Growing your locs can be a beautiful journey filled with many style options along the way.
Whether you’re just starting your loc journey or looking to switch up your current style, there are plenty of ways to keep your hair looking fresh while promoting healthy growth.
1. Starter Locs with Two-Strand Twists
Two-strand twists create the perfect foundation for new locs. This beginner-friendly style involves dividing your hair into sections and twisting two strands around each other from root to tip.
The result is a neat, defined pattern that helps your hair lock naturally over time.
2. Comb Coils for Precision
Comb coils offer a precise, uniform look that’s perfect for the beginning stages of your loc journey.
Created by using a small-toothed comb and gel to twist small sections of hair into tight spirals, this style provides excellent control over the size and placement of your future locs.
3. Braid Locs for Texture
Braid locs offer a unique textured appearance that stands out from other methods. Starting with simple three-strand braids, this technique creates distinctive zigzag patterns as your locs mature.
The braided beginning gives your locs a flatter, more rectangular shape rather than the typical round profile.
4. Freeform Locs for Natural Growth
Freeform locs celebrate the natural journey of your hair without manipulation. Unlike other methods, this approach lets your hair lock at its own pace with minimal interference.
The result is a completely unique pattern of locs varying in size, shape, and direction – truly one-of-a-kind.
5. Palm Rolling for Smooth Locs
Palm rolling creates beautifully smooth, cylindrical locs that many find aesthetically pleasing.
The technique involves rolling each loc between your palms with a bit of locking gel or wax, encouraging the hair to form tight, uniform cylinders.
6. Interlocking for Low-Maintenance Growth
Interlocking uses a special tool or crochet needle to pull the ends of your locs through the roots, creating a secure foundation that lasts.
This technique is particularly valuable for those with straight or fine hair textures that struggle to stay locked with other methods.
7. Loc Extensions for Instant Length
Loc extensions offer immediate gratification for those who don’t want to wait through the early stages of loc growth. Human or synthetic hair is attached to your natural hair, giving you the appearance of mature locs right away.
8. Braid-Out Styles for Texture Variation
Braid-outs create gorgeous waves and crimps in your locs, adding dimension and movement to your style. Simply braid your locs while damp, let them dry completely, then unravel for a transformed look. The tighter the braids, the more defined the waves will be.
9. Loc Buns for Professional Settings
Loc buns offer a polished, professional appearance while keeping your growing locs neat and protected. Gathering your locs at the crown, nape, or side of your head creates an elegant silhouette suitable for workplace environments or formal occasions.
10. Half-Up Styles for Versatility
Half-up styles offer the perfect balance between showing off your locs and keeping them controlled. By securing just the top portion of your locs away from your face, you create a flattering frame that works for casual outings or dressy events.
11. Crown Braiding for Special Occasions
Crown braiding transforms your locs into a regal, head-turning style perfect for weddings, graduations, or anytime you want to feel extra special. This technique involves weaving your locs around your head in circular patterns that resemble a crown or halo.
12. High Ponytails for Active Lifestyles
High ponytails offer practical style for active loc wearers who need their hair secured during workouts, sports, or busy days. Gathering your locs at the crown creates a striking silhouette while keeping hair off your neck and face.
13. Loc Pineappling for Nighttime Protection
Pineappling your locs creates a protective nighttime style that prevents tangling and breakage while you sleep. Simply gathering your locs loosely at the very top of your head resembles a pineapple shape and keeps them from rubbing against your pillowcase all night.
14. Barrel Rolls for Elegant Structure
Barrel rolls create sophisticated, structured styles that showcase the versatility of mature locs. This technique involves rolling sections of locs horizontally and pinning them in place to create cylindrical shapes across your head.
15. Loc Bantu Knots for Growth and Style
Bantu knots transform your locs into striking sculptural elements while providing excellent protection during the growth process. This centuries-old technique involves twisting sections of locs around themselves to create small, coiled knots across your head.