Microlocs Maintenance: Trusting the Process and Embracing the Journey
- Syreeta M. Scott
- Mar 24
- 4 min read
In today's natural hair movement, microlocs have become more than just a hairstyle—they are a journey of patience, self-discovery, and growth. While social media is filled with beautiful photos of fully matured microlocs, not enough is said about the emotional rollercoaster that can come with the early stages of this process.
This blog will guide you through the often-overlooked emotional aspects of starting and maintaining microlocs, offer best practices for Microlocs maintenance and reties, and share real-life encouragement from those who’ve made it through the “ugly stage” and come out on the other side loving their hair more than ever.
Understanding the Microlocs Journey
Microlocs are small, versatile locs that offer styling flexibility and a natural aesthetic. Like any hair journey, the path isn’t always smooth. Many individuals, especially those with fine or delicate edges, experience setbacks such as thinning, breakage, or uneven locking during the early stages.
These challenges are often amplified by factors like hormonal imbalances, stress, or improper maintenance. It’s important to understand that the beginning stages of microlocs are not the final result—they are the foundation.
Common Emotional Challenges
While most blogs highlight the empowerment that comes from locs, it’s also natural to feel moments of sadness, doubt, or frustration—especially when your locs don’t look like the “after” pictures yet.
For example, one client shared that despite loving her microlocs, she felt disheartened by breakage at her edges due to health and stress. Her stylist worked carefully to avoid putting tension in these areas, but the emotional impact was still real. Feelings like these are valid and more common than you think.
Microlocs Maintenance: What You Need to Know
Consistent Microlocs maintenance is key to keeping your locs healthy and thriving. Whether you're DIY or seeing a professional, staying on top of the process will help you avoid long-term damage and stay confident in your journey.
Best Practices Include:
1. Keep Up with Your Retie AppointmentsMicrolocs retie sessions are essential to maintaining a neat, healthy look. Going too long without a retie can lead to matting, bunching, or thinning. If you're maintaining your locs yourself, make sure to schedule a professional check-in 3 to 4 times a year for proper assessments.
2. Don’t Skip Braiding and BandingIn the early stages—especially before washing—braiding and banding are non-negotiable. They help prevent unraveling and preserve the integrity of your locs.
3. Choose the Right Products heavy creams or oils that cause buildup. Instead, opt for light, water-based moisturizers like Reeta’s Green Tea & Rosewater Spray to keep your locs hydrated without residue.
4. Don’t Over-Retighten or Style with TensionToo-tight styles or frequent reties can stress your edges and scalp. Be gentle and communicate with your stylist about your needs and any sensitivity.
5. Be Patient and Document Your JourneyTake progress photos every month. What feels like a slow change will amaze you when you look back over time.
Real-Life Encouragement: The “Ugly Stage” Isn’t Forever
Many of my clients lovingly refer to their early loc phase as the “ugly stage”—when the locs are short, frizzy, or uneven. One client told me she used to wear hats all the time because she felt insecure. A year later, she walks into every appointment grinning, saying she can’t stop looking at herself in the mirror.
Another client, who had thinning edges in the beginning, now confidently wears her hair in updos and styles she never thought possible. Her words: “I didn’t think I would ever love my hair this much.”
Building a Healthy Routine for Long-Term Success
Here are a few more tips to keep your Microlocs healthy and beautiful over time:
Sleep with a satin scarf or bonnet to protect your locs from friction.
Avoid excessive manipulation—the less you fiddle, the better.
Stay hydrated and eat well—your hair thrives from the inside out.
If you notice issues, address them early with your Microloc loctician or a trusted professional.
Don’t use waxes or gels that promise instant locking—these often cause buildup and long-term damage.
Choosing the Right Support System
If you're doing this on your own, you don’t have to go it alone. Book a check-in with a professional stylist a few times a year to make sure everything is on track. If you already have a Microloc loctician, be consistent with your appointments—cancellation and delay can lead to damage or thinning.
At Reeta’s Organics, we’re proud to walk with our clients at every stage of the journey. We specialize in Microlocs maintenance, reties, installations, and repair. Whether you’re just starting or looking for advanced care, we’re here for you.
Your Journey to Confidence and Crown Care
Your microlocs are more than a style—they’re a journey of confidence, patience, and self-love. It’s okay to have rough days. It’s okay to feel discouraged. But don’t stop. The transformation is happening, even if you can’t see it right away.
Trust the process. Celebrate small wins. And never forget—you’re growing something beautiful.
Need personalized support? Book a Microlocs consultation or retie with us today at
Reeta’s Organics or call us at 407-520-6292. Let’s take care of your crown together. 💛
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