My sisterlocks are just over 200 days old! Later this month, I’ll celebrate my 7 month locversary.

Sisterlocks: The first 200 days

Installation: Jitters & Doubts

When my locs were installed in April, I was afraid. I wasn’t sure if my hair was dense enough to look full. When the first 30 or so locs were installed at the crown of my head, I was even more afraid because of the amount of scalp that I saw. I had no clue what they would look like 200 days later and it terrified me.

Dry Scalp

Then there was that 2-3 week period of dry scalp. I thought that would last FOREVER. Thankfully, the Witch Hazel and water spray cleared that up. Now, dry scalp is only an issue after I’ve worked out several times a week without following up with my witch hazel concoction and jojoba oil.

Slippage

I haven’t had much slippage since the first couple of months, although there was that Janet Jackson episode with the hat…But, I can safely say that I’ve learned my lesson: No extreme styling, hats, or pulling on my hair until it has fully loc’ed!

Working Out & Re-tightening

I still work out 3-4 times a week during my lunch break. To maintain my hair, I usually flat twist it just before the workout, which helps prevent slipping and helps seal in curls. When the workout is over, I shower, unravel the twists, spritz my scalp with Witch Hazel (if necessary), and go about my day.

My wonderful loctician re-tightens my hair every 5 weeks or so. In between re-tightens, I use the witch hazel / tea tree oil combo and follow up with pure jojoba oil. That takes care of any odor, itching, and dry scalp until my next reti.

Hair Today

200 days later…I’ve lost a few locs from slippage or weak edges. I’ve missed my afro and other loose hair styles, and I’ve endured stares and odd questions. Howsonever, I am still extremely happy with my decision! Wearing sisterlocks allows me to lead an active lifestyle and still maintain a beautifully coiffed ‘do in the process. Who knows what the next year or two will bring. But today, I’m rejoicing over my decision.