Most people think of locs as a hair commitment that is difficult to get out of. If you’ve come to the end of your loc commitment, know that cutting your hair and starting from scratch is not your only option. I combed out my locs five years ago to experience my hair’s curl pattern. I wasn’t confident enough to cut off my locs, so I sought an alternative way to release myself from my loc commitment while retaining some length.
Before you get started, stock up on essential loc products that will be critical to helping comb out your locs.
What you’ll need:
- 1. Conditioner
- 2. Water
- 3. Rat-tail comb
- 4. Regular comb
- 5. Patience
- 6. Time
1. Wash and Condition your Hair Before Combing out Your Locs.
Image Source: @themendedlocsshow
Allow your hair to retain as much moisture as possible. Your time commitment will determine how you section your hair. For my locs, I dedicated a few hours daily to unlocking my hair. I started at the crown of my head so that I could put my hair up in a bun or ponytail each day. The entire process took 2 weeks. With time and patience, you can finish your hair on a weekend.
2. Use Loc-Friendly Products
After you’ve sectioned your hair, apply your favorite leave-in conditioner to the first section and massage it into your locs. Make sure each loc is completely saturated, and let it soak for about 5 minutes.
3. Expect Shedding
Image Source: @multihairphenate
Use the pointed end of your rat-tail comb to pick your loc from the bottom up. Add water to maintain moisture within the hair. Continue this process until you’ve completed your first section. Please note that you will not retain the exact length of your locs. It is completely normal to experience shedding.
4. Remove Knots
Once a section is complete, use a regular comb to remove knots and shedded hair.
5. Apply some TLC to your hair.
Apply a deep conditioner or hot oil treatment to restore the moisture in each strand. This will be a huge part of your hair regimen moving forward. The right deep conditioner will restore your curls and keep your hair healthy.
6. Get Rid of Damaged Ends
Image Source: @classynita
Whether you trim your own hair or have a stylist do it, make sure you get rid of the damaged ends. A good trim will allow your hair to grow longer and stronger.
Image Source: @nic.coleonardvanderhorst
Congratulations! You’ve successfully combed out your locs and retained some length. Now what? Take the time to learn your hair. After I unlocked my hair, I retained shoulder-length tresses. Over the years, I’ve experimented with various styles and colors. I learned that longer hair is not for me. My curl pattern has more body when it is shaped and tapered.
Rediscovering your hair can be loads of fun, but know that finding the right products will require trial and error. Have no fear—NaturallyCurly is here for all your pre-and post-loc care tips.
What do you think? Will you use the comb-out method to unlock your hair? Which loc care tips do you want to see more of in the future? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
