New Loc Care Routine: Everything You Need to Know

Starting Your Loc Journey

Getting dreadlocks is an exciting commitment — but the first few months can feel uncertain. Your locs will go through several stages before they fully mature, and knowing how to care for them at each stage makes all the difference. This guide covers everything you need to build a solid new loc care routine.

The Stages of New Locs

• Starter stage (0–6 months): Your locs are freshly installed and may look neat, but the hair hasn't begun to truly lock yet. This stage requires the most care and patience.
• Budding stage (3–9 months): You'll notice the hair starting to swell and bud at the ends. This is a great sign — your locs are locking!
• Teen stage (9–15 months): Locs can look frizzy and uneven during this phase. Don't panic — it's completely normal.
• Mature stage (15–18+ months): Your locs are fully locked, cylindrical, and much easier to manage.

Of course, these timings can differ for everyone.. different hair textures, regular or irregular maintenances, and types of maintenance you are doing. 

Your Weekly New Loc Care Routine

Step 1: Wash Regularly

Contrary to popular myth, you should wash your new locs regularly — ideally every 1–2 weeks. Clean hair locks faster because there's no residue coating the hair shaft. Use our Dreadlock Shampoo, which is free from silicones and conditioning agents that can slow down the locking process. Work it into your scalp and squeeze it gently through each loc, then rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.

Step 2: Dry Completely

This is non-negotiable. Damp locs can develop mildew, which causes an unpleasant smell and can damage your hair. After washing, squeeze out excess water, blot with a microfibre towel, and either air dry fully or use a hair dryer on a low heat setting. Never go to bed with wet locs. ( a hair/ blow dryer is highly recommended, just don’t use a high heat setting!.. Dry in intervals)

Step 3: Nourish Your Scalp

A healthy scalp means healthy locs. Once your locs are dry, mist your scalp with our Nourishing Spray & Hair Growth Tonic. It's lightweight enough not to cause build-up, and it helps soothe the scalp while promoting healthy hair growth — perfect for the new loc stage when your scalp may feel tight or itchy.

Step 4: Maintain Your Roots

After washing, tighten your roots and shafts using palm rolling or your preferred method. This encourages new growth to lock in and keeps your locs looking tidy. Always tighten on clean, slightly damp hair for best results.

Step 5: Detox Every 2-3 Weeks

Even with a good routine, build-up can accumulate inside your locs over time. Our Detox Dreadlock Shampoo is designed to draw out impurities and reset your locs. Use it every 2-3 weeks as part of your deeper cleansing routine.

What to Avoid with New Locs

• Wax and heavy products: These cause serious build-up inside locs that is very difficult to remove.
• Conditioner: Conditioner softens and coats the hair, which prevents locking. (Conditioner can be used on matured locs or loose ended locs)
• Tight hats and scarves: These can flatten and distort new locs. If you need to cover your hair, use a loose satin or silk bonnet.
• Picking at frizz: Frizz is part of the process. Pulling at loose hairs can damage your locs.

Be Patient with the Process

The most important thing to remember is that locs take time. Every head of hair is different, and your locs will develop at their own pace. Trust the process, stick to your routine, and enjoy the journey.

Shop our full range of dreadlock care products to give your new locs the best possible start.