Despite the progress that has been made in the acceptance of natural hair styles and choices, locks (dreadlocks) still remains a misunderstood option. People will say all sorts of things about locks. And people will tell you to do all sorts of things to start  and maintain them.

Here is the real deal.

The size that you decide to make your locks will depend on many things such as:

• How many locks you want.
• What method you plan to use to start and maintain your locks.
• What your desired finished look is.
• How you plan to style your hair during the locking process and once your hair is locked.
• Whether or not you plan to do it all yourself, get help with the initial parting, or get “professional” help with the whole thing.
• Whether or not you plan to maintain them at home
• How much money you are willing to spend.

The way you part your hair will lay the foundation for the size of your locks and it will also impact maintenance later on.  There are several ways to part your hair for locks.

If you will finger twisting or palm rolling your hair you will need to select a holding agent. The holding agent is to help keep the locks in place as they set especially if you have soft, fine or resistant hair. It is important to choose a water-soluble holding agent that is easily washed away. Some natural examples are flax seed or aloe vera gel.

Maybe you have heard/read things like: “Natural and locking your hair are almost the same.” “The easiest natural hair option is locked hair.”

While sometimes that seems to be the general perception. These thoughts are not necessarily true. Having tasted both worlds, I can honestly say that you will always have to do your hair. Both having locks and keeping your hair looking nice natural requires a degree of work.