LOC Method For Different Hair Types: What Is It & How To Do It?

Living with curly hair isn’t easy. Despite all your time and effort, it still looks messy. In that case, it is high time you include the LOC method in your hair care routine. The Liquid, Oil, and Cream method involves applying all these products in the said order to improve the moisture content of your hair. Read this article for more insights into this path-breaking method and its use for different hair types. Scroll down.

What Is The LOC Method?

LOC stands for liquid, oil, and cream.

This method is the best way to keep your textured/relaxed hair moisturized for days. The unique feature of this method is the systematic application of hair care and hair styling products in a specific order for maximum moisture retention. Ideally, this method involves three steps: application of liquid, oil, and cream. These products work together to lock moisture into each strand.

The liquid opens up the cuticle and allows moisture to enter the strand. Once the cuticles are open, the oil penetrates the hair shafts. This will soften your hair while the cream seals in the moisture until you wash your hair. Ken, a blogger, shared her experience of using the LOC Method and was very pleased with the outcome. She writes, “Since I began using this combination, I have seen a major difference in the moisture levels of my hair. My hair was already soft before using this method, but since the use of this method and products, my hair is truly moisturized, easier to detangle, and overall, more manageable (i).” She adds that incorporating this method into her hair regime made her hair look more moisturized and conditioned.

Irrespective of whether you have curly, kinky, or coily hair, this method is ideal for you.

These products create a protective layer over each strand and ensure that moisture remains in the hair shafts.

Fun Fact

The popular moisturizing LOC method was coined and developed by Rochelle Graham-Campbell, founder and CEO of Alikay Naturals.

How To Do The LOC Method

Step 1: Apply Leave-In Conditioner

Start by applying a liquid – such as a leave-in conditioner – to your hair. Make sure to use a water-based product. For better results, divide your hair into four sections before applying the product to each section. Finish off by combing each section to distribute the product evenly. If you don’t want to use a leave-in conditioner, you can also take water in a spray bottle and spritz it onto your hair.

Step 2: Apply Oil

Apply a little bit of the natural oil of your choice. This step can be a little tricky as the type of oil you choose needs to match your hair’s porosity level. Not sure what your hair porosity is? Click here to find out!

• For high porosity hair, use heavy oils such as castor oil or olive oil.

• For normal porosity hair, use medium oils such as jojoba oil, pumpkin seed oil or sunflower seed oil.

• For low porosity hair, use light oils like avocado or argan oil.

Step 3: Apply A Cream

For the final step, apply a creamy moisturizer to your hair to lock-in the moisture. This cream also defines your curls and helps you style your hair. You can even apply styling products at this point to style your curls.

Along with the LOC method, even the LCO method gained a wave of attention in the hair care industry in recent times. But, what’s the difference? Just the placement of letters? Well, there’s more to it. Let’s look check out the differences between them in the next section.

What Is The Difference Between LOC vs. LCO Methods?

• LOC Method – Here, you need to use a liquid-based product first, then an oil, and finish off with a moisturizing cream.

• LCO Method – Here you need to use a liquid-based product first, then a cream, and finish by oiling your curls.

• LCO Method – The LOC method suits 4A, 4B, and 4C hair types, and the LCO method suits 3A, 3B, and 3C hair types.

• LCO Method – The LOC method makes your hair more manageable while the LCO method can weigh your hair down.

• LCO Method – The LOC method works for fine hair, and the LCO method is suitable for dry, damaged, and thick hair.

Now that you know how to follow the LOC method, let’s check out the best types of products you can use for your Afro-textured hair to do it!

LOC Method Products For Different Hair Types

Do you know what your natural hair type is? If not, click here to find out.

For the final step, use thick products like hair mousse, hair souffle, cream moisturizer, or hair butter.

• 3A Hair

1. Liquid

For 3A hair type, look for ingredients that are light in consistency. These products will not weigh your hair down and make your curls silky and bouncy. Using a lightweight formula will allow you to apply it sparingly.

2. Oil

Add a thin layer of lightweight oil to your hair. Take a peanut-sized amount and spread it on your palms. Work it into your hair by massaging each strand.

3. Cream

Apply a lightweight cream and air-dry your curls to avoid frizz.

• 3B Hair

1. Liquid

For liquid, use a lightweight formula that does not leave behind an oily residue on your hair and scalp.

2. Oil

Hair oils like avocado, grape seed, and coconut oils are excellent for 3B hair.

3. Cream

For the final step, use thick products like hair mousse, hair souffle, cream moisturizer, or hair butter.

• 3C Hair

1. Liquid

If you have 3C hair, use a creamy leave-in conditioner that is slightly heavy. This will provide adequate moisture to your hair.

2. Oil

Mix castor oil with some almond or coconut oil. This will give you an oil with a balanced consistency, which is ideal for 3C hair. Anecdotal evidence suggests that these oils may also help improve hair density and boost hair growth.

3. Cream

Finish off by using a shea butter-based product or a styling cream for perfectly moisturized hair.

• 4A Hair

1. Liquid

Before you start the LOC method, cleanse your hair with a moisturizing shampoo. Then, apply a creamy leave-in conditioner. This will prepare your moisture-resistant hair to absorb the oil.

2. Oil

Use medium-weight oils like jojoba oil, castor oil, or sweet almond oil to seal in the moisture. These oils will prevent the moisture from evaporating.

3. Cream

Apply a good amount of creamy hair butter. If your hair still feels dry, apply another layer of oil and cream.

• 4B Hair

1. Liquid

For 4B hair, use thicker products to get the best results. If you want to retain maximum moisture, co-wash your hair before trying out this method. For this step, apply a thick leave-in conditioner to damp hair.

2. Oil

Use natural oils like coconut oil, castor oil, or sesame oil to help retain the moisture.

3. Cream

Since your hair bonds are densely packed, use thick hair creams to make it more manageable.

• 4C Hair

1. Liquid

This hair type needs products that are a bit heavy as it is incapable of retaining moisture. Use a heavy, creamy leave-in conditioner that is infused with heavy oils.

2. Oil

Oils like castor, olive, and argan oils can be used on this type of hair. You can even mix them in equal proportions before applying them to your hair all at once.

3. Cream

For the last step, use organic shea butter or a cream that is infused with heavy oils.

Fun Fact

Many people added variations to the LOC method to suit their hair better. The most common extension of the method is the LOCG – G stands for ‘gel’ to lock hair moisture.

Now, you must be wondering how often you need to do the LOC method. Scroll down to find out!

How Often Do You Need To Perform The LOC Method?

While it’s safe to say that the LOC method can be done every day, it actually depends on the amount of products you use on your hair. Using too many products can weigh your hair down, creating a ton of product build-up on your hair and scalp. One way to avoid this is by applying just a little bit of conditioner, oil, and cream daily, without going overboard. Also, add a clarifying shampoo to your regimen if you are using heavy oils and butter for effective hair and scalp care. You may also indulge in DIY hair care recipes and hair protein treatments to nourish your tresses in between the LOC sessions.

Infographic: Things You Will Need To Follow The LOC Method

The LOC method can keep your hair moisturized for days. The systematic application of hair products in a specific order can seal moisture in your hair. This method only requires three main products to perform. However, other tools like using the right brush for hair detangling help support this process better. Check out the infographic below to learn what else you need to follow the LOC method.

Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the LOC method last?

The LOC method keeps your hair moisturized for several days at a stretch. You can follow this method every time you wash your hair, which could be once every few days. Do not delay your washing session beyond two weeks to avoid product build-up.

Is the LOC method done on wet hair?

Yes. The LOC method works best on well-hydrated hair. It is recommended to try this method after washing your hair and while it is still damp.

Is it healthy to LOC your hair?

Yes. The LOC method can help seal in moisture, which can help your hair’s health. However, it is important to choose the right hair care products that are suitable for your hair type and texture to avoid hair damage due to harsh chemicals.

Does LOC hair grow faster?

There is no scientific evidence that suggests that LOC can grow hair faster. However, using hair products made with ingredients that promote hair growth may be helpful.

How to prepare your hair for the LOC method?

To prepare your hair for the LOC method, start with cleansing your hair with a gentle shampoo or co-wash to remove all impurities and product buildup. Rinse thoroughly and towel dry before applying the leave-in conditioner.

What are the dos and don’ts of the LOC method?

Dos: Use a water-based leave-in conditioner, natural oils, and cream-based moisturizer in order to get moisturized hair with LOC.

Don’ts: Avoid using greasy oils, overusing hair products, and applying them in the wrong order.

Illustration: LOC Method For Different Hair Types: What Is It & How To Do It?

Image: Dall·E/The Bridal Box Design Team

Learn about the science behind the LOC and LCO methods. Discover how these methods can help you achieve your goals by clicking on the video below.

Personal Opinion: Source

i. The LOC/LCO Method + My Homemade Moisturizing Cream/Mixture
https://keepingupwithkurlyken.blogspot.com/2014/07/the-loc-method-and-my-handmade.html