In a world where individuality and self-expression are highly valued, many people are turning to unique and natural hairstyles to express their identity.
One such style that has gained popularity is locs or dreadlocks, and especially starting locs with two strand twists.
Originating from various cultures, locs symbolize a deep connection to one’s roots, both literally and figuratively.
While there are various methods to start locs, today, we’ll delve into the art of starting locs with two strand twists, a gentle and versatile technique that yields beautiful, well-formed locs over time.
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Understanding Two-Strand Twists
Before we dive into the process of starting locs with two strand twists, let’s take a moment to understand what this technique entails.
Two-strand twists involve taking two sections of hair and twisting them together, creating a rope-like effect.
When done correctly, these twists can be worn as a temporary style or serve as the foundation for forming locs.
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The Advantages of Starting Locs with Two Strand Twists
Starting your loc journey with two-strand twists offers several benefits. First and foremost, it is a gentle method that causes less tension on your hair compared to other methods like palm rolling or interlocking.
This reduced tension is crucial for maintaining healthy hair and scalp, as it minimizes the risk of breakage and promotes hair growth.
Additionally, two-strand twists create a uniform foundation for your locs.
This consistency is essential, especially if you desire neat and uniform locs as they mature.
Furthermore, the twists help train your hair to grow in a specific direction, aiding the overall appearance of your locs as they develop.
The Process of Starting Locs with Two-Strand Twists
Starting your loc journey with two-strand twists is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Step 1: Prepare your hair
Before starting, ensure your hair is clean, moisturized, and free from any tangles or knots. It’s recommended to use a sulfate-free shampoo and a moisturizing conditioner to keep your hair nourished during the process.
Additionally, a wide-tooth comb will be your best friend when detangling your hair.
Step 2: Apply a light styling product
To aid in the twisting process, apply a light hair product with a slightly sticky texture. Aloe vera gel or a natural curl cream work well for this purpose. Avoid using heavy products, as they may weigh down your twists and cause frizz.
Step 3: Divide and conquer
Using a rat-tail comb, section your hair into parts that are about the same size as the locs you desire. Smaller sections will yield thinner locs, while larger sections will result in thicker ones.
Consider the look you want and the texture of your hair to determine the optimal size for your sections.
Step 4: Twist away!
Now comes the fun part—twisting! Take two adjacent sections of hair, apply a small amount of the styling product, and twist them together.
Be sure to twist all the way down to the ends, securing the twist tightly but not too tightly that it causes discomfort.
Repeat this process for each section of hair until your entire head is adorned with two-strand twists.
Step 5: Be patient
Starting locs with two-strand twists is a gradual process. It will take some time for the twists to tighten and for your hair to form solid locs. Be patient with your hair and embrace the journey as your locs evolve and mature.