"My cousin's friend does locs on the side." "The stylist at the salon down the street said she could maintain my locs." I hear versions of this all the time, usually after something has gone wrong. Here's the truth: there's a significant difference between a hairstylist who "does locs" and a trained, experienced loctician.
What Makes a Loctician Different?
Specialized Training
A professional loctician has dedicated training specifically for locked hair. This includes:
- Understanding different loc methods
- Knowledge of the locking process stages
- Repair techniques for damaged locs
- Recognition of problems before they become serious
General cosmetology school typically covers minimal (if any) loc training.
Experience with Different Hair Types
Locs behave differently on different textures. An experienced loctician has worked with:
- Fine and thick hair
- Loose and tight curl patterns
- Various scalp conditions
- Different stages of maturity
This breadth of experience means better results for you.
Problem Recognition
A skilled loctician can spot issues you might miss:
- Early signs of thinning
- Potential weak spots
- Locs starting to combine
- Product buildup
- Mildew or mold concerns
Catching problems early prevents bigger issues later.
Common Issues From Inexperienced "Locticians"
Poor Sectioning
Uneven or illogical parting patterns lead to:
- Locs that combine as they grow
- Uneven thickness throughout
- Awkward styling limitations
- Eventually needing to restart sections
Too-Tight Retwisting
The most common damage I see. Signs include:
- Thinning at the roots
- Locs that bump up at the root
- Pain during and after appointments
- Broken locs
Wrong Products
Using heavy butters, beeswax, or gel leads to:
- Product buildup
- Locs that won't fully lock
- Mildew risk
- Difficult-to-reverse damage
Incorrect Technique
Each loc method requires specific handling. Wrong technique causes:
- Locs that unravel repeatedly
- Inconsistent appearance
- Longer-than-necessary locking time
- Frustration and wasted money
Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Loctician
1. **How long have you specialized in locs?**
Look for multiple years of focused experience, not just "I've done a few."
2. **Can I see photos of your work?**
A professional has a portfolio. Look for mature locs, not just fresh installs.
3. **What method do you recommend for my hair type?**
The right answer depends on your specific hair. If they suggest the same method for everyone, that's concerning.
4. **How often do you recommend retwisting?**
If they say every 2 weeks, walk away. This damages locs.
5. **What products do you use?**
They should be able to explain why they use specific products and what's in them.
6. **Can I speak with long-term clients?**
Established locticians have clients who've been with them for years.
The Real Cost of "Cheap" Loc Work
That $30 retwist might seem like a deal until:
- You need loc repair from too-tight twisting ($$$)
- Buildup requires professional removal ($$$)
- Thinning requires cutting and restarting (priceless time lost)
- You're starting over after preventable damage (emotional cost)
Quality loc work is an investment in your hair's future. Years down the road, you'll still have healthy, beautiful locs if you invest in proper care now.
What to Expect From a Professional Loctician
Consultation First
Before touching your hair, a professional discusses:
- Your loc goals
- Your hair type and history
- Your lifestyle and maintenance capacity
- Realistic expectations
Honest Assessment
A real professional will tell you:
- If your ideas are realistic
- If something is wrong with your current locs
- If you're retwisting too frequently
- The truth, even when it's not what you want to hear
Ongoing Education
Your loctician should teach you:
- How to care for your locs at home
- What products to use and avoid
- Warning signs to watch for
- How to protect your locs
Consistent Quality
Each visit should maintain the same standard. Your locs should be getting better over time, not worse.
Red Flags to Watch For
Run if your loctician:
- Rushes through your appointment
- Uses heavy, waxy products
- Retwists extremely tightly
- Doesn't listen to your concerns
- Can't answer questions about their technique
- Pushes for too-frequent appointments
My 15-Year Commitment to Excellence
At Kelatic Hair Lounge, I've dedicated over 15 years to mastering the art of locs. Every technique I use is refined through years of experience. Every product I recommend has been tested. Every client gets my full attention and expertise.
Your locs deserve more than "someone who does hair on the side." They deserve a true specialist who understands the journey you're on and has the skills to guide you.
Book a consultation and experience the difference professional expertise makes.