Hair Starter Locs 101: Methods, Timeline & What to Expect
Thinking about starting your loc journey? You’re not alone. More and more people are choosing hair starter locs to embrace their natural texture while protecting their strands. But if you’re new to this process, it’s totally normal to have questions. How do you start? How long does it take? What should you expect? At Lucky Hair Braiding and Locs, we’ve helped thousands of clients across Aurora and the Denver Metro area start and maintain beautiful, healthy locs. Whether you’re going for traditional locs, Sisterlocks, or a customized look, this guide will walk you through the basics.
What Are Starter Locs?
Starter locs, also called baby locs, are the very first phase in your loc journey. They’re the foundation for mature, fully-formed locs and can be created in several ways, depending on your hair type, length, and personal preference. Locs for beginners typically take 6 to 24 months to mature. That may sound like a long time, but trust—it’s worth the wait.
Most Popular Starter Loc Methods
At Lucky Locs, we offer a variety of techniques to start your locs, and each one comes with its own vibe.
1. Two-Strand Twists
Perfect for medium to long natural hair, this method uses two strands twisted together to form the base. It’s one of the easiest to start and works well for thick or coily textures.
2. Coil Method
Using a rat-tail comb, your stylist creates tight coils that spiral into the hair’s natural curl pattern. Coils are great for short hair and help locs form quicker for certain textures.
3. Braids (Plaits)
If you’re super active or have loose curls, braids give more structure and stay in place. However, braid patterns may take a bit longer to disappear as your locs mature.
4. Interlocking
This technique pulls the end of your hair through the root to “lock” the hair in place. It’s ideal for those with finer textures or who want less frequent maintenance.
5. Sisterlocks
These are tiny, uniform locs created using a patented technique. They require a consultation first and need to be installed by a trained stylist (yes, we offer it!). Great for those wanting a more flexible and lightweight look.
Your Starter Loc Timeline: What to Expect
Everyone’s journey is different, but here’s a rough breakdown of how your hair starter locs will progress.
1–3 Months: The Baby Phase
Your locs are fresh, soft, and likely to unravel a bit—especially after washing. Be gentle with them, avoid excessive manipulation, and come in for retwists as needed.
3–6 Months: Budding Begins
You’ll notice some puffiness or frizz—this is good! Budding is the process of your hair tangling and locking within itself. Your locs will start to swell slightly.
6–12 Months: Teenage Locs
Your hair may feel wild and unpredictable during this time. Some sections may lock faster than others. Stay patient—it’s all part of the process.
12–24 Months: Maturity
Your locs become stronger and more uniform. You’ll need fewer retwists, and they’ll start to hang and flow naturally.
How to Care for Starter Locs
To make the most of your loc journey, you’ll want to stick to a simple but solid routine.
- Keep your scalp clean. Use a light, residue-free shampoo. No harsh scrubbing!
- Don’t over-moisturize. A little natural oil or aloe goes a long way.
- Sleep with protection. A satin scarf or bonnet helps reduce frizz and breakage.
- Avoid over-manipulating. Let your locs do their thing.
And remember: maintenance is key. Regular retwists help shape your locs and keep them looking neat. At Lucky Hair Braiding and Locs, we’ll schedule follow-up appointments to make sure you stay on track.
What Makes Lucky Hair Braiding and Locs Different?
With over 20 years of experience, our team doesn’t just “do hair”—we care for it. From your first consultation to your final mature locs, we guide you through every step with honesty and skill. Our stylists are trained in all major starter methods and provide professional insights based on your hair type, lifestyle, and goals. Don’t forget: all new loc installations require an in-person consultation. No consultation, no appointment—we mean it! That’s how we ensure you get the right technique and care plan. We’re open Monday to Saturday, 7 AM to 4 PM, and we book new installs Monday through Wednesday only. Spots fill fast, so get in early!
FAQs
Q: How long does it take to install starter locs? A: It depends on the method and your hair length, but most installs take 3 to 8 hours. Q: Can I wash my hair with starter locs? A: Yes, but use a gentle shampoo and avoid heavy rubbing for the first few months. Q: Do starter locs hurt? A: Not at all. You might feel a little tension if your scalp is sensitive, but the process should be comfortable.
Ready to Start Your Loc Journey?
Book your consultation with Lucky Hair Braiding and Locs today. Our stylists are here to help you embrace your natural beauty with clean, stylish, and lasting results.