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Breakageīreakage happens when using a drying hair gel on a regular basis. Most people use gel to make the outer layer of their locs appear smoother, but using a butter or cream is the gentlest option for healthy locs. When used for twisting, the hair becomes unnaturally hard and stiff. If you want locs that actually move, don’t use a gel.
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In locs, the flakes are tough to wash completely out and can be a painstakingly long process, according to Lockology. Hair gel causes small white flakes, especially when used frequently for hair styling purposes. Depending on the individual, this may or may not negatively impact the form and hold of what you’ve taken so long to create. BuildupĪll of the product and elemental build-up (that gel draws to your scalp”> causes you to have to wash your locs more frequently.
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These ingredients in shampoos will also blast out the dirt from your pores, encouraging growth at a faster rate. Look into shampoos made with peppermint, eucalyptus, or tea tree extracts if you notice your scalp feeling itchier after starting the locking process. Hair gel is typically made with the kind of alcohols and other synthetic ingredients that not only clog pores, but dry your scalp. They are drying to your scalp and prevent your hair from growing. It is not water soluble–this can lead to some build-up over time that resists washes.
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The majority of these shine waxes are made with petroleum as the primary ingredient.” While petroleum-based products are OK for re-twisting every 4 to 6 weeks, it is not recommended using one in the beginning of the locking phase. This is, however, a risk in striving for your healthiest locs possible.ĭ says “Many products on the market that mention they work for dreadlocks are actually intended to add shine and fragrance and to make look neater but don’t acually help the dreading process at all. Hair gel is often used to begin the locking process and then maintain them throughout the journey. One of the top choices is actually a product that was intended for use on hair: hair gel. Mayonnaise, honey, rubber cement, chewing gum, candle wax, and even toothpaste–all of these things have been rumored to help start locs.
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