Starting Locs: Complete Beginner's Guide

July 24, 2025

Micro Locs: Complete Beginner's Guide [2025]

Your Journey to Beautiful Micro Locs Starts Here

Thinking about starting micro locs? You're about to embark on one of the most versatile natural hair journeys possible. Unlike traditional locs, micro locs offer incredible styling flexibility while celebrating your natural texture.

Micro locs including Sisterlocks, traditional microlocs, and micro twists give you the freedom to wear virtually any hairstyle while maintaining protective benefits. From elegant updos to flowing styles, micro locs adapt to your lifestyle.

At Couronne Par Elle, we understand that micro locs represent a significant investment. This guide will help you make informed decisions about starting your micro loc journey with confidence.

Understanding Micro Locs: What Makes Them Special

What Are Micro Locs?

Micro locs are very small locs, typically pencil-lead thickness or smaller, created through precise sectioning and specialized techniques. They range from 200-800+ individual locs, depending on hair density.

Types of Micro Locs

Sisterlocks®

What it is: Patented technique with certified consultants only.
Benefits: Uniform results, maximum styling versatility.
Investment: $1200-2000+ installation, $200-300 maintenance.
Timeline: 16-24 hours of installation over multiple sessions.

Traditional Microlocs

What it is: Small locs using various starting methods.
Benefits: More affordable, flexible sizing options.
Investment: $700-1200 installation, $100-250 maintenance.
Timeline: 12-20 hours depending on method.

Micro Twists

What it is: Two-strand twists that mature into locs.
Benefits: Most budget-friendly, can be self-installed.
Investment: $50-200 for products and tools.
Timeline: 8-15 hours (can spread over weeks for DIY projects).

Choosing Your Method

Choose Sisterlocks If:

You want uniform, professional results from day one.
Your budget allows for premium investment.
You prefer minimal ongoing styling effort.
Maximum versatility is your priority.

Choose Traditional Microlocs If:

You want micro loc benefits with more flexibility.
You prefer more affordable options.
Some size variation is acceptable.
Want a shorter installation time.

Choose Micro Twists If:

You're budget-conscious or prefer DIY
You want to learn about your hair gradually
You don't mind a longer maturation process
You enjoy hands-on hair care

The Micro Loc Timeline

Installation Phase (Weeks 1-4)

No washing for 2 weeks (per stylist instructions).
Gentle handling to allow settling.
Sleep protection from day one (wear your satin bonnet).
Learning new care routines.

Early Development (Months 1-6)

First retightening appointments (4 - 6 weeks).
Some frizzing and root loosening (this is normal, be mentally prepared).
Establishing washing and styling routines (adopt the braid and band technique)
Building confidence with your locs.

Maturation (Months 6-18)

Locs are becoming stronger and more stable.
Increased styling versatility (posibility to add color to hair).
Regular maintenance routine established.
Length retention becomes apparent.

Mature Phase (18+ Months)

Maximum styling flexibility achieved.
Strong, well-established locs.
Efficient maintenance routine.
Your unique micro loc personality emerged.

Essential Products for Micro Locs

Must-Have Products

🧴 Cleansing:

Clarifying shampoo: Essential for preventing buildup
Diluted shampoo: Mix 1:1 with water for gentle cleansing

💧 Moisturizing:

Water-based sprays: Light daily moisture
Aloe vera juice: Natural hydration without heaviness
Light oils: Jojoba or grapeseed (sparingly)

✨ Styling:

Edge control wax stick: Clean edge control
Flaxseed gel: Natural hold without residue

🛡️ Protection:

Large Satin Bonnet: Accommodates micro loc volume
Satin Edge Wrap: Protects delicate edges
Satin Scrunchies: Gentle hold for fine locs
Headband Wig Kit: All phases of your loc journey are beautiful, but for some, the baby loc period can be stressful. Protect your hair while maintaining confidence with cost-effective protective styles that do not affect the integrity of your locs.

Complete Solution: Our Locs Starter Kit includes products perfect for micro loc care.

Products to Avoid

Heavy creams and butters: Impossible to rinse from dense locs
Thick gels: Create buildup between small locs
Beeswax: Never fully rinses out
Oil-heavy products: Attract dirt and buildup

Care and Maintenance

Weekly Washing Routine

Dilute shampoo: Mix 1:1 with water
Focus on scalp: Massage gently with fingertips
Rinse thoroughly: Ensure all product is removed
Air dry completely: Prevent mold and mildew

Daily Care

Morning:

Remove satin bonnet.
Light water mist if hair feels dry.
Style hair being careful not to cause too much tension.

Evening:

Apply satin bonnet or use satin pillowcase.
Protect edges if needed.

Professional Maintenance

Sisterlocks: Every 6-8 weeks ($150-300)
Traditional microlocs: Every 4-6 weeks ($100-250)
Annual cost: $1,200-2,400 (budget accordingly)

Styling Your Micro Locs

The main advantage of micro locs is incredible styling versatility. With hundreds of fine locs, you can achieve styles that closely mimic loose natural hair.

Popular Styles

Professional: Low buns, French twists, braided styles.
Casual: Wash-and-go, ponytails, space buns.
Formal: Pin curls, chignons, braided crowns.
Protective: Updos using satin scrunchies.

Common Challenges and Solutions

"My micro locs are combining"

Solution: Regular professional maintenance, avoid heavy products, gentle handling during washing.

"My scalp itches constantly"

Solution: Increase washing frequency, use clarifying shampoo bi-weekly, ensure thorough rinsing.

"Maintenance is too expensive"

Solution: Learn basic techniques, extend appointments gradually, budget monthly for costs. Note: if you do not know how to maintain your locs yourself properly, it is best to seek professional help as it might turn out more expensive to correct them in the future.

"My locs look thin"

Solution: Be patient (locs thicken with maturity), consult loctician about combining some locs if needed.

Finding the Right Professional

Questions to Ask

How many micro loc installations have you completed?
Can you show before/after photos of your work?
What's your maintenance schedule recommendation?
What products do you recommend for home care?

Red Flags

No certification.
No portfolio of micro loc work.
Unrealistic promises or timelines.
Significantly cheaper than market rate.
Unable to explain their techniques clearly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How small can micro locs be?

As fine as pencil lead or thinner. Ultra-fine locs may have 400-800+ individual locks depending on hair density.

Can I start micro locs on short hair?

You need at least 1.5-2 inches. Sisterlocks can work with shorter hair due to the interlocking technique.

How often do they need maintenance?

Every 4-8 weeks professionally, depending on growth rate and method used.

Will micro locs damage my hair?

When properly installed and maintained, they're protective. Poor installation or maintenance can cause damage.

Can I exercise with new micro locs?

Yes, but avoid excessive sweating for the first 2-4 weeks.

Investment Summary

Initial Costs

Sisterlocks: $800-2,500
Traditional microlocs: $400-1,200
Micro twists (DIY): $50-200

Annual Maintenance

Professional maintenance: $1,200-2,400 per year
Products and tools: $100-200 per year

Start Your Micro Loc Journey

Micro locs offer unmatched versatility and beauty while celebrating your natural texture. The investment in time and money pays off with years of stunning, flexible styling options.

🌟 Essential Products:

Complete Locs Starter Kit — everything you need
Large Satin Bonnet — accommodates micro loc volume
Satin Edge Wrap — protects delicate edges
Satin Scrunchies — gentle styling options

Free shipping on orders over $100 CAD. All products are handmade in Canada.

Join Our Micro Loc Community

Connect with others on their micro loc journey. Tag @couronneparelle with #MicroLocJourney2025 to share your progress!

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