Lessons I learned from Locking Hair

43) The term "Locks" can be a very scary concept to embrace for prospect Lock wearers. Everybody has encountered an individual who wears locks at some point in their lives. Not so long ago, many people weren't wearing locks. Because of this, your first experience with seeing locks often forms your first impression of locks. (What was your first impression?) My first memory is of a homeless man with one huge and very dirty lock. Yuck!! As I got older, I began to embrace my heritage more. However, it took me 10 years to decide to lock my hair. After I got over my own "izms" (an Erykah Badu term for negative thought patterns), I now appreciate the beauty in one huge lock in the same manner as I enjoy professionally cultivated and manicured locks. To new prospect lock wearers, I MUST emphasize that everyone is an individual. Locks are cultivated and maintained at the discretion of the lock wearer. If you are a neat person, your locks will be neat. If you desire professional locks, you will have professional locks. If you are of an organic mindset, you may lean toward free forming locks. To this end, I implore; don't let your old images of lock wears - people you don't even know - stop you from realizing the true beauty that has been given to you. Also check out this book, DREADS by Francesco Mastalia and Alfonse Pagano introduced by Alice Walker. The book offers great photos along with short excepts from lock wearing individuals from all over the world. I love this book because I've formed a greater appreciation for the mindset of lock wearers.

Lessons I learned from Locking Hair

41) Henna creates lovely color hues ranging from brown, red and burgundy.

Using henna can be tricky. However once you know the principles behind its application and select the color henna product, the possibilities are endless.

Lessons I learned from Locking Hair

40.) Be yourself because everybody else is taken!

Your locks will allow YOUR true essence shine. Have you ever noticed how different locks can be on various individuals. When deciding whether or not to lock, please ask yourself - are you willing to see you? Do you have the guts say....love me or leave me baby!

Lessons I've learned from Locking Hair

40) When starting locks, you must be comfortable in your own skin.

When starting locks, lock wearers must have thick skin. Why? Locks tend to bring out lots of stereotypes and negative images that folks carry around within themselves. IE: Don't be surprised if your sweet Grandmother says, "Baby. why would you want that nappy stuff? Or, you look like a pick-a-ninny."

During my journey, I realize that I loving "me" in the way that God put me on this Earth is one of the best strengths to acquire in this lifetime. Peace.

Lessons I learned from locking hair.

39) I've meant many clients who LOVE to purchase hair care products; even products they don't need.

As a consumer, you should be open to finding the best products that work for your hair. However, please make sure that the products you purchase are applicable to your natural hair care regimen.

In one case, my client showed me her recent "Oil sheen spray" purchase. My response, you don't need this sheen spray. If you want to achieve a natural sheen, it is best achieved with shampoos, moisturizers, oils and conditioners. My next recommendation was for her "to gift" her recent hair purchase. This way, her hard earned dollars are not wasted.