The Lexicon.
Speak the language. Whether you're a starter or a veteran, understanding these terms is key to maintaining healthy locs.
ACV Rinse
Apple Cider Vinegar rinse. A deep cleansing method using ACV and baking soda to strip deep-seated residue, lint, and buildup from inside the loc matrix.
Budding
The stage where hair begins to mat and form internal knots. Usually occurs 3-6 months into the journey. The loc will feel puffy and frizzy.
Build-up
Accumulation of product, dirt, lint, or dead skin cells inside the loc. Often caused by heavy waxes (beeswax) or not rinsing shampoo thoroughly.
Clarifying Shampoo
A deep-cleaning shampoo designed to strip away product buildup, oil, and pollutants. Essential for locs to prevent 'loc rot' and heavy residue.
Comb Coils
A starter method created by spinning small sections of wet hair with a rat-tail comb. Creates uniform, cylindrical starter locs.
Crotchet Hook
A tool used for 'Instant Locs' or maintenance. It pulls loose hairs into the center of the loc to tighten the matrix instantly.
Freeform
A method of starting locs where hair is allowed to mat naturally without manipulation, retwisting, or interlocking.
High Top Locs
A style where locs are only grown on the top of the head, with the sides and back faded or shaved.
Interlocking
A maintenance method where the end of the loc is pulled through the root to tighten new growth. Creates a strong, knotted structure.
Loc Jewelry
Decorative beads, cuffs, or wire wraps added to locs for style. Should be removed occasionally to prevent damage or buildup underneath.
Loc Rot
Mold or mildew growing inside a loc due to moisture being trapped. Often caused by using heavy waxes that don't wash out or not drying hair completely.
Loctician
A hair stylist who specializes in the cultivation, maintenance, and styling of dreadlocks.
Mature Stage
The final stage of locking where the hair is fully matted, dense, and uniform. The locs are solid and no longer unravel when washed.
Micro Locs
Very small, thin locs (smaller than traditional locs but larger than Sisterlocks). Allows for high versatility and fullness.
Palm Rolling
A maintenance technique where the loc is rolled between palms to round it out and help tighten the internal matrix.
Residue
White or gray gunk left behind by products. A sign of poor quality wax/gel or insufficient washing.
Retwist
The process of twisting the new growth at the root to neaten the appearance of the locs. Typically done with gel or oil.
Root Rubbing
A technique of rubbing the roots against the scalp in a circular motion to encourage knotting. Often used in freeform or semi-freeform journeys.
Semi-Freeform
A hybrid method where locs are separated at the root (popping) but not frequently retwisted, allowing for thicker, organic growth.
Sisterlocks™
A trademarked interlocking technique that creates tiny, uniform, woven locs using a specialized tool. Requires certified consultants.
Starter Locs
The very first stage of locs, often started with comb coils, two-strand twists, or braids. They are delicate and can unravel easily.
Two-Strand Twist
A common starter method where two sections of hair are twisted around each other. As they mature, the two strands merge into a single loc.
Ugly Phase
A colloquial term for the teenage stage of locs (6-12 months) where they are frizzy, lumpy, and shrinking. A crucial part of the maturation process.
Wick Locs
Extremely thick locs, often created by combining many traditional locs together. Popularized in Florida.