Loc'd 4 Leisure

This post is all about a loc detox for locs.

The ease that locs bring is probably the number one reason why most people start them.

A quick mist, shake, and you’re out the door.

As easy as they are to take care of, it is even easier to forget that they can trap a lot of unwanted things inside of them.

Staying on top of your loc hygiene is a must and should be implemented into your daily/monthly routine.

In today’s post we’re going to talk all about the 5 signs that show it’s time for a loc detox, how to do a loc detox, and the best products to use for a loc detox.

This post is all about a loc detox for locs.

1. #1. White/Greyish Residue
2. #2. Smelly Locs
3. #3. One Year Loc’d Mark
4. #4. Lint Build Up
5. #5. Dandruff Build Up
6. Here’s How To Do A Loc Detox At Home
7. Instructions:

#1. White/Greyish Residue

It is normal to have a bit of build up that accumulates in your locs overtime. Your simple wash day should easily remove that gunk and you’re good to go. But once that build up starts to look like it’s apart of your hair color, that’s a problem.

Sometimes you won’t even be able to see the build up with a naked eye though. Try and squeeze your locs in a upward motion and if a bunch of white/greyish residue oozes out, that means the product(s) is deeply embedded and needs an extensive treatment to get it out.

Although any product can cause build up, the number one culprit is oil and the over use of it. Most people assume the more oil the better, but it’s actually causing more harm than you think.

Over-oiling your scalp can:

• Clog pores: Leading to scalp issues like dandruff or irritation.
• Increased Dirt Accumulation: Will attract more dirt, requiring more frequent washing.
• Unpleasant Odor: Can develop an unpleasant smell overtime.

It’s recommended that you oil your scalp 1-2 times a week and for more dry itchy scalps, 3 times a week max. This will ensure that you’re giving your scalp balance and time to breathe without clogging it with excessive product.

Related Blog Post: Here’s How To Make Your Retwist Last Longer

#2. Smelly Locs

Locs are structured in a way that makes it impossible to not trap odors, it kind of just happens. Besides product build up, there are several other reasons locs can become smelly.

Locs can accumulate odors by:

• Moisture Retention: If locs are not thoroughly dried, trapped moisture can lead to mildew and a foul smell.
• Sweat: If you work out consistently, sweat can overtime produce odor.
• Environmental Factors: Smoke, pollution, and debris can cling to locs.

The same way hair carries energy, they carry odors. Regularly taking a quick whiff of your locs will help you stay on top of any odd smells before anyone else does. To prevent odors, be sure to keep locs clean, dry, and consider using minimal lightweight products.

Quick product reccomendation:

Jamaican Mango and Lime Hair N Cense

#3. One Year Loc’d Mark

Once you hit your 1 year mark, it is time to schedule your first loc detox. Even if you feel as though you don’t need it, it is just for good measures. Getting a loc detox every year, or even twice, will help give your locs a fresh start each time.

Getting a loc detox every year will:

• Remove Product Buildup: Helps eliminate residue from products that can weigh down locs.
• Cleanses Scalp: Clears away dirt, sweat, and oils, promoting a healthier scalp.
• Improves Freshness: Help reduce odors trapped in the locs, leaving them smelling and feeling fresher.
• Enhances Appearance: Can make locs look cleaner, shinier, and healthier.
• Promotes Healthy Growth: Can create a better environment for hair growth.

Creating a yearly routine will keep your locs in tip top shape.

#4. Lint Build Up

Lint has to probably be the most annoying one of them all. Most times when you spot them, you can easily pull them out with tweezers and go about your day. But these little creatures can become so embedded into your locs, you’ll be forced to get a detox.

Ways to avoid lint is by:

Keep environment clean: Regularly clean your space to reduce dust and lint in the air.

Choose the Right Fabrics: Avoid towels and pillows made of cotton. Opt for fabrics like silk or satin.

Wear a Scarf or Bonnet: Cover your locs with a silk or satin scarf/bonnet to minimize friction and lint build up.

Although you can follow these tips to the T, you’ll still end up finding a lint ball somewhere in your locs. Just be sure to regularly examine your locs for any suspicious specks.

Recommended Youtube Video: REMOVING LINT + DETOX ON LOCS

#5. Dandruff Build Up

It is crucial for those with excessive dandruff to keep note of the build up that it causes. Dandruff build up normally lives right where the new growth and the start of the loc meets, leaving a white flaky cast.

To help stop the accumulation of this type of build up, regularly:

• Use Anti-Dandruff Shampoo: Look for shampoos containing zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, or salicylic acid.

• Moisturize: Use a lightweight oil, like tea tree oil, or scalp treatment to keep your scalp hydrated.
• Avoid Heavy Products: Limit the use of heavy products that can clog pores.
• Regular Washing: Maintain a regular washing schedule to prevent buildup.
• Exfoliate the Scalp: Consider scalp scrubs to help remove dead skin and product residue.

Be sure to consult with a dermatologist if at home treatments are not working.

Here’s How To Do A Loc Detox At Home

Ingredients/Tools:

• Baking Soda: Cleanses, exfoliates, odor neutralizing, and softens.

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Antimicrobial Properties, balances pH, cleanses, and stimulates circulation.

• Inflatable Shampoo Basin (optional): Can use large pot or large plastic container.

• Fine tooth comb

Quick note: There are other ingredients you can use such as essential oils, lemon juice, and even aloe vera gel, but these are just the basics of what most people already have on hand!

Instructions:

1. Open up root of locs by untwisting them completely. This will allow the mixture to enter the loc fully.
2. Dust out any visible flakes, build up, etc to make detox easier to cleanse.
3. Apply baking soda throughout scalp first, then follow up with ACV. Repeat until fully coated.
4. Sit for 30-45 minutes. Can cover locs with cap.
5. Once finished, thoroughly wash locs with clarifying shampoo then follow up with hydrating shampoo to replace natural oils.
6. Spritz hair with your favorite water mixture (water, essential oils, leave in conditioner, etc) or rose water to hydrate locs.
7. Apply a light oil to scalp and gently massage.

And you’re done! You have successfully given yourself a loc detox!

Your loc hygiene is just as important as your body. Keeping note of these 5 unpleasant signs will ensure you will continue to grow healthy luxurious locs!

This post is all about a loc detox for locs.

FREE STARTER LOC GUIDE

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What’s Included:

• Free Guide
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