The post is all bout the “ugly phase” of locs.
First off, there’s no such thing as an “ugly phase” of locs. Now rough phase…maybe.
When I first started my locs, it definitely took me some time to get used to the change.
During this time you may not feel as confident as you were before and you might want to hide until you feel like yourself again, but that’s a no no.
This time is crucial in building self confidence and will help you grow into a person you didn’t know lived inside of you before.
To make this time a little less daunting and more freeing, here’s a few things I practiced that I know will help you in this new world of locs.
This post will talk all about the different phases of locs, the “ugly phase” of locs, and how to get through them effortlessly.
The post is all bout the “ugly phase” of locs.
- Document Your Journey.
- So when you ever feel uneasy about this journey of locs, understand that you are beautiful no matter what phase you are in, and most importantly, indulge in the leisure they give.
Embrace Them.
For starters, learn to embrace the change. This is a huge commitment and you already made the first move. That’s huge! Understand that locs are a totally different ball game than what you were used to before. Meaning you have to come to terms with shrinkage, frizziness, and awkward looks from peers. But know that this is only phase 1 and what you are feeling now will be different a few months down the line. So give yourself time to settle in and remember that this is only the beginning of a beautiful life long journey.
Related Blog Post: Learn To Love Your Untamed Locs
Accessorize! Accessorize! Accessorize!
I can’t stress this enough—you have to make the most of this time by adding what makes you feel your most confident. Scarfs, loc jewelry, hoop earrings, and cute scrunchies will be your best friend throughout this time. Even doing your makeup will boost that self esteem and remind yourself that you are still that girl (or boy we don’t discriminate). It is easy to fall victim to wanting to cover up your starter locs until you are confident, like for example wearing faux locs on top of locs. These type of “protective styles” will not only damage your new starter locs, but will cause issues later on down the line that will cost you to repair. So I guess you can say being confident during this time will be your best bet for the health of your hair and to save you a coin. The possibilities are endless with your starter locs, so get creative and have fun with it.
Check out my starter loc Youtube playlist filled with loc updates, styles, and more!
Document Your Journey.
The power in capturing moments is one you should never take for granted. To be able to look back and see growth is bittersweet and brings a special type of gratitude out of you. Throughout this time you will be able to visibly see the stages of locs you go through each time you enter them.
The phases of locs are:
- Starter or Baby stage (0-6 months)
- Freshly started locs, using either 2 strand twists, coils, or braids. They might look uneven and may not yet have a defined shape.
- Budding or Teen stage (6-12 months)
- Locs start to form into more cylinder shape but are still relatively immature. Frizziness is more profound and inconsistent in thickness.
- Mature (12-18 months)
- Locs are more defined and have a more uniform appearance. They may still have some frizz but will begin to show a more solid and cylindrical shape.
- Rooted (18 months – 2 years and beyond)
- Locs are fully formed, with a well-defined shape. They are typically more uniform and less frizzy, with a more polished look.
Throughout these stages, every little change varies based on hair type, the method used to start locs, and individual hair growth patterns. Patience and consistent care are key to achieving healthy and well-formed locs.
Quick backstory..
I remember when I randomly made my loc page on Instagram back in 2020 when I first started my locs. It has taken me places I never even imagined, but besides the accolades, I was able to be a source of relatability for other fellow loc newbies in the community and vice versa.
I was able to follow along with other peoples journey and take note of how their locs were looking at a certain month to help guide me in mine. Although all journeys are different, being able to look over and see someone in the same boat as you brings a sense of peace.
Having documentation to look back on will help encourage you to keep going in this journey you have embarked on.
Ignore The Outside Noise.
Be prepared to run into people who will have their opinions on your hair (weird right?). To start locs you have to have a certain type of confidence, especially in today’s world. Everything now is all about things appearing flawless and put together 24/7, but that’s just not reality. However you decide to rock your locs is entirely up to you; freeform, frizzy edges, or no retwist at all, it’s your hair and you can do whatever you want to do. Don’t internalize the naysayers opinions, you know your why for starting your locs and that’s something you don’t have nor need to explain. Once your locs hit a certain length they’re going to want to join the bandwagon anyways so just keep doing you!
Indulge In The Leisure They Give.
9/10 when you ask someone why they started their locs, it’s because they were tired of dealing with their hair, that was me 100%, hence “loc’d 4 leisure“. Locs provide so much ease to your life it makes you wonder why you didn’t start them earlier. During this time, lean on the fact that you now have the ability to get up and go as you please. All you have to worry about now is keeping them healthy and hydrated.
Although they provide so much ease, your locs is also a teacher to your everyday life. It takes you out your comfort zone and forces you to look within. It helps you learn the true essence of beauty and builds a confidence like no other. You’ll look back in a couple months from now and be grateful for the leap of faith you took to join this beautiful, raw, and fearless community.
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