5 mistakes that (almost) all new locs make and how to avoid them

Embarking on the dreadlock adventure is often a significant moment: a meaningful decision, a true personal turning point. Whether it's a desire for freedom, to assert one's identity, or simply because one finds it beautiful, starting dreadlocks marks a before and after. But like any new beginning, it comes with doubts… and sometimes mistakes we wish we could have avoided 😫

At My Pretty Locks , we support people every day as they begin their loc journey. We know the little struggles of the beginning, the actions we think we're doing right that end up hindering growth, or the products we buy without knowing if they're truly suitable. Here are the most common mistakes made by new loc wearers and, more importantly, how to avoid them to experience this transition with more confidence and peace of mind.

1. Neglecting your scalp 👀

Many people focus solely on the appearance of the dreadlocks themselves, forgetting that it all starts… at the root. A healthy scalp is the foundation of healthy dreadlocks. When it's not cleaned or moisturized enough, it can cause itching, dandruff, or slow growth. Taking care of your scalp means adopting simple but regular habits: a gentle shampoo here, a massage to stimulate circulation there, and occasionally, a detox treatment to eliminate accumulated residue.

2. Over-manipulating your dreadlocks

When you're starting out, you tend to want to constantly touch, twist, and adjust your locs. That's normal: you're observing every change, every new growth. But this excessive manipulation can weaken the hair, cause breakage, or prevent the locs from forming properly. One of the keys is learning to trust the process. Let your locs live, breathe, and evolve. The less you touch them, the better they'll grow. This doesn't mean doing nothing, but intervening gently, and only when it's truly necessary.

3. Making too many repetitions

The desire for a clean, neat look often leads to frequent touch-ups. However, too-frequent touch-ups can put excessive strain on the scalp, thin the roots, and even cause hair loss in the long run (Alopecia alert ⚠️). It's important to space out touch-ups! Some people wait 6 to 8 weeks before twisting their locs, others several months, and that might be better... The key is to listen to your hair, let it breathe, and understand that a little "regrowth" isn't a sign of neglect, but a natural part of the process.

4. Using unsuitable products

The temptation is strong to use the same products you used before getting dreadlocks. But not all of them are compatible with this new look. Some leave residue, others weigh them down, or create buildup that's difficult to remove, even after several washes. Opting for lightweight, natural formulas without mineral oils ensures your dreadlocks stay clean and supple. A good routine often starts with a few well-chosen products. That's why we've created simple yet effective routines for you to discover in our shop.

Wanting immediate results

It's probably the most human mistake: wanting it to "take" right away. But the journey of dreadlocks is anything but instantaneous. Every head is different, every hair has its own rhythm. Dreadlocks evolve, mature, change texture, and that's what makes them unique. Accepting this period of adjustment also means learning patience, listening to yourself, and respecting your own pace. And it's often in this slow transformation that a true attachment to your dreadlocks is born.

Conclusion

Making mistakes at the beginning is normal. But recognizing them is already a big step towards a more relaxed and suitable routine. At My Pretty Locks , we believe there are no "bad starts": only adjustments to make, knowledge to acquire, and above all, support to find.

If you're just starting out or still hesitating, know that we're here to support you. We offer suitable products, friendly advice, and soon a special box to help you get your dreadlock journey off to a great start.