Microlocs are essentially locs that are smaller than traditional locs. On average that size of mature traditional locs are the diameter of a pencil. This means that the size of microlocs can vary from the diameter of a shoelace to the diameter of a drinking straw. Also, because of the wide range of sizing there are multiple ways to maintain microlocs.
Types of Microlocs
The most common methods for starting microlocs are with interlocking, braids or twists. However, microlocs can also be started with coils but it is not common
Microlocs Started With Interlock
Using the interlocking method to start microlocs is great for fine textured hair or for those that desire the smallest version of microlocs.
Microlocs Started With Braids
Starting microlocs from braids is common when you have a long length of hair at installation or your hair texture is fine and twists will not hold.
Microlocs Started With Twists
Microlocs started with twists are ideal for medium to larger sizes of microlocs and hold well for most textures of hair. The benefit to starting microlocs with twists is, generally speaking, they’re large enough to be maintained with interlocking or Palm rolling.
Benefits of Microlocs
Microlocs are a great alternative to Sisterlocks and are often times much more affordable. In addition to the cost-savings, microlocs offer advantages such as versatility, neatness, and fullness.
Curly Style on Microlocs
Versatility: The small size of microlocs often creates hundreds of locs, which means that the styling possibilities are almost endless.
Neatness: Microlocs maintained with interlocking will stay neater for extended periods of time, compared to retwisting, because the sections are smaller, which means less frizz at the roots.
Fullness: Microlocs generally result in at least 150-300 locs, depending on the size of your head and which size of microlocs you chose, therefore they will instantly create fullness and volume.
Are Microlocs Right For You?
While there are many benefits to microlocs one of the disadvantages, especially for smaller sized microlocs, is the cost and/or time commitment required for maintenance. When considering if mircolocs are right for you, I would highly suggest considering the following factors:
Active Lifestyle: You should consider microlocs if you have an active lifestyle and are interested in locs that will stay neater for longer periods of time and/or you enjoy shampooing your hair frequently.
Cost of Maintenance: If you currently have a budget that includes paying for your hair (i.e. – going to the salon), you should consider microlocs either maintained with interlocking or palm-rolling. However, if you would rather maintain your locs at home, you should consider larger microlocs that you can maintain with palm-rolling.
Time for Maintenance: Generally, microlocs result in over 100 locs and the time necessary to maintain that amount of locs can be a lot, especially if you’re interlocking. You have to ensure that you can commit to that amount of time (typically 6-8 hours minimum) every few months.
Volume & Fullness: The more locs that you have, the less likely you are to see a lot of scalp being shown, which creates fullness to the hair. So, if your goal is fullness, microlocs are definitely an option to consider.
Interested in Sisterlocks: If the size of Sisterlocks are too small, but you like idea of smaller sized locs, microlocs are a great alternative.
