefer not to cover your hair) helps prevent breakage, frizz, and excessive lint buildup.
6. Rubber Bands
Rubber bands are handy for securing the ends of your microlocs during the early locking stages, especially if your hair unravels easily. They’re also useful for banding your hair before washing to minimize frizz and prevent loc slippage. Just be sure to remove them gently to avoid breakage.
7. Satin / Silk Scrunchies
Unlike traditional hair ties, satin or silk scrunchies provide a gentle hold without causing tension or breakage. Whether you’re styling your locs in a ponytail, bun, or updo, these scrunchies help maintain your locs’ health while keeping them secure. Using a stain or silk scrunchie can help reduce friction, retain moisture, prevent snagging, minimize creasing, and adds a soft stylish touch.
8. Crochet Hook / Loc Tool
As your locs mature, you may want to tighten your roots in between retightening appointments. A small crochet hook or loc tool is great for maintenance and can help keep your locs looking neat and uniform. If you plan to do DIY retightenings, be sure to learn the proper technique to avoid over-tightening.
9. Hair Accessories
One of the best parts of having microlocs is the styling versatility. Accessories such as headbands, pins, beads, and loc sprinkles are an easy way to add some extra sparkle to your microlocs with low effort.
10. Patience
Above all, patience is the most important thing to have on your microlocs journey. Your locs will go through different phases, from budding to full maturation, and each stage requires care and time. Trust the process, embrace the changes, and enjoy the journey. Your microlocs will flourish with consistency and love.
What are your go-to microlocs must-haves? Share in the comments below!
