If you use other shampoo or do not use the tip sheet, you can damage your locks or roots and disturb the Sisterlock process.
Your trained Sisterlocks Consultant will instruct you according to your individual needs. In general you should bundle your hair in sections before you wash it. Section your Sisterlocks into as many portions as needed to comfortably bundle them. For longer locks, you should have 8 to 10 section which should be braided loosely leaving room at the scalp. Fold the ends up towards the head and rubber band them into place. Shorter hair will require more bundles. To bundling your short locks you should slip a rubber band around a small section. Wrap the rubber band close to the base of the locks until it is secure. If your locks are long enough, fold the your ends down toward your head and secure them with the last wrap of the rubberband. Make sure you leave room at the scalp if possible. This is the proper technique to use when washing your hair. Bundling your hair helps your locks stay tightly coiled.
If you change the direction of your application, your Sisterlocks and get loose and fuzzy. The Sisterlock shampoo is specially formulated to clean your hair and scalp while keeping the shape of your locks. The starter kit shampoo typically lasts 2-3 shampoos, depending on your hair length. When you run out of the starter kit, purchase more Sisterlock shampoo from your consultant or the Sisterlock website.
The amount of time your hair needs to dry depends on your hair length and hair type. Do not use heating tools to help dry your hair. This will harm the integrity of your locks.
If your hair is too wet and you take out the braids, this can loosen your locks. Separating the locks individually helps them lay flat and straight rather than kinked.
For the first few weeks or months, expect your scalp to be rather itchy as it adjusts to the locks. Your scalp may have excess build-up since you are only washing it a few times a month. You do not have to wash out the witch hazel. You can also try a spritz of distilled or filtered water if your consultant advises against witch hazel.
To wrap your hair in a scarf, place the scarf across the top of your head. Gather the ends of the scarf at the back of your head, and secure the scarf with 2 knots to keep it in place. Then, twist the ends several times so it does not come undone. Pull the end of the scarf across your forehead, and tuck it underneath the scarf near your eyebrow. You can also use a silk or satin pillowcase to avoid breakage and tangles.
After you’ve had your braids for 6 months, you can use low heat on your Sisterlocks. Set your curling or straightening iron on the lowest setting.
Avoid using oils, waxes, and gels, as they will weigh down your hair.
During the retightening session, your consultant locks your new growth as well as re-tightens the rest of your locks. If your ends are loosening, they can tighten them at this time. As another option, you can learn to tighten your Sisterlocks yourself by taking a course to learn the technique. Ask your consultant about courses in your area or search online.
