How to Install Sisterlocks

Try a new hairstyle by having Sisterlocks put into your hair.

Sisterlocks is a fairly new hairstyle popular with African American women. Sisterlocks are different from traditional dreadlocks because the individual pieces are much smaller than conventional dreadlocks. This hairstyle is made using a woman's existing hair, by licensed hair stylists certified in the Sisterlock system.

Things You'll Need

• 1 1/2 inches of new hair growth
• Shampoo

Instructions

1. Consult a hairstylist that is certified in the Sisterlock system. You can find a certified Sisterlock hairstylist on the official Sisterlock website. The Sisterlock website provides a directory of certified stylists in every state. During the consultation, the hairstylist will put a few Sisterlocks into your hair so that you can get a sense of what your hair will look like after the actual locking session.

2. Shampoo your hair before the locking process. Your hair must be completely clean before the locking process is started. You can use any brand of shampoo you desire. The hairstylist can only put Sisterlocks into clean hair. Before you get Sisterlocks done, you must have at least 1-1/2 inches of new hair growth. The Sisterlocks will be started on the new growth, which holds the locks in place.

3. Create the Sisterlocks during the locking session with the certified hairstylist. Depending on the length and the thickness of your hair, the locking session can take up to 18 hours to complete. During the locking session, you hair will be sectioned and Sisterlocks will be put into the hair, section by section. The stylist will provide an official starter kit during the locking session. The starter kit includes washing bands, tip sheets and shampoo. After the session, a follow-up visit will be scheduled.

4. Shampoo your new Sisterlocks twice prior to going back to the hairstylist for the follow-up visit. Shampooing the Sisterlocks will cause them to relax and fall naturally.

5. Tighten the Sisterlocks during the follow-up visit. The follow-up visit is used to tighten any locks that have loosened after your initial visit. The hairstylist will also teach you how to maintain your Sisterlocks at home.

Tips & Warnings

• It is important to go to a hairstylist that is certified in the Sisterlock system. You can risk damaging your hair if you go to an inexperienced hairstylist.

References

• Sisterlocks: Frequently Asked Questions