Locs, also known as dreadlocks, are a hairstyle that consists of hair strands that have been coiled, braided, twisted, or palm-rolled to create a rope-like appearance. The term "dreadlocks" is believed to be associated with the slave trade, a period in time when slaves didnt have the time or resources to properly groom their hair. However, locs have been around for millennia, with some of the earliest evidence of locs dating back to India in 1800BC.
Locs are easier to create on Nubian or African hair than on straight Caucasian hair, and they prevent the strands from losing moisture and can last for a very long time. Traditional locs are usually no bigger than a medium-size box braid and require little twisting or manipulation, making them one of the most popular types of locs.
Dreadlocks often hold spiritual meaning for the wearer and are cultivated rather than formed. They often stem from Rastafarian beliefs, which use the style to separate believers from the rest of society. Dreadlocks have a more natural appearance than locs and are often less tidy.
To care for locs, it is important to keep them clean and moisturized. Locs go through a series of stages, typically five, but the upkeep on traditional locs is not super involved. There are several different types of locs, including traditional, sister, micro, and faux locs, each with a unique look and feel.
