Ok I am about to touch on a touchy subject. But I think it is important because a lot of people are trying to figure out whether or not to get SLs or the “Look for Less.”

When I first decided to get locks six years ago, I wanted Sisterlocks TM (I will be using SL or SLs from this point forward)

Like most people the price tag floored me. $600+ would make a mess of my budget. So I went with twists that I could do my self.

With my second set five years later I was going for the gold. I researched all that I could. By this time there were people who had many blogs and journal about their journeys with small locks. Some had SLs other started with other methods like braids or twists and maintained with a tool.

I started to waver between getting the “real deal” or starting with braids. I was living in an area where the closest SL Consultant was an hour and a half drive one-way. My local braider was only ten minutes away.

The SL Consultants were knowledgeable and helpful. But I knew what I wanted I didn’t think it would be that hard to explain to a braider.

In the end I went with the braider. I will not go into the story but I can safely say that I learned many lessons.

A Case for Going with a SL Consultant

They know what they are doing.

I learned a lot through my experience and I were to do it again I would probably do the braider thing but I know exactly how to explain what I want what to say. What not to say. And when to take my business somewhere else.

A good SL consultant will be able to look at your hair and tell you what size is best. They know which pattern is best for your hair. Yes, there are more than one pattern making small locks with a tool. They are trained to give you specific instruction on washing and care for your hair type.

You Get What You Pay For

Yes you will find the occasional SL Trainee that is still learning and may do a better job later on. But then they will usually not charge you the full price. But if you are going to someone who does this for a living or at least regularly they know what they are doing.

You know that when you leave their house or salon you will have what you want and the final look will be what you want. If you are completely new to natural hair, are going straight from a relaxer to locks, or are completely unaccustomed to having to work with your hair, getting it done “professionally” is worth the money.

It Really Isn’t That Expensive

Ok, hear me out ;) Depending on your hair’s length, thickness and the lock size it can take any where from 12 to up to 48 hours to get your head done. Installing SLs is a tedious process. It is not as straight forward as braiding or twisting.

I am calculating using a SL Consultant who is charging a max of $600 and a flat retightening fee of $80 per visit and you have to go every six week. After a few months you can learn how to do it yourself if you want. That initial investment is just that and investment you will pay it once and then you are home free.

If you have gotten your hair braided or weaved at a salon more than ten times – no matter how cheap they are – you have paid at least this much. I know it doesn’t hurt as bad over time but it is still money. Think about it this way you may never have to get it done again.

You will be a part of a large supportive community

SL wearers really stick together for the most part. They are very supportive of each other and you will find that you can make friends with some of the nicest people both on and offline who share the common bond of having SLs.

Yes there are some real snobs and haters but they are not confined to those with SLs. As long as you aren’t like that there is not reason not to get the style done professionally because of them.

To sum it up

If you really want SL save the money and get them.

But, if you just want small locks and are not concerned about the name brand and are comfortable working with your hair. If you are willing to take the time to do it yourself or do the search for a braider who will give you what you want, read the rest of the article How to Start and Maintain Very Small Locks.

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