Tag: dreadlocs

It’s been six weeks since my last interlocking session, and I just had my scheduled retwist done by my loctician. This time, the difference in growth and thickness is even more noticeable. My locs are maturing well, and the progress is becoming more defined with each session.

Growth and Thickening Since My Last Retwist

Looking at my before-and-after photos, the growth is clear. My roots had grown out quite a bit since my last session, and my locs are becoming noticeably thicker. The interlocking from my previous maintenance session helped maintain the foundation, and now, with the new growth, my locs feel fuller and healthier.

The Retwist Process with My Loctician

This time, my loctician used the comb-coiling method for my retwist, which gives my roots a neat and polished look. Here’s how the process went:

• Pre-Retwist Photos: Unlike last time, I made sure to take pictures just before my appointment for a better comparison.
• Hydration First: Before the retwist, my loctician ensured my hair was properly moisturized to keep my locs from becoming dry.
• Comb-Coiling for a Secure Hold: Instead of palm rolling, my loctician used comb-coiling, which tightly defines the new growth while keeping the locs structured.
• Setting the Locs in Place: After the retwist, my locs were set to hold the shape, and I wore my durag afterward to protect the fresh style.

How My Locs Are Progressing

This session made me realize how much my locs have developed. They are growing in well, looking fuller, and feeling more established. The switch between interlocking and retwisting has worked well for me, as it keeps my roots structured while allowing my locs to maintain their natural thickness.

Looking Ahead

For now, I’ll continue my usual routine—hydrating my locs daily, sleeping with a durag, and allowing my locs to settle in before the next session. I’ll also monitor how this retwist holds up over the coming weeks and decide when my next maintenance session should be.

If you’ve been following along, check out my Interlocking Retwist Update to compare how my locs looked six weeks ago. The transformation has been gradual, but every session brings noticeable progress.

How’s your loc journey going? Let me know in the comments! Thanks for reading, and I’ll be back with more updates soon.

When starting a loc journey, one of the most important decisions is choosing a maintenance method. Two of the most common techniques are interlocking and palm rolling. Each method has its advantages and drawbacks, so choosing the right one depends on your hair type, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

This article will break down the key differences between interlocking and palm rolling. If you’re new to my loc journey, check out my Five-Week Loc Update, where I shared my first retwist experience before switching to interlocking.

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What Is Interlocking?

Interlocking is a technique where the tip of the loc is threaded through the root using a tool or by hand. This method tightens new growth by creating a knot-like structure, keeping the loc secure.

Pros of Interlocking

? Lasts Longer: This method holds for 6-8 weeks, unlike palm rolling, which requires more frequent maintenance.
? Reduces Frizz and Unraveling: It works well for softer hair textures that tend to loosen easily.
? Water-Resistant: Since interlocked locs don’t unravel as quickly, they withstand washing better.
? Great for Active Lifestyles: If you work out, swim, or sweat often, interlocking keeps locs intact for longer.

Cons of Interlocking

? Can Cause Thinning: Overdoing it weakens the roots and may lead to breakage.
? Takes More Time: The process is longer compared to palm rolling, especially for thick hair.
? Requires Skill: Improper technique can damage locs, so some people prefer a loctician.

Curious about my first interlocking experience? Check out my Interlocking Retwist Update to see before-and-after results and my thoughts on the process.

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What Is Palm Rolling?

Palm rolling is a simpler technique where you roll the loc between your palms to tighten and smooth out new growth. It helps maintain the natural twist of the hair.

Pros of Palm Rolling

? Easy to Do: No special tools are needed, making it ideal for beginners.
? Gentler on the Scalp: Unlike interlocking, it puts less tension on the roots.
? Creates a Smooth Look: Palm rolling tames loose hairs and helps locs look uniform.
? Allows for Thicker Locs: Since it doesn’t compress the roots as much, locs can grow thicker over time.

Cons of Palm Rolling

? Needs Frequent Maintenance: Typically, palm rolling must be redone every 2-4 weeks.
? More Prone to Unraveling: If you have a looser curl pattern, locs may come undone between washes.
? Not Water-Resistant: Washing soon after palm rolling can loosen the new growth.

Wondering how to wash locs without unravelling? Check out my First Wash After Retwist Post for tips on keeping starter locs intact.

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Which Method Is Right for You?

Choose Interlocking If:

? You want a longer-lasting method (4-8 weeks).
? Your hair has a looser curl pattern.
? You need a method that withstands frequent washing and sweating.
? You prefer a neater, more structured appearance.

Choose Palm Rolling If:

? You want a thicker, fuller loc appearance.
? You prefer a gentle method that doesn’t stress the scalp.
? You don’t mind retwisting more often (every 2-4 weeks).
? You’re in the early loc stage and want a smooth look.

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Final Thoughts

Both interlocking and palm rolling are effective but serve different needs. Interlocking lasts longer and works well for active lifestyles, while palm rolling creates thicker, softer locs.

Choosing the right method depends on your hair type, maintenance routine, and desired look. Regardless of the approach, consistency is key to keeping locs healthy.

If you’re following my journey, be sure to check out my Five-Week Loc Update and Interlocking Retwist Post for more insights.

Which method do you prefer? Let me know in the comments!

I’ve just completed my first interlocking, marking another step forward in my loc journey. While the growth isn’t dramatic, I can definitely see progress. It’s exciting to watch my locs gradually take shape, and this new method is helping to create a more structured look.

What Interlocking Means for My Locs

Unlike palm rolling, interlocking involves threading the loc through the root, which helps create a more secure and long-lasting hold. Since my locs are still maturing, this method should help them stay intact for longer between maintenance sessions. Although the process took some time, the results make it worthwhile. My roots feel tighter, and my locs look neater than before.

Subtle Growth and Progress

Looking at the before-and-after photos, there’s noticeable growth, even if it’s not extreme. These small changes remind me that this journey is all about patience and celebrating every stage, no matter how subtle the progress may seem. The locs are budding more now, and the overall shape is beginning to feel more defined.

Maintenance After Interlocking

Following the retwist, I’ve kept up with my usual maintenance routine:

• Daily Moisture: I continue to spray my locs with my essential oil and water mix morning and night to keep them hydrated.
• Durag at Night: Sleeping with a durag protects my hair from friction and helps maintain the interlocking results.

Looking Ahead

After my first retwist, I’ve finally done my first wash—and it was a learning experience worth sharing. Washing starter locs in their early stages can feel a little nerve-wracking, but with the right steps, it went smoothly, and I’m happy with the results.

How I Washed My Starter Locs

Washing starter locs requires extra care to avoid unraveling, especially after a fresh retwist. Here’s how I approached it:

• Stocking Cap Protection: I wore a stocking cap during the wash to keep my locs secure and minimize unraveling at the ends. This allowed me to clean my scalp thoroughly while protecting the locs themselves.
• Gentle Shampoo: Using a residue-free shampoo, I focused on cleansing my scalp while gently pressing the product through the locs.

Post-Wash Care: Moisture and Drying

After the wash, I followed my usual maintenance routine to keep my locs hydrated and neat:

1. Essential Oils Application: I applied my go-to mixture of essential oils to my hair and scalp for moisture and nourishment. This step keeps dryness at bay and supports healthy loc growth.
2. Cool Blow Dry: While wearing a durag, I used a cool blow dry to dry my locs. This helped prevent frizz and kept everything in place.

Before and After: The Results

The before-and-after photos speak for themselves. The wash not only refreshed my hair but also left it feeling cleaner and lighter without compromising the integrity of the retwist.

Reflections on the First Wash

This experience has reassured me that with the right techniques, washing starter locs can be manageable and effective. It’s all about being gentle and intentional.

What’s Next?

I’ll continue my routine and prepare for my next appointment, where I’ll start interlocking. Until then, it’s all about staying consistent and letting the process unfold.

If you’re at a similar stage or have questions about washing starter locs, feel free to share in the comments—I’d love to connect and learn from your experiences too.

Thanks for following along, and I’ll be back soon with more updates!