iRockLocs

iRockLocs: 1 Year Update

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 15:26:00 +0000

My Loc Obsession - Pt 43

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Sat, 20 Aug 2011 13:55:00 +0000

Source: deluxgallery.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: theafricanconglomerate.blogspot.com via Kim on Pinterest

Samantha: She Rocks Locs!

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Meet Samantha

Q: When and why did you decide to loc your hair?

A: I went natural in high school. That context was a difficult one to be going natural in. I didn’t live with supportive family/people at the time, I had no idea what I was doing, there were few to no women of my complexion and hair texture (dark and unapologetically curly) who were natural. It all happened in stages: Stopped the perm- years later- cut off the straight parts- did any and everything to hide my fro- to rocking a fro proudly. There was a lady at my high school who had stunning, stunning locks. She said a lot of things at the right time and inspired me simply by existing as herself. I didn’t start my lock process till my junior year in college, but I decided when I was going natural that locks would be the end of my natural road (but now I see, really just a whole other beginning), and the woman in high school had a lot to do with that.

Q: Did a professional start your locs and what method did you use to start your locs?

A: A professional and friend, so I started my locks in her kitchen. I started my locks with two strand twists. No wax. No pomades. Just a diluted setting lotion.

Q: What's your loc routine? And what are three products you can't live without for nurturing/styling your locs?

A: My locks are only a little over two months old! They’ve only had one wash, and one retwist, and my loctician now doesn’t let me put any products in my hair. I use a water, essential oil (lavender, mint, tea tree) mix to spritz. I’m interested in playing around with different shampoos, jojoba oil, hot oil treatments, and some different scents. I’m excited to find products and a regimen that is my own, but right now especially, I’m more relaxed letting my loctician steer things...maybe after they mature more.

Q: When and why did you start a blog? And how would you describe your blog?

A: I started a blog a few weeks into my process. I was so anxious about my hair, I figured I should find another place to put my energy: http://dreadlocs.tumblr.com/. My blog does include pictures/videos/notes of my process, but it is more about surrounding myself with inspiration and natural beauty. So lots of pictures, quotes, songs, wisdoms that I want to grow into my locks. One day when they’re long I can look back and see how much I’ve grown, and my locks will be physical evidence.

Q: What would you say to someone who's thinking about locking?

Or someone struggling with their locs?

A: You’ll feel when it’s right, and when you do, don’t get in your way.

Q: How can we keep up with you and your journey?

A: My blog, my blog, my blog, but also I’m happy to connect with anyone interested in natural hair by email, too! Also, I love iRockLocs. Thank you for being you and doing this website. Good luck with your home and hair!

My Loc Obsession - Pt 42

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 13:02:00 +0000

Hey, guys! I apologize for being late. I'm starting at a new school this year and have just been super busy. I'm excited to be teaching a new school, but it requires a lot of changes and I'm just trying to get everything in order before the school year begins. Please forgive me. Anyway, enough about me...here's our weekly locspiration!

Source: haitianhunny.blogspot.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: sexygirlswithdreads.tumblr.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: strawberricurls.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: mspoetrynmotion.tumblr.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: deluxgallery.com via Kim on Pinterest

My Loc Obsession - Pt 41

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 22:56:00 +0000

Source: blkgirlsrock.tumblr.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: ilovemylocs.blogspot.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: blkgirlsrock.tumblr.com via Kim on Pinterest

Miss Curve 2011: She Rocks Locs!

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 13:30:00 +0000

Meet Miss Curve 2011

(aka Chrisandra Wells)

Q: When and why did you decide to loc your hair?

A: I locked my hair in November of 2000. I felt it was time to be more beautiful in my natural essence.

Q: Did a professional start your locs?

A: Yes, Ona of the Locksmyths in Brookln, NY started my locs.

Q: What's your loc routine?

And what are three products you can't live without for nurturing/styling your locs?

A: During the day, I wear my hair loose. I use Jane Carter products on my hair. SInce my locs are long, I wrap them and wear a scarf to bed.

Q: What would you say to someone who's thinking about locking?

Or someone who's struggling with their locs?

A: Don't be afraid to wear locs. They are versatile and can be worn in a variety of styles--from casual to upscale!

Q: How can we keep up with you andyour journey?

A: I recently won the title of Miss Curve 2011 as a part of the Curvy Revolution in Las Vegas, NV. You can also follow me on facebook!

My Loc Obsession - Pt 40

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 14:56:00 +0000

Source: fuckyeahdreadlocks.tumblr.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: blkgirlsrock.tumblr.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: dreadlockssite.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: fuckyeahdreadlocks.tumblr.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: ladiswaggcutiewithdreds.tumblr.com via Kim on Pinterest

My Loc Obsession - Pt 39

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 12:26:00 +0000

Source: blkgirlsrock.tumblr.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: backtonatural.tumblr.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: emptylocket03.blogspot.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: blkgirlsrock.tumblr.com via Kim on Pinterest

iRockLocs: Month 8 Update

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Sat, 16 Jul 2011 04:10:00 +0000

Well, July 7th made eight months into my loc journey! I cannot believe how time is flying. I am so content with the growth and the way my hair is locking. Last month presented some challenges, but all is coming along well. The only thing new this month is that I finally colored my hair and conditioned for the first time.

I chose to go with Clairol Textures & Tones 4RC Cherrywood.

While I love the color of the model on the box, I knew my hair would not come out that color considering that I have very dark hair (about a 1B). The picture on the side of the box let me know that realistically, my hair would only lift about one level or so (to a 2 - 2.5).

I followed the directions on the box. The only thing added was that I sat under the dryer with the color on for about 20 minutes. So, here are my results! The pictures don't do the color justice, but I tried to get some good natural light!

Anyway, I'll work on getting better pictures of the color. So, I love it! It's not too bright, but more of a good base color. Now, I'm ready to highlight! I came across this video by MsKPJ of Expanding Beauty.

I think I'm going to try her technique of using a higher developer with the same Cherrywood color for my highlights. This guarantees that my colors are in the same family, and being the matchy-type person that I am, that's really important to me.

So, that's what's going on with my hair in Month 8!

My Loc Obsession - Pt 38

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 11:06:00 +0000

Source: fuckyeahdreadlocks.tumblr.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: mikemogul.tumblr.com via Kim on Pinterest

My Loc Obsession - Part 37

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 00:06:00 +0000

Hey, friends! I am so excited about this new website I found called Pinterest! It's an excellent website for organizing photos from the web and makes citing pictures super easy. I hope to be using it for our weekly locspiration from now on. Enjoy and have a great weekend!

Source: theblack-nouveau.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: fuckyeahdreadlocks.tumblr.com via Kim on Pinterest

For those of you who missed the July 4th Dreadsock sale, you have another chance tomorrow!

Use the coupon code "AFTERTHE4TH" for 25% off your order on Saturday, July 9, 2011!

Dreadsock Winners & Coupon Code!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Mon, 04 Jul 2011 06:22:00 +0000

I am so excited to be able to give an item away that I love for my locs! Thanks again to Dreadsock for sponsoring this giveaway and blessing two more people with your awesome product!

The winner of the Medium Dreadsock in tan is:

MsAlexis

The winner of the Dreadsock Headband in olive is:

Serenity Earth

If you didn't win, take advantage of Dreadsock's 4th of July sale!

For one day only, Dreadsock is offering 25% off all inventory with the code 4THEFOURTH!

Head on over the Dreadsock and order yours today!

My Loc Obsession - Pt 36

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 14:08:00 +0000

Excited to share my weekly dose of locspiration!

Also, don't forget to enter to win the Dreadsock Giveaway!

Have a great Independence Day Weekend!

Source: retarded-in-love-lalalala.tumblr.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: dreadsandglasses.tumblr.com via Kim on Pinterest

Go HERE for your chance to win a Dreadsock!

Only a few days left to enter!

Dreadsock Giveaway!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 23:59:00 +0000

I never would have imagined iRockLocs to have 300 readers. You guys are awesome!!! To celebrate, we'll be doing an iRockLocs Giveaway!

This giveaway is sponsored by Dreadsock. I had the pleasure of meeting the founder of Dreadsock at the 2011 World Natural Hair Show. I took this opportunity to purchase both a bandana and headband from Dreadsock. I can't say enough about the material. It feels great, is soft, breathable, and durable. The elastic is comfortable and does not leave an imprint. I absolutely love the material and construction and have found these two items great for protecting my hair while I sleep and when I work out.

DREADSOCK was developed out of a necessity for products specific to locked hairstyles. When Julian Burke, the founder and president of Dreadsock Inc., started his dreadlocks he was determined to keep them well manicured and healthy. Although locked hair is an ancient style he found there weren’t any products designed specifically for their care and maintenance. Committed to his lock journey, Julian was determined to develop a product to meet the specific needs of locked hair. The DREADSOCK is that product, providing both comfort and protection.

There will be two winners!

Giveaway #1: Medium Dreadsock (in Sand)

Giveaway #2: Dreadsock Headband (in Olive)

Two winners means two ways to enter!

Here's how:

Note: each entry must be made as a new comment

For ONE entry, become a follower of the blog (see sidebar). Leave a comment with your name, your email address or @twitter name, and the product you would want most from Dreadsock!

You must be a follower of the blog for all other entries to be valid!

For a SECOND entry, become a member of the Dreadsock Group on Facebook.

Come back and leave a comment with your name and the word "Facebook."

So, head over to the website and find out which Dreadsock product is right for you!

If you'd like another perspective on the product, check out these reviews:

Marktastic0

Quotidianlight

jsix4ever

Contest Details:

There will be 2 winners

*CONTEST ENDS ON Sunday, July 3rd at 11:59 pm CST*

The winners will be announced on Monday, July 4th, 2011!
The Rules:
Open to U.S. & International Residents
Winner must be 18 years & older OR have the permission of their legal guardian if under 18
Winner must be a subscriber through Google Friend Connect to iRockLocs.com [click on FOLLOW in the right sidebar]. If you're already one of my rockin' readers, you are good to go!

To Enter:

Leave a comment to this post stating the following:

Name
Email OR @twitter username (to contact you if you're the winner)
The one item you'd love to have from Dreadsock
Dont' forget, you have to FOLLOW the blog to win [click on FOLLOW in the right sidebar]

Note: Entries that do not adhere to these rules and guidelines will not be considered. Winner will be selected at random, using a random number generator.

Disclaimer: No purchase necessary. In accepting the prize, the winner acknowledges that iRockLocs.com may not be held liable for any loss, damages or injury associated with accepting or using this prize(s). This contest is subject to all federal, provincial and municipal laws. One entry per person. Winner must contact iRockLocs.com with winner’s mailing address at iRockLocs@live.com within 5 days of being notified of winning. Failure to respond shall mean that the winner forfeits the prize and another winner will be selected at random.

Happy Loc Appreciation Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Sat, 25 Jun 2011 06:42:00 +0000

Wow! What an awesome idea that has developed into a day that the online loc community can really represent! Big shout out to Qochemist for really taking the lead on the idea and to Dunte86 for taking on the task of compiling 15, yes 15 collab videos. They are spread out over various YouTubers' channels. I'll add them as I see them uploaded!

#1

#2

#3

#4

#5

#6

#8

#9

#11

#12

#13

#14

#15

#?

#?

So, how will you be spending your Loc Appreciation Day?

How will you celebrate your locs?

My Loc Obsession - Pt 35

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 21:00:00 +0000

Adura Salon

iRockLocs: Month 7 Update

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 17:37:00 +0000

Oh, wow! I'm over half way to a year. I must say that when I first started this journey, I didn't know how long I would last, but now I can see this going for the long haul! I have pics from month 7, but I think the length is most apparent in a recent video I did for Loc Appreciation Day, which is June 25, 2011!

I'm super excited about the progress, but month 7 has brought some challenges as well.

Challenge #1: Small Locs
I've found quite a few locs that are much smaller than I want. Luckily, this is an easy fix, and I can just join them with another loc that's nearby. The only challenge has been when there is not one that is very close and my parts end up not being uniform anymore.

Here's a shot of my first two-headed dragon!

I also have this one in the front, but they're beginning to mesh together.

Challenge #2: Thinning Locs (with no loc close enough to join)
I've got this one loc near my right temple that is really thin and joining it with another would look odd. I feel like there would be a big space with a missing loc at my hairline. The solution my loctician chose was to interlock these locs.

One loc was interlocked and some hair was added to the loc to save it from disappearing. I'm not sure how I feel about this one. I'm wondering how the transition will be between where the hair is added and if my natural hair will produce a loc of the same thickness.

Challenge #3: Locs Thinning in the Middle
There is one loc that seems to only be thinning in the middle. My loctician says it looks like the location of the thinning is right where my headbands fall. This loc was also interlocked to keep the base strong.

So, some challenges have come, but there is good news also. I have stayed away from headbands for the past three weeks. I usually where headbands because I don't like how my locs look without one, but the length and thickness are really getting to a point where no headband is "needed," but I can still throw one on for the look!

I'm experimenting with styles a little more. I haven't come up with anything I'm in love with yet, but I'm going to keep trying.

I think I stated in the last month or two that I really want to color my hair. That urge is even stronger now that it's summer. I'm not sure why I'm trying to resist. We shall see!

My Loc Obsession - Pt 34

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 15:23:00 +0000

My Loc Obsession - Pt 33

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 15:41:00 +0000

Let me know if you'd like credit or want a photo removed by email me at iRockLocs@live.com

Osha: She Rocks Locs!

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 18:58:00 +0000

Meet Osha

Q: When and why did you decide to loc your hair?

A: After playing with the idea for several years, I decided to loc my hair in January of 2006. This was my first attempt and it only lasted for a week. This attempt was rather spontaneous and I was very disappointed with the outcome. If I'm not mistaking, I had about 12 locs once the loctician was done. Whatever technique was used, my hair started to loc within a matter of days & it totally freaked me out so I combed them out. I tried again in September & was totally comfortable with the decision and the look. I decided to loc my hair because I have always admired women rocking their hair in it's natural state. I had always been a press & curl kinda girl. One day I blow dried my hair & spent time actually looking at my hair and realized my texture was beautiful & that I too could rock locs.

Q: Did a professional start your locs and what method did you use to start your locs?

A: Yes, my cousin who is a loctician started my locs with two strand twists.

Q: What's your loc routine/regimen?

And what are three products you can't live without for nurturing/styling your locs?

A: I wash my hair every 2-3 weeks. Three products I cannot live without would be Parachute 100% coconut oil, Cantu shea butter oil sheen spray, and Barry Fletcher loc set serum!Although the coconut oil doesn't smell the greatest, it does wonders for nourishing my dry hair. The oil sheen is a great finishing product and it smells divine! The loc serum keeps my hair twisted up nicely and it smells yummy as well.

Q: What would you say to someone who's thinking about locking?

Or someone struggling with their locs?

A: DO YOUR RESEARCH! And having a little patience won't hurt. There will be days where you feel like you don't want to continue with the process. On those days, think back to why you started them in the first place. If it's more than just a fashion statement, you will get through those moments & be a veteran in no time. It really is worth the time and effort.

Q: How can we keep up with you and your journey?

A: You can follow me on Twitter, @abstroos, or Tumblr

Osha, thanks so much for sharing your journey with us!

My Loc Obsession - Pt 32

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 12:23:00 +0000

Today is the end of another school year for many, including me!

Looking forward to a relaxing summer and a break from teaching!

Locspiration time!

Let me know if you'd like credit for a pic or want it removed by emailing me at iRockLocs@live.com

My Loc Obsession - Pt 31

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Sat, 28 May 2011 15:42:00 +0000

Hey, guys! Sorry the weekend locspirations is late again. I had some PC issues yesterday.

Better late than never, right?!

Let me know if a pic is yours and you'd like credit or like it removed by emailing me at iRockLocs@live.com

Naturaleza: She Rocks Locs!

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Wed, 25 May 2011 22:48:00 +0000

Meet Natasha aka Naturaleza

When and why did you stop with the chemicals/relaxers?

My last relaxer was in February 2010. I got tired of having the long hair with the middle being damaged and extremely dry. I wanted a change and needed to make the step to a new me in a couple areas of my life. So, with the new physical me, I knew that taking the step to loc my hair would be like a natural progression. New expectations, I guess.

Is this the first time that you have decided to grow your natural hair?

No, this is the second time. I’m better prepared this time around. I am more confident and know that who I am is not based solely on the physical appearance that people see. The first occasion, time was an issue. And I did not have the knowledge back then that I have now. But, as time went on, I’ve met more people who have opened my eyes and ears on how to handle natural hair. Plus, I’ve seen different locticians and stylists do their work. I believe I’ve matured more, too.

What styles did you do in the transition phase?

I wore afro-kinky braids and did human hair micros. The final stage was wool braids.

When did you start your locs? And, were they done professionally?

My loctician’s name is Nola and I finally started them on November 2, 2010. She used the two-strand method. I have been enjoying it!

What is your hair routine/regimen?

Generally, I go to get my hair washed and re-locked every 3-4 weeks. In the interim I clean my scalp with Witch Hazel. I have done 2 retwists on my own, the better one using Organic Root Stimulator’s Lock and Twist Gel. But, I’ve been shopping around for a shampoo to use and right now I’m leaning toward Avalon Organics Tea Tree Mint Treatment as well their nourishing Lavender shampoo. I make sure I tie my hair with a soft scarf each time I am in bed. And my pillowcases are changed often as I’ve had acne flare-up since putting different products in my hair. I also spritz using Jamaican Mango and Lime’s Sproil for sheen; it smells great too. I’d recommend drinking lots of water and having a healthy diet where possible; as a familiar saying here in Barbados goes: “You are what you eat!”

Products I want to try :o)

Doo Gro Anti-itch oil (recommended help with the itching), Avalon Organics’ Tea Tree Mint Shampoo, Carol’s Daughter Tui Hair Oil.

What would you say to someone who wants to transition to locs or natural hair?

Sometimes parting with our relaxed look is hard especially if that is all you know. But…hair grows back! You will still get to style it, run your hands thru it and be just as creative with your own hair. Don’t put limits on yourself. When we go to buy a car we get the brochure of the vehicle we like and we test drive it. In purchasing/building a home we need info on mortgages, we look for house plans, color swatches, etc. So why not do the same with your crown? Use the Internet as a positive tool and read up on the best way to start and maintain your natural hair. Arrange consultation meet ups with trusted locticians and/or natural hair specialists in your area. You have to ask questions as it pertains to your hair type. I’m not an advocate or a guru on issues such as size, twist outs, the “right” amount of locs to have or even the topic of freeform vs. interlocking vs. palm rolling. You may not even realize any new happenings for a while. The frizzies may be daunting. So, rock your headbands, scarves, clips and flat twists! Make the journey as interesting and as lovely as you possibly can. Take the plunge and enjoy it! Do you!

Why did you decide to do your blog?

NATURALEZA was started out of my desire to document my journey as my locs grew. It did not have to be only about hair; but, even other lifestyle happenings that piqued my interest or that of my readers/subscribers. And it is only after starting it that I came upon more blogs and sites dedicated to beauty, life and hair. I wanted my blog to reflect my Barbadian self and give it a ‘Bajan’ character; as opposed to everything being so generic. In addition, being a creative person is who I am naturally so it is a way for me to express myself. I get to educate myself and hopefully others, too. And, after winning my loc prize…what can I say…Yeah!

You can visit my Blog at: http://journeytonappy.blogspot.com/

To Naturaleza: Thanks so much for sharing your journey with us!

To My Readers: Be sure to check out Naturaleza's blog and show some love!

iRockLocs: Month 6 Update

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Mon, 23 May 2011 12:20:00 +0000

Hey, fam! Seems like just yesterday I was getting my locs started...I can't believe an entire six months has passed! It's been a fun journey thus far and is getting easier day by day! Enjoy the pics and video!

Day 1

Month 1

Month 2

Month 3

Month 4

Month 5

Month 6

My Loc Obsession - Pt 30

noreply@blogger.com (Kim) — Fri, 20 May 2011 12:04:00 +0000

Long week = Much locspriation needed!

If a pic is yours and you'd like credit or like it removed, please email me at iRockLocs@live.com