I stumbled upon Sisterlocks on the internet a few years ago. I really liked them, but I wasn’t ready to commit to the style or the cost. I decided to grow out my relaxer in February 2009. I had grown tired of the relaxer cycle and I was frustrated that my hair wasn’t strong enough to grow past a certain length. I decided while I was growing out my relaxer, I would try extensions. I had a few sets of micro braids, and a full sew-in weave. I never really felt like myself with the braided extensions and the weave drove me nuts!! I came across Sisterlocks again while searching hair sites. I figured after spending hundreds on OPH (other people’s hair) I can afford to invest on my own hair. It took me two months from my decision to my installation.
Gigglz: How long were you natural before getting Sisterlocks?
My last relaxer was in February 2009. I transitioned with braids, a weave and a wig before getting Sisterlocks in November 2009. I started my SLs with 4 inches of natural hair. I have 3-4 inches of relaxed hair in the top, and much less on the sides and back. Because I wore braids and a weave during my transition, I don’t really feel like my hair was natural until I got Sisterlocks.
Gigglz: How many consultations did you have before deciding on one, and did price play a part in your decision (honestly)?
I only had one consultation, but I researched blogs and hair forums for weeks for additional info on certified consultants. Timing was more of a factor for me than price. Most consultants in my area were priced generally the same. I didn’t want to pay more for 5 inches of natural hair, so I had to get them done before my hair grew longer. The retightening price did play a part in my decision. Some consultants charge by the hour and others charge a flat fee. I was more comfortable knowing what I have to pay each time.
Gigglz: What made you choose your consultant?
I chose my consultant because she was a certified trainer. I figured if she is training others, she must know what she is doing. I also choose her because she has a shop. I have nothing against home-based salons, my mother and grandmother were licensed cosmetologists and each had a home shop. I never went to a salon growing up, so that’s likely the reason I like the salon environment. One interesting thing happened during my consult… Dr. Cornwell called my consultant to discuss hosting a book signing. That was confirmation for me!
Gigglz: How many hours did it take?
It took approximately 15 hours to install my 450 locks. We did it over two days. I even got my vacation days back once I told my boss what I was doing. He told me they were personal days. I love my job!
Gigglz: What was your initial reaction to them?
I took a few peeks in the mirror while she was working. I have to admit, it looked like a bird’s nest! Mid way through my install, I went home and refused to look at them, because I didn’t want to get discouraged. After she was done, she flat ironed my ends and it was neat. I wore that style for one day, because I just didn’t like the lock-to-straight look. I tried a braid-out and I really liked the look, so that’s been my signature style. It gives the straight ends some texture and blends well with the Sisterlocks.
Gigglz: Do you see any disadvantages to Sisterlocks?
Right now, the disadvantage to me is that I can’t wet them all the time. With the braid out, my permed ends would straighten if my hair got wet. So, I only mist my hair when I know I have time to re-braid my ends.
Gigglz: What products do you use and how often do you use them?
I use very little product at all. I have a 2oz spray bottle that has distilled water and a few drops of oil in it. I like the small bottle because the mist is really fine. I try to part my hair so that I can spray the locks and not the permed ends. I wash my hair weekly and I just finished my bottle of SL Starter Shampoo. I’m now trying the Suave Clarifying shampoo. I think I was diluting the SL Shampoo too much and my hair was not getting as clean as I would have liked. The Suave shampoo is really sudsy, so I may need to dilute it a little more. I also use ACV after I shampoo and rinse really well. The flakes I experienced during my first few weeks have pretty much disappeared, unless it’s shampoo time. I've been very lucky not to have any slippage or bunching.
Gigglz: What hair accessories do you wear?
Occasionally, I wear a headband when I can’t shape my hair properly. I normally just style it with a side part.
Gigglz: What do you wear to protect your hair at night?
I wear a satin pocket bonnet I found at Wal-Mart. It’s like a bag with a tie at the top. It allows your hair to hang loosely while fully encased in satin. It has no elastic, so your edges are protected. It’s cheap too, less than $3.
Gigglz: How do you feel about your SL's today?
For the first time in my life, I am embracing my super kinky hair! It’s unique, it’s thick and healthy! It has truly been a confidence booster! Now I have the opportunity to grow my hair long and strong! Sisterlocks were truly made for me!
Photo 1. Microbraids
Photo 2. Taken after one of my last relaxers
Photo 3. My hair pressed (it reverted the next day!)
Photo 4. install completed
Photo 5. My Sisterlocks at 2 months
**Most importantly for all you reading is that she was installed with her permed ends.
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