Sisterlocks has been a hot topic in our Master Group of late, more of my hair course alumni are opting for this way of wearing their natural hair and even more are thinking about going down this route! I have thought about it myself and I am still thinking about it, I love loose hair but I really dislike styling and it’s only getting worse as I get older.
When it comes to installing Sisterlocks, it's important to find a stylist who is experienced and knowledgeable in the process and preferably someone who is certified. Being certified is especially important if sisterlocks is the goal.
Here are some of the top Sisterlocks’ installers in the UK our ex-clients have used and rate highly!
Fenella comes highly recommended in the group and is most likely where I will go to do mine unless I find someone closer to me! I have heard nothing but goodness about her service, delivery, and crucially her results. Please note you will most likely wait a few months before she can fit you in.
A very well-respected hair coach I know just had her locs done by this lady and again, nothing but good reviews, first-hand reviews!! The downside is she is not taking new customers for now!
If you live in Nigeria, you may want to try Loc’d in Lagos! Although none of our Alumni have used her, she states on her profile that she is certified.
If you want to be sure that you are getting a trained Sisterlocks certified practitioner, you can check the list of everyone trained in the art by country on sisterlocks.com
The Cost of Installation!
The cost of the installation of Sisterlocks can vary depending on a number of factors, including the length and thickness of your hair, the size of the Locs, and the salon you choose.
On average, you can expect to pay around £600 - 1800 for your first session. Subsequent sessions may be less expensive, as they typically involve maintenance and retightening rather than the initial installation. So for example every month post installation you could pay up to £90 per month.
Process
The process of installing Sisterlocks is precise and time-intensive, but the results are well worth it! Because they are so thin and intricate, your first appointment can take anywhere from 24 - 36 hours or more. One of our master group members was quoted £1,800 for 3 days installation! we all screamed too! But her hair is long!! Remember those on our master course have been caring for their hair for a while.
You can also expect to finish the process with a number ranging from 100 to 400 Sisterlocks, depending on the length and density of your hair.
Here's what to expect during the installation process:
1. A Consultation: Your stylist will begin by assessing your hair and discussing your desired look. They may also take measurements to determine the size and number of locs needed.
2. Parting: Your hair will be parted into small sections using a comb or other tool. The sections will be secured with clips or bands to keep them separate.
3. Backcombing: Your stylist will use a special tool to backcomb each section of hair, creating a "puff ball" at the base of the section.
4. Locking: Using a small crochet hook, your stylist will begin to twist and lock the hair from the base of the section to the tip. This process is repeated for each section until all of the hair has been locked.
5. Finishing: Once all of the locs have been installed, your stylist will trim any loose or uneven ends and style the locs to your liking.
Aftercare
As a new loc queen, you have to stay on top of your aftercare! This is essential for maintaining healthy, beautiful sisterlocks. Here are some helpful tips for you:
1. Keep your scalp clean to prevent dryness and itching. Our Dúdú clarifying shampoo is a great cleanser and scalp exfoliant that is perfectly suitable for locs! DO NOT WASH BEFORE YOUR LOCTICIAN GIVES YOU A THUMBS UP.
So you generally can’t wash weekly for a few months (people with scalp issues should therefore consider this carefully). However, when you are allowed to wash, Dúdú is a great shampoo to keep your scalp clean and exfoliated. It also wouldn't leave your Sisterlocks stripped and given that you can’t deep condition, this is literally the best! Let the Salicylic acid and Charcoal do their thing.
2. Avoid using heavy oils or products that can weigh down the locs. Most certified practitioners will say No Oils for a few months. Listen to them. You can introduce ois later … and when you are given the go ahead, our Khalila oil is a super-nourishing blend of oils that are perfect for healthy locs! It penetrates the hair shaft, giving it strength, without leaving your locs feeling heavy or greasy.
3. Sleep with a satin or silk scarf, Bonnet or pillowcase to prevent frizz and breakage.
4. Retighten your Locs regularly to maintain their shape and prevent unraveling. No matter what type of locs you choose, they will need to be maintained on a schedule. Sisterlocks need to be retightened every 4-6 weeks.
This hairstyle is absolutely beautiful and versatile, and it can even be customized to suit your individual style! And the best part is it’s a worthy investment that can be enjoyed for so many yearsss!
If you’re looking to start your Sisterlocks journey, perhaps this is the encouragement you need!