Braids & Locs — Educational Series
Braids, twists, and locs are cousins, not twins. All three honor heritage and protect your hair — but they’re built differently, maintained differently, and tell different stories in culture.
Key idea: Choose the style that fits your lifestyle, hair goals, and identity. There’s no “better,” only what’s right for you.
1. Quick Definitions
Braids
Hair is parted and interwoven using a 3-strand technique. Braids can sit on the scalp (cornrows) or hang freely (box braids, knotless braids). Extensions may be added for length and fullness.
Twists
Hair is wrapped using a 2-strand technique. Twists tend to be softer, lighter, and more flexible than traditional braids. Examples include two-strand twists, Marley twists, Senegalese twists, and passion twists.
Locs / Locks
Hair is sectioned and then encouraged to mat and bind into rope-like strands over time. Locs mature in stages and are a long-term protective style, unlike braids or twists which are installed and removed.
2. How Each Style Is Made
Braids — Interlacing From Day One
- Hair is parted into clean, even sections (boxes, triangles, curved parts).
- Three strands are interwoven; extensions optional.
- Ends are set with hot water (if synthetic hair is used) or styled with mousse.
Common types: box braids, knotless braids, cornrows, feed-ins, braided bobs.
Twists — Two Strands Wrapped Together
- Hair is divided into two strands per section.
- Strands are wrapped around each other from roots to ends.
- Can be done on natural hair or with textured extensions (e.g., Marley hair).
Common types: two-strand twists, Senegalese twists, Marley twists, passion twists.
Locs — From Starter to Mature
- Starter methods: comb coils, two-strand twist starts, braid starts, backcombing, interlocking, freeform.
- Early stage: Frizz and budding as strands begin binding.
- Maturing: Locs compact, smooth, and strengthen over months to years.
Locs evolve naturally. They’re a journey, not a one-day install.
3. Maintenance, Longevity & Lifestyle
Braids
- Wear time: 4–8 weeks.
- Upkeep: Clean scalp, lightly moisturize, refresh edges.
- Removal: Slow, gentle takedown with slip to avoid tangles.
Twists
- Wear time: 2–6 weeks depending on type and texture.
- Upkeep: Similar to braids but easier to refresh individual twists.
- Removal: Usually quicker and gentler than braids.
Locs
- Commitment: Ongoing; retwist/interlock every 3–8 weeks (optional).
- Upkeep: Keep scalp hydrated, avoid heavy product buildup.
- Growth: Locs thicken and lengthen over time — patience rewarded.
4. Culture, Meaning & Respect
Braids, twists, and locs originate from African and diasporic traditions. Historically, they represented identity, tribe, age, or social status. Today, they continue to express culture, creativity, and pride.
5. Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Aspect | Braids | Twists | Locs |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it’s formed | 3-strand interlacing | 2-strand wrapping | Matted + bound over time |
| Timeline | 4–8 weeks | 2–6 weeks | Months–years to fully mature |
| Flexibility | Highly customizable; easy color/length changes | Soft, lightweight, versatile | Many styles possible once mature |
| Maintenance | Low daily upkeep | Low daily upkeep; easier to refresh | Regular retwists/interlocking; buildup-aware cleansing |
| Buildup risk | Moderate | Low–moderate | Higher — avoid heavy waxes/gels |
| Protective benefits | Ends tucked; length retention | Flexible tension; natural movement | Long-term low manipulation |
6. Myths vs. Facts
Myth: “Locs are dirty."
Fact: Locs need regular cleansing just like any style.
Myth: “Braids stop hair growth.”
Fact: Hair always grows — breakage prevention is key.
Myth: “Twists don’t last long.”
Fact: With proper technique (e.g., Senegalese), they can last 4–6 weeks.
Myth: “You must shave to remove locs.”
Fact: Many people successfully comb out mature locs.
7. Which One Should I Choose?
Choose braids if you want…
- Maximum style variety.
- Color/length changes without dye.
- Low commitment between installs.
Choose twists if you want…
- A soft, flexible protective style.
- Quick takedown and easy refreshing.
- A natural look with more movement.
Choose locs if you want…
- A long-term style that evolves.
- Low daily manipulation once mature.
- A look rooted in identity and tradition.
8. Care Routines & Product Tips
For Braids (4–8 weeks)
- Prep: Clarify, deep-condition, detangle.
- During wear: Mist scalp with water + light oil; sleep with bonnet/scarf.
- Refresh: Use a flexible, conditioning gel that won’t flake.
- Removal: Apply slip; unravel gently; cleanse and deep-condition.
For Twists
- Prep: Hydrate hair to reduce frizz.
- During wear: Light moisturization; refresh twists as needed.
- Removal: Quick and gentle — avoid unraveling dry hair.
For Locs (starter → mature)
- Starter phase: Clean gently; avoid heavy waxes.
- Mature phase: Maintain retwist/interlock schedule; focus on scalp health.
- Styling: Use a scarf or dryer to set styles.
9) Quick FAQ
Q: Are twists considered braids?
A: No. Braids use 3 strands; twists use 2 and behave differently.
Q: Can you start locs from twists?
A: Yes — twist-start locs are very popular and lock beautifully over time.
Q: Do I need extensions?
A: Optional for braids or twists; locs typically start with natural hair.
Q: How do I avoid buildup?
A: Use lightweight gels, avoid waxes, and clarify regularly.
10) Final Takeaway
- Braids = 3-strand interlacing | Twists = 2-strand wrapping | Locs = binding over time.
- All are protective; each suits different needs and lifestyles.
- Healthy scalp + gentle installs = strong, thriving natural hair.
Explore LocStar Conditioning Braiding Gel → | Explore LocStar Lock & Twist Gel →
✨ Next in the series → “Protective & Powerful: How to Care for Braids and Locs the Right Way”
