Are There Any Disadvantages Of Sisterlocks?

Are you on the fence on getting sisterlocks?

Sisterlocks, a unique method of locing natural hair, have gained immense popularity among those seeking a low-maintenance, stylish, and liberating hair journey. While the allure of effortless beauty and a connection to their natural hair is undeniable, it's crucial to approach this commitment with realistic expectations.

Is it all that it’s chalked up to be? What’s with the hype? What are the potential disadvantages of sisterlocks?

These practical tips and insights to help you navigate this beautiful and rewarding, yet demanding hair journey.

Why We Love Our Sisterlocks

As a woman of color who also has sisterlocks, I enjoy - and will continue to enjoy - the many benefits for years.

To state the obvious, they look amazing. The simple, yet beautiful aesthetic appeal goes right up my and many other ladies’ alleys.

And as a doctor who understands hair, I can attest that sisterlocks promote hair health by minimizing manipulation and reducing breakage. It’s a celebration of natural hair in its purest form, encouraging self-acceptance and a connection to one's heritage. It’s also versatile, meaning we can style them or just wear them out if we’re in a hurry.

As they mature, they become easier to manage, improving freedom and convenience in daily life, making them an ideal choice for busy individuals.

What Are The Disadvantages?

You came here to learn the disadvantages. Perhaps you’re trying to get a balanced story before you decide to get your own hair locked. Here are some of the possible disadvantages of having sisterlocks.

1. High Initial Costs

The installation of sisterlocks can be quite expensive, often exceeding $800. Sisterlocks need a skilled loctician who can install these locks correctly. The cost of hair styling is also increasing, and this may increase every year. You also need retightening sessions every 6 weeks for the first year, which can be around $80-$100 each.

2. It’s A Time-Consuming Installation

The installation process is lengthy, typically taking between 18 to 24 hours, which can be split over multiple days. You’ll need to keep your schedule open. Your sisterlocks also require retightening every 4 to 6 weeks. So you’ll need a significant time commitment and can add to overall costs. If you skip out on too many retightening sessions, you won’t see the results you’re looking for.

3. You Can Damage Your Hair

Sisterlocks require a specific technique that can damage your hair if you do not perform it correctly. It’s not that it’s difficult to DIY. Rather, it takes trial and error and you don’t want to risk it on your first installation. You’ll also need consistent, expert maintenance. If not maintained properly, you’re more likely to experience thinning or breakage, especially if there are delays between retightening sessions. If your locks are installed too tightly, it can lead to issues along the hairline such as traction alopecia.

4. Commitment to a Specific Hairstyle

Sisterlocks can look amazing and there are some versatile ways you can style them. But they are a long-term commitment, meaning once installed, you may feel limited in changing your hairstyle for an extended period. You’ll have to adjust your lifestyle to install your locs, perform weekly maintenance, and keep your hair up to date.

5. It Can Be Difficult To Find Qualified Consultants

Sisterlocks is a special skill, so you’ll need to find someone experienced in installing sisterlocks for the best results. But where do you find a skilled loctician? It can be challenging to find skilled consultants to install them and provide adequate support, and education during the maintenance process. This inconsistency can lead to issues with hair health and styling.

6. You Have Product Limitations

Sisterlocks has specific products that can make your hair moisturized and maintain its overall health. At the same time, you can’t use certain products as they can cause excess buildup and make your hair more brittle. During the initial settling phase, some products affect hair health. You’ll need a bit of trial and error, which can take some time.

7. The Potential For Hair Loss

Some individuals report experiencing hair loss due to factors like heavy-handed retightening or hormonal changes23. These disadvantages highlight the importance of thorough consideration and planning before committing to Sisterlocks, ensuring that individuals are prepared for the financial and time commitments involved.

Overcoming Your Disadvantages

Whatever you decide to do with your hair will have pros and cons:

• Braids? Pros and cons
• Thinking of a perm? Pros and cons
• Locs? Also pros and cons

So that means you can find workarounds for any potential disadvantages of sisterlocks.

While retightening every 4-6 weeks may seem daunting, it can become a part of your self-care routine. Consider scheduling appointments in advance and utilizing downtime, such as watching TV or listening to podcasts, during your retightening sessions.

Manage Your Costs

If you’re worried about the costs, you can find some ways to offset the pricey sisterlock care. Explore budget-friendly options like group retightening sessions. You can learn how to retighten your locks with DIY videos online. Buy a sisterlock tool and practice on a single loc. Consider bartering services with other sisterlock wearers or offering to assist your consultant in exchange for reduced rates.

Experiment With Your Hair

Of course, there are limitations but you can still experiment with different styles like updos, twists, and wraps. Embrace protective styles like scarves and headwraps to shield your locks during intense workouts or swimming. Communicate openly with your consultant about any discomfort you experience during installation or re-tightening. Consider adjusting your retightening schedule or trying different techniques to alleviate any pain or irritation.

Limit The Damage

Your hair health is a priority but you can limit the damage of your hair. It’s all about taking your time with your hair. Invest in regular consultations with a qualified sisterlocks consultant to monitor your locks' health and address any concerns promptly. Prioritize gentle handling and avoid excessive manipulation to minimize breakage.

 

Weigh The Pros and Cons

It's natural to be concerned about the disadvantages of getting sisterlocks. It can be time-consuming to install, costly, and difficult to find skilled locticians. You will also need to find the best products for your sisterlocks.

You'll probably have to learn how to manage your hair. But it can be worth it. Wearing your sisterlocks is more than a new hairstyle. It's a journey that builds your confidence, improves the health of your hair, and allows you to feel liberated. 

The benefits can outweigh the disadvantages of sisterlocks. Take your time during your first year, wait for your locs to mature, and have fun with them.