Microlocs & Sisterlocks: What’s the difference?
If you’re here, you’ve probably heard of microlocs and sisterlocks. Both methods are great to achieve beautiful locs that will give you so much versatility. However, it can be hard to understand what these types of locs mean and know which one is the best for you. In this blog post, I’ll break down the differences between microlocs and sisterlocks.
What are Sisterlocks?
Sisterlocks are a type of loc but it is also a patented technique/process that was developed in 1993 by Dr. JoAnne Cornwell-James. It involves sectioning off sections of hair with a specific parting system and using a specific tool to create the uniform locs and maintenance. The locs are much smaller than ‘small traditional locs’ and usually comes in a standard size. The locs are interlocked from root to tip. Sisterlocks consultants go through specific training to be certified in sisterlocks. However, if you have established sisterlocks and find yourself in an area that doesn’t have a Sisterlocks consultant, you can go to a loctician who understands the size of your locs and interlocking for your reties aka loc maintenance.
What are Microlocs?
Microlocs, just like sisterlocks that are smaller than ‘small traditional locs’. However, you have a variety of smaller sizes and variety of techniques to begin your starter locs. Starter locs is just a term that refers to beginning stage of your locs that have been established or installed. There are several forms to start Microlocs: interlocking root to tip, two-strand twists, braids, or coils. They are maintained by either interlocking or palm-rolling. Microlocs and sisterlocks can look very similar depending what size you get and if you get your microlocs started with interlocking.
What is Interlocking?
Interlocking is a method used to interweave hair strands together to create a loc without any additional styling products for the natural locking process to take place. Sisterlocks are interlocked. Interlock is one of the starting loc processes for microlocs.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between microlocs vs sisterlocks there’s no right or wrong answer. It just depends on what you want out of your hairstyle! Both are beautiful choices. You will be free from the pain and never have to detangle your hair again while having limitless versatility with your hair. You can expect 350+ locs for both options.
I offer Microloc starter locs in 3/8 sq up to 1/2 sq in size installed by using either the interlocking (like my locs) or two-strand twist methods. This gives my clients a variety of options and price points. Then I maintain my clients’ locs, whether they have Microlocs or Sisterlocks with only interlocking.