Sisterlocks are a particular type of dreadlocks that are incredibly versatile. As the name depicts, a protective hairstyle protects your hair from environmental factors such as humidity, dust, sun rays, and more. With additional hair issues such as thin hair texture, split ends, or itchy scalp, there is nothing that a protective hairstyle cannot treat. Likewise, sisterlocks are a protective hairstyle that complements your natural hair.
Are you thinking of getting this style and transforming your look? Well, if you like thin and delicate designs, this one is good. This blog will share all about the sisterlocks, the pros and cons of sisterlocks, sisterlocks vs. dreadlocks, and much more. Stay connected to know more about this type of locs and how to maintain them well with versatile hairstyles. Now, let's first introduce you to what are the sisterlocks?
What are Sisterlocks?
Sisterlocks are the type of dreadlocks that are matted together to create a rope-like appearance. The locs are thin and tiny but give you the perfect trendy look. They are light, so they take much time to install and leave a permanent style in your natural hair. The technique is simple and does not involve twisting, rolling, or other techniques. Instead, they are created with the help of s unique tool that builds the locs from the roots to the ends of the hair. Further, this technique doesn't involve hair setting products, such as any hair gel or hair setting wax, to get the desired look.
Deciding to get the sisterlocks is a tough decision as it requires proper hair care and maintenance. So, if you are interested in getting this, you must need to complete your part of the research and know the pros and cons of this style.
Difference Between Sisterlocks and Locs
There is nothing to confuse between sisterlocks and traditional locks as they have distinct differences. Here are some significant differences that one must know before choosing between the sisterlocks and the other type of dreadlocks.
1: Interlocking tool
Sisterlocks are formed by the interlocking tool, which creates thin rope-like structures from the natural hair without any gel or hair product. On the other hand, the traditional locs, including the micro locs, faux locs, and others, are formed using different methods such as palm-rolling, two-strand twists, interlocking, braiding, and curling, twisting, or more. In addition, the locs are set by using several hairs setting products such as hair wax, hair setting spray, or gel.
2: Structure
Sisterlocks are the type of dreadlocks that give thinner structure to the locs. The locs are thin compared to other dread styles such as micro locs and traditional locks. As the interlocking tool is used, you can achieve the desired diameter in this type.
3: Installation time
The installation time is one significant difference between the sisterlocks and other dreadlock types. Being thin in texture, this type of locs takes more than actual time, and it takes extra minutes to create the thin locs from the tool compared to other methods, which don't take much time. In addition, it depends upon the hair texture, hair length, and volume as well.
4: Versatility
The traditional loc styles are not easy to manage as the locs are brittle, so they can't be styled easily. In the sisterlocks, the locs are thin and soft, so they can be easily managed in any other style. Get as many locs as you want to get your dreamy fuller look. Install 400 or more locs using the interlocking technique.
5: Cost
Another major difference between the traditional locs and the sisterlocks is the cost. In the sisterlocks, 400 locs take much time and start from $500 and go to $1000. The price depends upon your consultant's training skills and experience.
Pros and Cons of Sisterlocks
The individuals getting the locs for the first time may feel confused about their decision of locs type selection. Whether you go with the sisterlocks or any other type of deadlocks, you must know the advantages and disadvantages of the style. From coast to hair maintenance, many other factors must be considered. It is noticeable that the locs are more of a lifestyle than mere hairstyle. Here are sisterlocks pros and cons that you must know:
Pros of Sisterlocks
1: Freedom:
First and foremost, the locs allow you to style them as you wish. Further, don't worry about the weather changes impact on the locs. Most people with the locs are scared of the rain as it messes with their hair. In the case of sisterlocks, you can still style them and make them look good with the retightening. Additionally, no need to worry about any hair treatment to maintain their shape and condition.
2: Versatility:
The sisterlocks give your hair a fuller look with a variety of hairstyles. Keep your hair free and wild, or style them in braids, ponytails, or high buns. There are endless ways of styling the sisterlocks as compared to other dreadlocks. Just be creative and do your thing.
3: Natural:
No more need to use numerous hair care products for their maintenance. Sisterlocks look better when neat and clean without any product application. Avoid the harsh ingredients in hair products that have some side effects.
Cons of Sisterlocks:
1: Loctician:
Finding the sister locks consultant with the proper knowledge, skills, and experience is challenging. Most people make mistakes in getting the locs services from people who are not qualified enough. Such individuals harm natural hair as they lack basic knowledge. Further, they give no hair care maintenance and advice on your hair health and strength.
2: Initial cost:
A con of choosing this hairstyle is that you will need capital to start this trend. You may need $500 for the initial installation followed by retightening sessions, which don't cost less than $80.
3: Lifestyle:
Sisterlocks need you be active with your lifestyle as it is a high-maintenance hairstyle. It requires a proper hair care routine while washing, combing, and sleeping. So, you will need to follow a strict lifestyle with this look.
How Much do Sisterlocks Cost?
The locs cost differentially depending upon the type of locs, hair texture, length, and volume. Further, the locs also vary depending upon your location and your consultant. Depending on their skills and experience, some hair consultants charge for the installation sessions, retightening sessions, and more. On the other hand, some hair experts take charge according to the hair measurements.
On average, hair professionals charge approximately $500 to $800, and the retightening sessions are charged separately. So, look for all these factors while choosing this hairstyle and finding the right hair professional.
How Long Does Sisterlocks Last?
Like the other dreadlock styles, sisterlocks are permanent hairstyles that grow with time. With proper care, the hairstyle lasts for years. In addition, the retightening sessions help the locs develop and grow. You will need to get the locs retightened every six weeks. Further, you can learn this skill through YouTube videos and easily save some bucks.
The sisterlocks last for almost 4-5 years if you take care of them properly. The most important factor in their maintenance while sleeping, washing, and combing the locs. The hair stylists suggest covering the whole head while sleeping at night with a bonnet, durag, or a satin cape. In addition, the locs need extra hydration to prevent frizz. So, use hair essential oils such as Jojoba oil, castor oil, or any other oil to keep them moisturized. Likewise, avoid sleeping with the wet locs as it can trigger mildew formation, leading to fungal infections.
How are Sisterlocks Installed?
Locks installation is the first part of the locs journey, which continues with so many steps such as locs retightening and maintenance., but if you are a novice and have no idea how to install the natural sisterlocks, here is the guide. With the following easy and simple steps, you can transform your look in no time. Follow these steps:
1: Consultation
First and foremost, you must consult with a qualified sisterlocks specialist. Share concerns about the particular hairstyle during this early appointment. Once you get the answers, you can ask the specialist to place five to ten sisterlocks in your hair. This will assist you in determining which sisterlocks design is most suited to your hair structure.
2: Sisterlocs installation session
Your entire installation session will commence when your sisterlocks consultant evaluates your hair and determines the appropriate locking pattern for you. Depending on your initial hair length, head size, and density, it might take anywhere from 15 to 24 hours to finish. Sitting on a chair for so long may not be ideal, but the benefits will be worth it.
3: Follow-up appointment
After the sister locks installation, you must arrange a follow-up visit now that you have a beautiful set of sisterlocks. During this visit, the hair professional will review the work and may make necessary improvements according to your hair. The professional will also reveal self-grooming suggestions to help you maintain your look. Moving ahead, you'll need to schedule an appointment every four to six weeks to have your locks retightened as they develop.
Sisterlocks Hairstyles
The versatile style comes with various looks that you can easily create at home without any hair tools. Here are some latest styling ideas that you must try:
Side swept sisterlocks:
The tiny locs are super soft and manageable. You can rock the side-swept look by combing them to a side. The hairstyle is simple, classy, and elegant and can stay for hours on thin locs by setting them with the hair setting spray or wax.
Half rolls:
Go creative with your thin locs by creating small half-rolls. This is an old yet classy style of the 60s that you can rock at formal dinners and events. This vintage-inspired half roll gives the freedom of styling locks in no time.
Faux sisterlocs style:
Flaunt your sisterlocks with the glamorous and dramatic hairstyle in a short faux hawk look. Go short this summer with this classy look. Plus, the extra color in the locs will complement this hairstyle.
How to Care for Sisterlocks
Taking care of the locs is the ultimate way to keep them for long. Every kind of locs requires proper cleaning and retwisting. During the retightening sessions, washing them well using residue shampoo prevents many issues. Moreover, yearly detox treatment is suitable for removing weak hair and preventing itchy scalp and dryness. Further, some activities can help you care for your locs.
1: Moisturize
Moisture is a vital part of locs for keeping them soft. If you face dryness at any phase of your locs, remember that your skin is facing dryness and dandruff. So, first of all, drink enough water to keep your body hydrated. Use essential hair oils for head massage. Use oil on the locs before taking a shower, so they don't lose their shine.
2: Retightening
One of the critical hair maintenance practices is the retightening of the locs. All types of dreadlocks require retightening and retwisting after a few months., It is helpful as it keeps the look good in condition and preserves their structure. Further, it prevents the early unraveling of the locs.
3: Washing
Many individuals have a misconception about the washing practice. The hair professionals suggest washing the locs not more than twice a week. In the early stages, the locs are immature and prone to breakage. Try to avoid washing the locs in the first three months. But once the locs develop and grow, try to keep them clean by washing the locs. Use leave0in conditioner to make them soft, shiny, and fresh.
Final Words
To sum up, the whole guide will be enough to decide if you want this hair look or not. Remember that no matter what types of your locs, you must take care of your hair for the best results.
Teresa Elam
March 08, 2024
You don’t say if your hair needs to be virgin completely in order to begin the style. Mine is relaxed with about an inch if new growth. Do I need to cut the relaxed portion out?