Thinking about starting locs but not sure where to begin? Before your first appointment, there are a few decisions worth making, including your loc size, starting method, parting pattern and maintenance routine. Choosing a loc salon that understands your hair can help you make those decisions with confidence.
At Iconique Hair Salon in Whitby, we believe good locs begin with a good conversation which is why we offer a free loc consultation before your first loc appointment with us. Your hair texture, density, lifestyle and personal preferences all matter in making this decision. Call Iconique for a free loc consultation before you proceed. We are happy to discuss your lifestyle and find an option that works for you!
Here are the things we recommend considering before you start.
1. What Size Locs Should I Get?
One of the biggest decisions you'll make is how thick or small you'd like your locs to be.
Smaller locs generally offer more styling flexibility but may require more detailed maintenance. Larger locs create a different appearance and typically involve fewer individual sections.
But size isn't just about aesthetics.
Your hair density, strand thickness and the way your hair naturally grows all influence which sizes may work for you.
What if my hair is very thick or dense?
Having thick hair doesn't automatically mean you need large locs.
You may have many fine strands, fewer coarse strands or a combination of characteristics that influence how your locs should be sectioned.
And how many locs should you have?
There's no magic number. Your ideal loc count depends on your scalp coverage, density, chosen size and sectioning pattern.
Our locticians can help you find a balance between the look you want and a maintenance routine that makes sense for your hair.
2. Which Starting Loc Method Is Best?
Not all starter locs are created the same way, and that's a good thing.
Different methods suit different textures, lengths, preferences and routines.
Comb Coils
Comb coils are a popular choice for tightly curled and coily hair. They create defined coils that gradually develop into locs.
They may unravel more easily in the beginning, particularly with frequent manipulation.
Two-Strand Twists
Two-strand twists offer a fuller initial appearance and are a common starting method for various textured hair types.
The twist pattern may remain visible for some time as your locs mature.
Braids
Starting locs with braids can provide a secure foundation, especially for hair textures that may not hold coils easily.
Keep in mind that the braid pattern can remain visible as your locs develop.
Interlocking
Interlocking uses a structured technique to secure the hair. It may be suitable for certain hair textures, smaller locs and people with active lifestyles.
The technique requires careful sectioning and professional maintenance planning.
Instant Locs
Prefer a more established loc appearance from the beginning?
Instant locs use a specialised technique to create locs without waiting for traditional coils or twists to develop their initial structure.
They still require regular care, and your hair's condition will help determine whether this method is appropriate.
Not sure which one to choose? That's exactly what a consultation is for. At Iconique, we'll discuss your options before recommending a starting method. Call Iconique for a free loc consultation to get started.
3. Does My Loc Parting Have to Be Perfect?
Your parting pattern, sometimes called your grid, determines how your locs are distributed across your scalp.
Common patterns include square, diamond and brick-lay parting.
Each creates a slightly different appearance and influences how your locs fall when styled.
But perfectly identical sections aren't always necessary or practical.
A well-planned grid should work with your natural hair density, hairline and growth patterns.
Can I Change My Parting Later?
You may be able to change how you style or part your locs, but changing their original sectioning pattern once they've matured can be difficult.
Major changes may require professional restructuring.
That's why it's worth thinking about your preferred hairstyles and parting before your installation.
4. Can I Start Locs With Relaxed or Texlaxed Hair?
Yes, starting locs with relaxed or texlaxed hair may be possible.
However, chemically treated hair behaves differently from untreated natural hair. Differences in texture and condition can affect how locs form and hold together.
Your loctician will need to assess your hair's condition, remaining treated lengths and suitable starting methods.
At Iconique, we work with natural, textured and relaxed hair. Every consultation begins with understanding your hair as it is, not assuming it needs to fit a particular mould.
5. How Often Do Starter Locs Need Maintenance?
Starting locs is one appointment. Caring for them is an ongoing commitment.
Most locticians recommend maintenance appointments approximately every four to eight weeks, although your schedule will depend on your starting method, hair growth and individual needs.
Maintenance may include:
Retwisting or interlocking new growth.
Professional washing and scalp care.
Maintaining your sections and managing loose hairs.
Treatments or repairs when appropriate.
Styling that avoids unnecessary scalp tension.
At Iconique, we provide loc retwists, interlocking, crochet maintenance, microloc maintenance, loc detox, repair and styling.
Your maintenance routine can change as your locs develop. You don't need to have everything figured out on day one.
6. Can I Wash My Hair or Work Out With Starter Locs?
Absolutely. Having starter locs doesn't mean putting your life on hold.
You can continue exercising, sweating and enjoying your usual activities.
However, the frequency and approach to washing may depend on your hair texture and starting method, particularly while your locs are still forming.
If you work out regularly, mention it during your consultation. Your loctician can help plan professional washing and maintenance around your routine.
At Iconique, washing and scalp care are part of the services we offer, so you can have your hair cared for throughout the early stages.
7. What if I Have a Sensitive Scalp?
Your comfort matters just as much as the finished hairstyle.
If your scalp is sensitive or you're concerned about tension, tell your loctician before your service begins.
Your sectioning, starting method and maintenance approach should take your comfort into consideration.
Neat locs shouldn't require painful tension.
At Iconique, we're known for gentle hands, patience and a scalp-first approach.
Between appointments, simple habits can help you care for your hair: wear a satin bonnet or scarf, keep your scalp comfortably moisturised and avoid unnecessarily tight styling.
8. Should I Start Locs Myself or Visit a Loctician?
Some people prefer starting their own locs, while others want professional guidance from the beginning.
Working with a loctician gives you the opportunity to discuss your hair density, starting method, sectioning pattern and long-term maintenance before committing.
It can be especially helpful if you're undecided about sizing or how your locs will fit your lifestyle.
At Iconique, our free loc consultation is designed for exactly these conversations.
9. What Should I Expect as My Locs Develop?
Here's something worth knowing: your starter locs won't always look like they did on installation day.
Frizz, shrinkage, budding and changes in texture are all common as locs develop.
The timeline differs from person to person. Hair texture, starting method, maintenance and everyday habits can influence the process.
You may also find that your preferred styling routine changes as your locs grow.
The goal isn't to make every stage look identical. It's to understand what your hair needs along the way.
Ready to Start Locs? Let's Talk About Your Hair.
The best starting point isn't choosing a hairstyle from a photo. It's understanding what will work for you.
At our Whitby loc salon, your free loc consultation is where we discuss your ideal size, starting method, parting grid and maintenance plan together.
We welcome clients from Oshawa, Ajax, Pickering, Courtice, Clarington, Bowmanville, Scarborough and across Durham Region.
Explore our professional loc services and consultations to see how we can help you get started.
Visit Iconique Hair Salon at 102A Lupin Drive in downtown Whitby, with free parking and appointments that respect your time.
Ready when you are. Book your free loc consultation online, call (905) 391-4242, or walk in.
We're open Tuesday to Saturday, 9 AM–6 PM, and Sunday, 1 PM–6 PM.
