The beginning stage of Sisterlocks is known as The Pre-locking Stage, also commonly referred to as the baby lock, starter, or newbie stage. This crucial initial phase marks the moment your Sisterlocks are freshly installed.
During this foundational period, your newly installed locs exhibit distinct characteristics:
- Appearance: They are typically small and tightly coiled, with crisp and neat parting lines visible on the scalp.
- Condition: While visually appealing, locs in the pre-locking stage are in a fragile state. This means they require careful handling and adherence to specific maintenance routines to encourage proper locking and prevent damage.
Understanding this stage is essential for anyone embarking on their Sisterlocks journey, as it sets the foundation for the healthy development of your locs. Proper care during this initial phase helps ensure the longevity and beauty of your Sisterlocks.
Key Characteristics of the Pre-locking Stage
To better understand what to expect, here’s a breakdown of the defining traits of this introductory phase:
- Fresh Installation: This stage begins immediately after your Sisterlocks are intricately installed by a certified consultant.
- Appearance:
- Size: Locs are at their smallest and most defined.
- Coil Pattern: They maintain a tightly coiled structure from the interlocking technique.
- Parting: The grid pattern created during installation is very clear and precise.
- Fragility: Due to their newness and the open nature of the interlocking pattern, the locs are not yet "locked." They are prone to unraveling or fuzziness if not handled with care.
Maintaining Your Sisterlocks During the Starter Phase
Proper maintenance is paramount during the pre-locking stage to protect your investment and encourage successful locking. Here are some general tips:
- Washing: Follow your consultant's specific washing instructions meticulously. Often, this involves gentle washing techniques and specific products designed for new Sisterlocks.
- Moisturizing: Use only recommended moisturizers or oils, as heavy products can cause buildup or slippage.
- Retightening: Adhere to your scheduled retightening appointments with your certified Sisterlocks consultant. This is critical for maintaining the integrity of the locs and managing new growth.
- Protection: Sleep with a satin or silk bonnet/scarf to minimize friction and prevent frizz or lint accumulation.
- Avoid Manipulation: Limit excessive pulling, tugging, or styling that could put stress on the fragile new locs.
For more comprehensive information on Sisterlocks and their development, you can visit the official Sisterlocks website.
