Looking for a way to keep your dreadlocks in check while maintaining a great style? Loc jewelry, loc ties and loc cuffs are great ways to accessorize your locs and add a little hair flair to your everyday style.

Loc Jewels & Loc Beads

Loc jewels are handmade, one of a kind jewelry you can wear to express the natural mystique that you already carry and to further enhance your personal style — hair flair as we like to call it! Depending on the thickness of your locs, loc jewels and loc beads may require the use of a special tool in order to gently work the locs through the accessory. A loc threader is useful in making this process easier. Using the loc threader will ensure that your locs do not “bunch up” while attaching the jewels, beads and cuffs.

First, thread the tool through the end of your chosen loc. Then simply align each loc jewel or loc bead alongside the threader and thread the tool through the loc bead to guide the loc through the bead or jewel. Carefully thread the loc through the accessory and position over the locs. Once the accessory is on, simply slide it to the desired position. Be sure to slide it over the thickest part of the loc. Think of it like placing a ring on your finger. You want the bead to slide over the “knuckle” part of your dreadlock so that it doesn’t slide off.

Loc Cuffs

The first step when using a loc cuff is to ensure that the end of your chosen loc is as smooth as possible. Next, gently but securely hold each loc in place as you slide the cuff from the bottom of the loc up to the desired position. If you select a loc somewhat larger than the cuff’s diameter, the cuff will remain in place until you remove it. Placement of loc cuffs can be used according to your particular style preferences.

Loc Ties

Loc ties are intended to be used for large sections of locs and are especially designed to accommodate the thickness of locs. The band is made with enough elasticity to stretch over very thick locs without damaging them. One of the  benefits of using a loc tie, as opposed to a regular ponytail holder, is that our loc ties are made without any metal clasps or clips to hold the band together. This is especially important to protect your hair from snags, tears and further damage thus helping it maintain its health and vitality.

To use your loc tie, first, gather your locs with one hand while holding the loc tie with the other. Wrap the band around your locs and secure them by gently pulling the beaded ornament through the loop, then using the toggle clasp to securely hold the loc tie in place. The loc tie can then be slightly adjusted according to your personal preference.

There are two different lengths to choose from. Small loc ties are typically used around ponytails, whereas large loc ties can be banded around gathered locs several times or worn as a headband.

For Best Results With Your Loccessories…

For best results, always choose one of your locs (or twists or braids) that has a tapered end. This will make it easier to get the loc started when threading it through a loc bead, loc jewel or loc cuff. You also want to select a loc that is slightly thicker than the opening in the adornment. And be sure to slide the accessory high up enough along the shaft of the loc to hold its position. If you are concerned about the loc sliding, you can use the thread included with your loc threader tool to secure it in place. Your loc threader tool is free and included upon request.

Lastly, it’s a good idea to remove your natural hair accessory prior to washing your hair unless your goal is for the jewel to become permanently attached. This won’t be an issue with the loc beads because of their thickness but since some of the loc jewels styles use wire and are many times coiled bands, decide your preference (permanent or removable) prior to washing the hair to avoid tangling.

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Hair Jewelry for Locs

Hair Jewelry for locs is kind of a new thing but at the same time it isn’t. While there have always been individual crafters who’ve fashioned different accessories to adorn and maintain dreadlocks, hair accessories for dreadlocks didn’t really exist in the mainstream until now.

Now you can find dread cuffs and beads in common marketplaces like the beauty supply store, Amazon and even Walmart.

The downside is that the variety of styles found in those places is limited and the quality is pretty low. If you’re looking for a quick style for the weekend, and beads or dread cuffs that look like everyone else’s then this option will be fine.

But if you’re looking for something truly unique or pieces that will last beyond a few wears, outings or rainfall, then you’ll probably want to get your hair jewelry for your locs from an artisan or crafter.

Why?

Because they are more likely to select materials of higher quality, use metals that won’t tarnish when wet, incorporate precious or semi-precious stones, use quality crystals like Swarovski in their designs and create pieces that have meaning in some way or another (ex. lava rock for aromatherapy benefits).

Basically, you’ll get much more variety and better quality with an artisan than with mass market hair jewelry for locs. The long and short of it is if you are looking for a quick hit, then beauty supply store finds will do the job. But if you’re looking for pieces that last, specialty artisans is the way to go. Both are acceptable options, it’s just a matter of your particular needs and preferences. Do you want Payless or Red Bottoms? No judgement, simply a matter of choice, budget and longevity.

My favorite place to find unique hair decorations for locs is at art fairs, summertime festivals and cultural events, believe it or not. Usually you can find artists at cultural festivals & events who’ve made some unusual, on-of-a-kind pieces. The upside is that you won’t see yourself coming and going when you shop this way. The downside is that cultural festivals aren’t always around your area and limited to Spring/Summer season so access is limited.

If convenience is a concern, Loccessories online store also offers seasonal collections which includes loc jewelry, loc ties and other hair accessories designed to accommodate dreadlocks special needs. *Shameless Plug* Head on over to the shop to have a look at what loc jewelry we are currently featuring.

Hair Jewelry for Braids & Twists

You’re probably wondering if you can use loc jewelry as hair jewelry for braids & twists too? The answer is Yes.

Hair jewelry for locs will also work as hair jewelry for braids.

However, there are just a few considerations when choosing the best hair jewelry for your braids.

Again, you have to ask yourself are you purchasing the hair jewelry to wear for a little while or for the long term? Is it just to create a cute style for CurlFest or do you want the pieces to last the next year or two or three?

Knowing this in advance will guide which type of hair jewelry you ultimately select for your braids & twists. Because if it’s just a quick style for a weekend event, or a week long vacation, then quality won’t be as big of a concern.

Although, even if this is the case, I still recommend that you remove your hair jewelry before washing, swimming or otherwise getting soaked. Cheaper dread beads and loc cuffs will tarnish easily and turn green, leaving green rings around your locs and braids…and not in a cool, this is my ombré hair color look kind of way either.

Also consider the size of your braids when choosing your hair jewelry. A lot of dread cuffs are made of a thin metal, have an opening and therefore adjustable, but actual loc jewelry usually comes with a fixed size attachment. So you’ll want to make sure that you know the approximate diameter of your braids before purchasing loc jewelry to make sure that it will fit your braids.

 

Choosing the right size is important because you don’t want to loose your favorite piece out in the wild because it was too big. Or find that you can’t even wear it because the hole is too small for your braids. Twists have a little more flexibility because they can compress easier than a braid, but it’s still a good idea to measure first.

*Important Consideration* No matter which route you choose for your hair jewelry, be safe. Examine the beginnings and endings of your loc jewels, spirals, cuffs and so forth. What you don’t want is any sharp edges. For example, sometimes loc coils will have an unfinished or rough edge that is left open to snag and pull your hair. Check any metal closures which could also cause snags because while it will be easy to slide on and look cute for the style, taking them out will cause issues. So just be mindful and do a quick check for the edges when applying your hair jewelry.

 

Loccessories are designed to enhance your appearance and provide you with various styling options to set off your signature style. Feel free to check out our shop to find your fave.

The beauty of Loccessories statement hair jewelry is that the collections are uniquely designed and handcrafted. With the help of K. Hill’s creative hand, you can rock your locs, braids & twists with the ultimate confidence and style!

 

This is some of the most fun you’ll ever have in an accessories store, so come visit us often for new styles featuring natural stones for that earthy appeal, cowrie shells for a bit of cultural flair, or Swarovski crystals when you want a touch of bling. Once you receive your items, be sure to stop back through and let us know how you rock your Loccessories — we’d love to see your customer photos!

Do you have a specific question about loc jewelry? Drop a comment below and we’ll do our best to point you in the right direction (and no, that doesn’t just mean pointing you to our products, although we would love it if you did shop with us…smile).