The decision to wear locs carries both great benefits and some serious drawbacks. For some, making the decision was easy. They found that the benefits far outweighed the drawbacks and they booked their appointment for their starter locs. However, for others, they are still on the fence as to whether locs are not just good for them and their hair but is it best for their lifestyle and who they are as a person. There is no denying that locs serve as a powerful expression of identity and heritage. People of many races and genders have felt a great sense of connection and community by wearing locs. However, despite their cultural significance and practicality, locs can sometimes be subject to prejudice and discrimination. Negative stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding locs persist in some circles, potentially impacting social interactions and professional opportunities for those who choose to wear them. So, let's really breakdown the pros and cons of locs.

Here are some pros of locs:

Pros of Locs: Low Maintenance

Once locs are matured, they require minimal upkeep compared to other hairstyles such as relaxer, braids, natural hair and even wigs. Your morning routine will become significantly shorter as there is no need to wash or wet or curl or gel or twist or braid or comb. This style saves time and money because you won't spend so much on regular grooming appointments and styling products.

Pros of Locs: Versatility

Loc strands mimic the stands of your hair just thicker so they can be styled in various ways. Locs can be worn with a middle part or a side part; in a ponytail or pigtails; add to that updos and buns; and even braids and twists. This offers so much versatility in appearance.

Pros of Locs: Cultural Significance

Although the origin of locs is not confirmed, for many individuals, locs hold cultural and spiritual significance, representing identity, heritage, and personal expression.

Pros of Locs: Protection

Due to the intertwined nature of locs, they provide great protection for the hair. They minimize exposure to environmental elements and manipulation that causes breakage especially for those with delicate or fragile strands, which leads to the next pro of wearing locs.

Pros of Locs: Hair Growth

Many individuals report that wearing locs has caused their hair to grow so much . This is most likely due to the lack of combing and brushing which reduces breakage and preserves hair length.

Here are some of the cons of Locs.

Cons of Locs: Initial Time Investment

Starting locs may require a significant time investment. Depending on the method chosen such as twisting, interlocking, or freeforming and the size and length of each loc your new loc journey can take several full days to start. It can also be costly if done professionally.

Cons of Locs: Patience

Locs take time to mature. And depending on the length you start with and the texture of your hair, it may go through a period of unruliness or "ugly stage" before settling into their desired shape and texture. During this time, there is nothing you can do to rush the process. You just have to patiently go through the process.

Cons of Locs: Public Perception and Stereotyping:

Unfortunately, some societal biases and stereotypes still exist around locs. These biases can lead to potential discrimination or misunderstandings in public and professional spaces. This may also cause one to always feel pressured to unnecessarily and overly groom their locs.

Cons of Locs: Buildup

Locs are still your hair and still require regular maintenance and upkeep. Locs shouldn't make you lazy with your haircare. Without proper care and maintenance, locs can accumulate product buildup, lint, or debris, which may require thorough professional cleansing or even cutting in extreme cases.

The Choice is Yours.

Ultimately, whether the pros outweigh the cons or vice versa, depends on your individual preference, lifestyle, and cultural considerations. With proper care and understanding, many people find wearing locs to be a rewarding and empowering experience. Tell us what you think? Do the pros of wearing locs outweigh the cons for you or do the cons outweigh the pros?

Whether you wear your hair in locs, relaxed or all natural, African Naturalistas has the product to strengthen your hair and foster growth. Check out our website to find the product that is right for you.