Soft locs are a popular hairstyle among people with natural hair, especially those with Afro-textured hair. These locs offer a low-maintenance alternative to traditional dreadlocks and can be styled in various ways. However, maintaining soft locs requires proper washing techniques to keep them clean and healthy. In this article, we’ll show you how to wash soft locs properly and answer some common questions about this hairstyle.
Why is it important to wash soft locs?
Washing your soft locs is essential to maintain their health and appearance. Your scalp produces natural oils that can build up on your hair and scalp over time, causing dandruff and other scalp conditions. Dirt, dust, and debris can also accumulate on your hair, making it look dull and lifeless. Washing your soft locs removes these impurities and keeps them clean and healthy.
What do you need to wash your soft locs?
Before you start washing your soft locs, gather the following items:
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Towel
- Wide-tooth comb
- Spray bottle
- Warm water
Make sure that the shampoo and conditioner you use are suitable for your hair type and texture. You can also use a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup from your hair.
How often should you wash your soft locs?
The frequency of washing your soft locs depends on your hair type and lifestyle. If you have an oily scalp, you may need to wash your hair more frequently than someone with a dry scalp. Similarly, if you exercise frequently or sweat a lot, you may need to wash your hair more often. As a general rule, you should wash your soft locs every 1-2 weeks.
How to wash your soft locs
Follow these steps to wash your soft locs:
- Wet your soft locs thoroughly with warm water.
- Apply a generous amount of shampoo to your scalp and roots.
- Gently massage your scalp with your fingertips, working the shampoo into your hair.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water.
- Apply conditioner to the length of your hair, avoiding the roots.
- Gently comb your hair with a wide-tooth comb to distribute the conditioner evenly.
- Leave the conditioner on your hair for 5-10 minutes.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water.
- Squeeze out excess water from your hair with a towel.
- Let your hair air dry or use a hair dryer on a low heat setting.
Can you wash soft locs with hot water?
It’s best to avoid washing your soft locs with hot water as it can cause them to unravel or become frizzy. Instead, use warm water to wash your hair and rinse it with cool water to seal the hair cuticles and prevent frizz.
How to prevent frizz when washing soft locs
To prevent frizz when washing your soft locs, follow these tips:
- Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner that won’t strip your hair of its natural oils.
- Avoid using hot water to wash your hair.
- Don’t rub your hair vigorously with a towel. Instead, squeeze out excess water gently.
- Avoid using a hair dryer on a high heat setting. Instead, use a low heat setting or let your hair air dry.
- Avoid touching your hair too much when it’s wet as it can cause frizz.
How to maintain soft locs after washing
After washing your soft locs, follow these tips to maintain them:
- Avoid using heavy styling products that can weigh down your hair.
- Moisturize your hair regularly to prevent dryness and breakage.
- Avoid using tight hair ties or headbands that can pull on your hair and cause breakage.
- Protect your hair from the sun and harsh weather conditions by wearing a hat or scarf.
- Avoid using hot styling tools such as straighteners or curling irons as they can damage your hair.
Conclusion
Washing your soft locs is an essential part of maintaining their health and appearance. By following the steps outlined in this article and using the right products, you can keep your soft locs clean, healthy, and frizz-free. Remember to moisturize your hair regularly and protect it from the sun and harsh weather conditions to keep it looking its best.