Interlocking Method: Technique For Starting and Maintaining Locs

The Interlocking method of starting locs is an alternative to the more traditional palm rolling loc method.  It’s one that I highly recommended because palm rolled locs are more susceptible to breakage due to the stress of repeated rolling and twisting of the hair at the roots.   Interlocking is also more ideal for individuals who have a finer hair texture, an active lifestyle or scalp discomfort that requires frequent shampooing.

Read: Starting Locs: Palm Rolling Method

The process of interlocking locs requires a tool appropriately called an interlocking tool. It is made from a durable, flexible plastic. There are some metal latch-hook tools used for crocheting that some recommend instead. But they should be avoided because they snag and pull hairs from the scalp causing significant damage. (A proper interlocking tool for the hair can be found at www.drkariwilliams.com/store)

Interlocking strengthens the lock at the base or root. Locs “gain weight” and get heavier as they get longer.  As they grow in length and increase in size the base of each loc should support the new weight of your hair. A small square, circular or triangular section of hair is crocheted into what looks like a round braid.  Hair is locked counter-clockwise to maintain roundness and produce a look that is more consistent in size and shape throughout.

READ: Shampooing and Conditioning Locs

No combing is required and the hair will go through the same matting and budding process as it does when the hair is twisted. The only difference is maintenance is recommended every 6-8 weeks, you can wash your hair by yourself without fear of locs coming undone.  Interlocking allows you to shampoo the hair on a regular basis without the concern of excessive frizzing and the need to re-twist.  Additionally, all air pockets are removed from the loc during the interlocking process creating a smoother loc free from lumps that can sometimes form during the twisting process when hair starts to bud.

With interlocking, as your hair begins to bud, your stylist will maintain your locks by interlocking any new growth, training your hair to lock with existing buds and reinforcing the lock at the roots.

Can you interlock previously palm rolled locs?

I am often asked if you can alternate maintenance by twisting and interlocking your hair and the answer is, yes. For people who like the look of palm-rolled locs, I recommend interlocking the hair at least once a quarter to break up the continuity of the twisting and reinforce the base of the loc to prevent breakage.

For more information of the technique of interlocking and the proper interlocking tool, visit: http://www.drkariwilliams.com/seminars/loc-training-seminar/

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