Jovânia
Microlocs Establishment Date: January 12, 2022
Number of Locs: ~350
Location: Luanda, Angola
Instagram: @she_is_locd1
Hair Texture: Medium
Curl Pattern: 4b, 4c
Hair Density: High density
Installation Method: DIY Microlocs
Locking Method: I started my microlocs with two-strand twists. I liked that method because it gave me a defined pattern in the early stages and allowed for an easier installation and maintenance process. Over time, they’ve matured beautifully!
Installation vs. Oct 2025
Describe your hair before getting microlocs.
Before getting microlocs, my hair was 100% natural. It was medium-length, thick, and dense, but managing it took a lot of time and patience. I loved my natural curls, but detangling and maintaining moisture were constant challenges.
What hairstyles did you used to wear the most before getting microlocs?
I used to wear a lot of twist-outs, braid-outs or just rock my afro. When I wanted something quick, I’d go for a bun or protective styles like box braids or twists. I loved the versatility, but I got tired of the long wash days and constant manipulation.
“I do all my own reties, it took practice and patience, but now it’s part of my self-care routine. Nothing like knowing you’re maintaining your own crown.”
What made you decide to install microlocs?
I chose microlocs because I wanted to fall back in love with my hair. I was looking for a long-term, healthy option that embraces my natural texture. They feel like the perfect balance between loose natural hair and traditional locs.
What’s your go-to-hairstyle?
Honestly, I love a good half-up, half-down style, simple but elegant. When I want something different, I go for a braid-out or a low bun. I don't style my hair too often to avoid slippage or breakage. Microlocs make it super easy to switch up my look without too much effort.
How do you maintain your locs and what products do you use regularly?
- I get my reties every 6 to 8 weeks, depending on how much new growth I have.
- I wash my hair every 3 weeks using a sulfate-free clarifying shampoo, making sure to separate my locs afterward to prevent matting at the roots.
- For moisture, I lightly spritz my hair with a mix of rose water and a few drops of jojoba or vitamin E oil about 2 times a week. I try to keep my scalp clean and avoid buildup by not using heavy creams or oils.
- At night, I always sleep with a satin scarf or bonnet to reduce friction and keep my locs neat.
What do you love most about your locs and why?
What I love most is the freedom. My microlocs have simplified my routine so much, no more worrying about styling every day or dealing with constant detangling. I also love how they represent patience and growth; they’ve become part of my identity and confidence.
What has been the biggest challenge or adjustment?
The biggest challenge was learning to trust the process. In the early stages, my locs looked frizzy and uneven, and I used to overthink it. But once I accepted that every stage has its own beauty, I started enjoying the journey a lot more.
What’s something you wish you knew before getting loc’d?
I wish I knew how much patience is required and that locs don’t mature overnight. It’s a slow transformation, but it’s worth every bit of it. I also didn’t realize how freeing it would feel to stop chasing “perfect hair days.”
What advice would you give someone considering installing Sisterlocks or microlocs?
Do your research and choose a loctician you trust, that makes all the difference. Understand the maintenance commitment before starting, and be prepared for the early stages to look different from what you see online.
Most importantly, embrace the journey. Your locs will evolve, and so will you. Don’t compare your progress to anyone else’s, every set of locs is unique.
Shout out your loctician! Who does your reties today?
DIY crew here! I do all my own reties, it took practice and patience, but now it’s part of my self-care routine. Nothing like knowing you’re maintaining your own crown.
