Lock Advice Video

For those that are considering locks...Enjoy!

Rep ya products: Shea Butter

This woman uses Shea butter on her hair, and really likes how well it works for her. I want to start posting Black women who love their products despite how others feel about them, so that perhaps some of the taboos can go out of the window. Do what works for you!

Loc Butter: Rep your favorite products!

I have not made product junkie status yet. It is not something that I aspire to, but I have been looking to try a few new products. I want to know what the deal is with loc butter! So these are two new products I am looking to try:

Jane Carter Twist & Lock

and...

Carol's Daughter Loc Butter

A lot of people have concerns about build up with using butters, but let me tell you, I have taken down a few sets of locks that have started to bud, and I have found build up in the sets that I have take down from using Taliah Waajid, IC fantasia gel, and Organic Root Stimulator Lock & Twist. There is going to be build up after while. It seems inevitable. I have had the privilege of smelling the Carol's Daughter Loc Butter, and let me just say...It smells like Orange Heaven! I am going to go against the grain and give it a shot. I have encountered people with marvelous sets of locks the re-twist with everything from gels to loc butters, to raw unrefined shea butter. You have to find what works for you! I personally want to use a natural product without all of the strange chemicals used to produce a gel-like consistency. I will buy some and rate these products, so be on the look out for reviews!

Remember When: India.Arie

This fabulous lady gave me so much hope growing up through her lyrics and also her image. As a young girl, I was fascinated by her queenly locks. Since she came out with her wonderful cd featuring classics like "Video" and "Strength, Courage, and Wisdom" we have seen her hair go through a transformation that has included her cutting her locks. This is a time for us to remember when the fabulous India.Arie sported her locks along with her guitar.

Feature Journey: Melissa's Journey

This BEAUTIFUL woman is my sister, right here! I'm so glad she has decided to share her lock journey with us! Enjoy!

Melissa's hair relaxed

The Beautiful Melissa locked

My loc Journey

I call it a journey, because my experience has been nothing short of that.

Roots

Reflecting on my childhood, I recall crying while my mother, busy perming my hair, said "If you want to be beautiful, you have to feel the pain; that is the price of beauty" immediately thoughts like “huh?, that sounds stupid”, “I hate perms!”, and “you are just burning me and making excuses”, flood my head, because my Mother is a Jamaican woman and I would never dare think those thoughts aloud. I told myself that day, I would never make my child do something like this, and when I am older, I will never use a perm again.

The Big Chop

In college I got into the habit of perming my hair whenever I felt like it, that would be anywhere from every 6 months to a year. If I maintained my hair at all it was with a flat iron and the help of some loving colleagues. I would keep my hair braided most of the time just because I didn’t like perming or messing with my hair. One day, in 2006, I had a freak accident; after taking out some Nubian Twists, I neglected to comb out my hair thoroughly, so when I proceeded to wash it, my hair locked up. I could not comb it out and I was devastated. My SWING Sister took me straight to the salon where a stylist proceeded to cut my hair off. She only needed to cut a bit off, but sitting in that chair I had an epiphany and instructed her to cut it all off. I went back to campus bald. EVERYONE and I do mean EVERYONE formulated their individual opinions about me (things weren’t how they are now in 2010 where being bald is the “in thing”); in some eyes I had become a Dom (dominant female in a homosexual relationship), lost my mind, and some people were bold enough to say that they thought a woman cutting her hair took away all of her beauty. All of those things didn’t really matter to me because I felt liberated.

New Growth

3 years later in 2009, I was still wearing my hair natural. It was difficult at times to manage, but to me, not more difficult than having a perm. I styled my hair in various ways, in what others regarded as “funky” and “different”, but never committed to locking my hair even though it was something I really wanted to do. In the back of my head all I could see was my Mother frowning at the mere thought of locking. September 2009, I was in a near death car accident in which I broke my nose, jaw, and hip. I was on bed rest, a walker, a wheelchair and then crutches; unable to walk for 8 months. It was the most tragic incident I ever experienced, but I learned a lot about myself and those around me during my recovery. I decided with all that I have been through and all of the lessons the Universe have provided for me, it was time to loc it all in. Due to my limited mobility, I didn’t have many options when it came to choosing a stylist, but on December 29, 2009 I started my locs.….that was just the beginning…

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As soon as the process began, I received some criticism from those around me, but my Mother was my biggest critic. She expressed to me the following among other things: she hated my hair and could never think something so disgusting could be beautiful, she would not have a dread living in her house, and I would now be subjected to racial profiling and would be shot and killed. Ridiculous, right? She told my boyfriend that she didn’t like his hair (which is also locked) and even went as far as trying to unlock my twists. Smh. The most hurtful thing was when she turned around after church and said “You still have that mop on your head? That’s why I can’t stand to look at you.” Throughout all of this, my hair is STILL locking up and the journey continues…At the end of the day you have to look at yourself in the mirror and love who and what you see; I am content with both. I love my locs and embrace every aspect of the process you have to go through. I would advise anyone considering locking up, to make sure you are ready for certain things because the locking process is real, and if you are looking for overnight locs, try braids before you try and commit to the real deal.

Love and Light.

Melissa

Remember When: Muhsinah & Yahzarah

So this is a post dedicated to ladies that had locks but have since cut them. Aw Naw! But we are going to give these Sistas some lock love for the locks that once were. Singers Muhsinah and Yahzarah both affiliated with the Foreign Exchange are ladies that have rocked the locks.

Muhsinah with Phonte of FE (Love them both!)

Here is a video of a song they have together (her locks are gone at this point)

Yahzarah also known as Purple St. James (Love her!)

Lock Musician: Rizpah Lowe

http://www.rizpah.net/

This beautiful jazz harpist has an amazing set of locks! Check out her website to read a biography on this fabulous woman!

Lock Business: Ladene Clark

All of these stitchy fashions were constructed by Ladene Clark (pictured in her creations below). This Atlanta girl crochets and knits her fabulous wearable art...check out her work!

Lock Model: Kumia Lee

Kumia is a beautiful model from Antigua with gorgeous thick locks.

Product Review: Jason Natural Jojoba Shampoo

While I am willing to try different gels for my retwists, one thing I have not given up on is my Jason shampoo and conditioner. I love them. I was looking for a natural/organic product to wash my hair with the first time I went natural. I tried a few different things since I'm located in a place that is all about going green and having organic everything so along with my newfound love of organic Sunbutter and organic Late July Sandwich cookies came my love for a delightful Jason hair wash. I usually use the Jason Biotin Shampoo and Conditioner which leaves my head tingling a little bit with a slight mint smell that I find oh so refreshing! Can't promise that you will looove these products as much as I do for a simple hair wash, but hey, I would give it a try. My hair never feels coated or waxy after I use these products, and my hair texture is what it is after a wash so no strange texture changes with this product. This product is $8.97 on their website...you can find these products at your health conscious/environmentally friendly grocer for a similar price.

What are comb coils?

Some folks have asked me about the "little twist things" on my head. They are wondering what they are, and so I wanted to post a video about the comb coils or comb twists that I have to show people what they are and a way to start your locks or wear twists as a style. Here is a video of a stylist that I found on youtube that shows how she comb coils her clients' hair.

The Foreign Exchange: I wanna know

So let me say...Phonte is from NC (alright Southern boy)! The Foreign Exchange Performed at my college, what an interesting and wonderful night! The group was so awesome and gave a great performance. Here is their video "I wanna know"...two locked sistas in it. Got to give some love to my boys who love the locks.

Lock Activist: Majora Carter

Whose got the S on her chest? Majora Carter...

Majora Carter is the founder of the non-profit environmental advocacy organization Substainable South Bronx (SSBx). She owns a green economic consulting firm, The Majora Carter Group and is making bank for appearances and speeches. (Who isn't making a lot of  "green" money when attempting to "green" the world?) Whether or not you agree with her cause or her actions in attempting to support the community she grew up in...she has a lovely head of locks and that is what we are celebrating! She is a woman who wears her lovely natural hair proudly when attempting to save the world and THAT is admirable.

Lock Model: Unknown

Gorgeous locks! Another inspiring hair model.

Caribbean Lock Love: Jeanille Bonterre (Trinidad)

This beautiful Sista from Trinidad is an entertainment correspondant with gorgeous locks!

Lock Inspiration

Queen Sy

I feel the creativity that people have with their locks, especially this Sista.

Caribbean Lock Love: Barbados

Soca Queen Alison Hinds...You know what it is! Check out video "Roll it".

Lock Feature: Vanessa

Name: Vanessa

State: New Jersey

When did you decide to start your journey?

I started my natural journey in January 2008. A year later, I decided to lock it up on January 23, 2009. 

What method did you use to start your locks?

Double strand twists.

What is the best thing about being locked?

The versatility! I love the freedom of being able to just get up, spritz or rinse my hair, and take on the day with a smile on my face and a swagger with my locs. 

What is your favorite product? What does it do for your hair?

I’ve always made my own hair products since day 1 of being natural. All I’ve ever put on my natural tresses and on my locs is water, coconut oil, olive oil, vegetable glycerin, and essential oils (my favorite is peppermint!). My favorite product has to be water. It really livens up my hair and gives it such a plump and refreshing look.  I also love coconut oil because it makes my hair smell like a pina colada! Yum! 

What is your favorite lock style to rock?

I haven’t rocked that many lock styles yet, I’m waiting for my hair to get longer and more mature before I really start having fun style-wise. However I do like wearing my locs up in pig tails, they are so cute and wild!

Who is your lock inspiration?

Oh boy, there are so many loc beauties that I admire. As predictable as this sounds but my number one lock inspiration is Lauryn Hill. 

What message do you have for your lock Sisters and Brothers?

This is what I have learned throughout my journey so far:

1)      Less is more: all that locs really need essentially is water to keep clean and to keep locs moisturized, and oil to seal in that moisture. The less you put on your locs the more it will flourish.

2)      Water is your friend, don’t be afraid to get those locs wet and clean!

3)      Don’t obsess over having “perfect” locs. I don’t believe locs were meant to be perfect. By nature they are imperfect, but that is what makes them so beautiful. Not that there is anything wrong with keeping them neat and polished, but at the end of the day, they are locs and they will be sometimes nappy and frizzy and fuzzy, embrace it.

4)      And finally, BE PATIENT! Nothing will make your hair grow faster or your locs loc quicker. Embrace the stages, because each stage will only happen once.

Lock Artist: Valerie June

So...Valerie June has a lot of Spice. Her blues/bluegrass/country music is quirky, and beautiful! Her freeform locks are certainly favorites for numerous lockers everywhere! Check Sista out!

Youtubers ya need to know: Chescalocs

Let me just say...I love Franchesca's hair! She has some interesting Youtube videos as well. Some hair related...some eh, not so much. Check her out as Chescalocs on Youtube!

Lock Feature: Kay

Name: Kay

State:  Alabama

My Channel           http://www.youtube.com/nappyheadedblackgirl

My Blog                http://nappyheadedblackgirl.blogspot.com/

When did you decide to start your journey? Why?

I returned to my roots in July 2004 after transitioning one year with braids. I kinda just got tired of the madness. If you take a look at my Fotki, you'll see I had almost every style you could imagine! Finally, I said, "Let's try something different."

As for the dreads, those came to life Oct 27, 2007. Honestly, dreading had never crossed my mind. I was simply gonna grow the fro as big as possible. Then one day I just woke up and knew....no questions, no doubts, no pro/con lists. I was gonna dread. Had them done within the week.
What method did you use to start your locks?

I started with two-strand twists but have been a freeformer ever since. It's funny how things change. When I started out, I had a clear pic of how I wanted my hair to look...literally! I printed out a picture of a woman whose manicured dreads I admired. I wanted mine to be the same size and length, and had every intention of having cultivated dreads.

As I continued on my path, I realized that route wasn't for me. I've never been one for elaborate hairstyles and having every hair in place; I don't know what made me think I'd care to have dreads like that. I guess I was just so in awe of that woman's hair that I wanted mine to be beautiful like hers. But then I realized, my hair is beautiful like hers.

What is the best thing about being locked?

Well, what isn't great about it? lol For me, it's being able to be comfortable in my own skin, naturally. Especially as a freeformer, I like that my hair reflects who I am. I feel unique and powerful. This is me; take it or leave it.
What is your favorite product? What does it do for your hair?

Any type of oil. I am mucho low maintenance. My "regime" is v05 or Suave shampoo and conditioner, and oil. Nothing else. I usually use vitamin E or jojoba oil. I'm working toward simplifying even more and using one product to cleanse both hair and body.

What is your favorite lock style to rock?

This may sound strange, but my favorite "style" is not actually a style. I like to just wear my hair free, like it is in the picture. No adornments, no maintenance and no accessories. I call it "The Mop." I love it because it just looks wild and untamed and nappy. I feel like I'm being true to myself. Makes me walk a little taller ;-)

Who is your lock inspiration?

I am my own inspiration. Seeing my hair grow and evolve every day fascinates me. The more I learn about it, the more I appreciate it.

What message do you have for your lock Sisters and Brothers?

3 things:

Lather your hair

Please wash your hair people! This is the #1 dread myth. Dirty hair is a breeding ground for bacteria and dirt. This is why people think dreads are dirty and nasty. There is no such thing as "letting your hair settle." It may come out when you wash...totally natural. You twist it back up and keep steppin'!

Learn your hair

Your hair is not like mine or his or even your parent's. Every head is different. Please don't get discouraged because certain products do nothing for you or your hair doesn't look like hers or it's not growing "fast enough." Learn what works for you and the characteristics of your hair.

Love your hair

Your hair is unique and beautiful, just like you. Love it and appreciate it.

Please check out Sista's blog and youtube videos! She is a beautiful Sista with fabulous freeform locks!

Lock Artist: Salakida

This locked singer/songwriter is a beauty! Check this Sista out!

Lock Feature: Sarah Williams

Check out Locentricity's first lock feature:

Sarah's fabulous locks!

Rocking kinky twists

Sarah Williams

Ohio University in Athens, Ohio
When did you decide to start your journey?
I started transitioning in my senior year of high school and I start my locs the end of my freshman year of college (April 2008).

What method did you use to start your locks?
Two-strand twists
what is the best thing about being locked?
The versatility and the swagger that comes with it. lol

What is your favorite product? What does it do for your hair?
I’m a big Organic Root Stimulator fan so anything by them also I love essential oils and Apple Cider Vinegar to clarify my hair.

What is your favorite lock style to rock?
My fierce loc-hawk! Also I’m addicted to curls, pipe cleaners are my fave.

Who is your lock inspiration?
bronzegoddess01 on youtube. I LOVE HER!

What message do you have for your lock Sisters and Brothers?
Enjoy it and wear your hair with pride!

ALSO, check out Sarah Williams' lock inspiration, Bronzegoddess01 on youtube!

Looking for a Blog Feature!

I'm looking for College Lockers to feature on my blog! The feature would include a picture of your locks and seven questions about your lock experience! If you are interested go to Nappturality.com and Private Message Ladylock28.

Now Locked must we give up the Shop? (Beauty Salon)

The Black hair salon has not only served as a place where Black women can come to beautify themselves, it has served as a place to exercise creativity, talk about the latest issues envolving the community, talk about world issues, and shape the way we think about ourselves as Black people. If you grew up in the salon, how many times did you hear about so-and-so's wedding, what celebrity lost weight, what is wrong with today's Black youth, and that your hair was either manageable or unmanageable compared to your mother's or your sister's. It could be a place where the spin of the salon chair was comforting, the sink bowl (though uncomfortable) was familiar, the wonderful scent of hair oil was on you to stay all day, and the heat of a dryer felt nice on a wet head. Ladies would admire your hair, and the men that came in would also. Depending on where you went, you could walk out with a pair of sunglasses and a bootleg movie, maybe a purse, and it was all fun, and played a significant role to your life experience...for many...to the individuals Black experience. So, I must say that now as a natural, I find the natural salon a comforting place and I am in favor of the natural salon as well as DIY. I have opted not to go often as a locktress...BUT...I will continue to go. I think the natural salon can be a wonderful place because all of the same things that were comforting can be achieved without the negative ideas that the fro, twist, braids, or locks that you came in with is not beautiful. A place where your nappy is perfectly manageable and gorgeous. It is a celebratory place that celebrates the natural you, and gives you a trendy and healthy look. Now, I know there are some places with crazy lockticians that say all kinds of things to you to get that paper, but that is in any service. Finding the right and affordable place is key. It is a place that can still be embraced (if one chooses to spend the time and money) to gain a unique cultural experience, POSITIVE reinforcement, and come out with fabulous hair.

Jazz and Locks (Sista Vocalists)

There are some awesome Jazz vocalists that are either currently rocking the locks or have rocked them. Hearing, Singing, Playing...the music of your people will bring you home (even if it is only for a moment for some) Love yourselves like these women love the music of their people and have an affinity for a Black aesthetic. And guess who is joining the pack?

Dianne Reeves

Dee Dee Bridgewater

Dee Alexander

Cassandra Wilson

Caribbean Lock Love: Trinidad

Black Love from Trinidad. Check this out! Yes!

Literary Lock: Kopano Matlwa

This is Beautiful Sista Kopano Matlwa from South Africa. Author of book, "Coconut" (2006) Inspired by Toni Morrison, she encourages young people to just get out there and write if they want to. She is also juggling her literary career with medical school. Do it Sista!

Lock Artist: Sara Tavares

Sara Tavares everybody...Beautiful Sista with locks with a beautiful voice. This song will make you feel good.

I Got Some Lock Love Today Y'all

I had a lovely experience today! I went to make some returns at a store, and while I was standing in line I was twisting my hair out of frustration (because today I have been having some problems...I'll explain) A lady with a scarf on her head was standing behind me, and she said "You are just starting?" I told that I had only had my starter locks for a little less than two months. Sensing my frustration, she told me that it is a process, and that I will make it through, I just need to hang in there. She took off her scarf and shook out her auburn colored locks. She told me that she had been growing them for two years, and she handed me the card of her loctician. After, she told me "Good luck with your process, you'll make it through," and she left the store. It made me so happy, because shortly after my wash, a couple of my newly combined locks unraveled, and I didn't like the way my hair was looking. I've been frustrated with my hair all day, and I was just complaining to my man that my hair would never lock! I was told that he went through all of this, and that it is going to be tough but...I basically need to suck it up, if I want locks, this is what its gon' be. Riiight? So I'm going to be positive about it all. It has been on the rough side lately. But I'm going to get it together.

Jazz and Locks

Let me just say, I am watching one fine locked Brotha play the drums, right now....much love. Anywho, I had the pleasure of being in the company of some amazing Jazz musicians that are doing wonderful things on the scene right now. Many of them sporting locks. We have seen many Jazz musicians rocking the locks Roy Hargrove, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Diane Reeves, Geri Allen...and while some of their locks have only been for a moment, they definately made a lasting impression. Now, young talent is springing up locked and ready to take on the scene. Let's reflect:

Croker on Trumpet...Check him out. (heard him this weekend)

Geri Allen

Roy Hargrove

Regina Carter

Mr. G. Clayton on the keys (heard him this weekend/Just bought his CD "Two Shade"-Check him out!)

Look at this Lock updo y'all!

I had my hair in a little pixit cut, and then a little baby fro for a couple of weeks. It has been a while since I've been able to rock multiple styles beyond adding an accessory. I'm excited to be able to do that again.

Lock Model: Janelle Gordon

Here are pictures of gorgeous locked Sista glamming it up, Janelle Gordon. She is a model with fabulous thick locks. Loves it!

Lock Business: Get some style in ya life

Check out Tufflikeiron.org (Tuff Like Iron)...

Here is Tuff Like Iron designer chillin' in Soho.