My Locs Are Thinning, Now What?!

Thinning locs are not a natural part of the locking process. Unfortunately, thinning has become very common in the loc community. And let me be the first to say, there are many, many reasons why locs start to thin but it is often a lack of direction that makes locs continue to thin. However, because you’re here I know that you care and what to improve what you’re experiencing, so allow me to offer some direction…
 
 

Identify the Causes of Thinning Locs

The first thing you want to do when you’re experiencing thinning with your locs is identify what is causing the thinning. I have a detailed article about the most common causes of thinning that I highly encourage you to read. Identifying what is causing your thinning will help you to understand how you can prevent it from happening in the future. You will also gain clarity on whether what you are experiencing is something within your control.

Identifying the causes of thinning locs may be something that you can do on your own, but you may also need to seek the advice of a professional. A few professionals that you may want to contact include a Dermatologist*, Trichologist and/or a Certified Loctician.
*—if you are a member of my Cultivator Community, you will find the list of the recommended Dermatologists in the Journey space.

After you have identified what is the cause of your thinning locs, the next thing you want to do is have a plan. The treatment plan, or hair care regimen that you are given may include changing your lifestyle, adjusting the way you are grooming your locs or a combination of both. Where many people tend to make the biggest mistake with this step is assuming that there’s one product— vitamin, oil or shampoo— that is going to solve all their issues. However, when addressing thinning locs is best to take a holistic approach, which helps to prevent thinning or other issues from reoccurring.

Can Thinning Locs Be Saved?

Yes— as long as you’re consistent!

With the cause of the thinning identified, a plan of action created, the next step is to be consistent. It sounds easy, but honestly, for most people, consistency is one of the hardest things. Being consistent with your treatment plan for your thinning locs will get you the best results. Without consistency, your locs will be worse off. Either your locs will continue to thin and/or break off, or you will not see improvement. So consistency wins— every time!

Should I Repair or Let Go of Thinning Locs?

This is a tricky question, because it all depends…

Let’s say you only have a few locs that are thinning along the shaft. Maybe the cause is styling, maybe a past health concern, or maybe you were twirling your locs a little too much. Generally speaking, thinning along the shaft can be repaired using (human) afro kinky hair, a crochet needle, and the Interlacing technique. On the other hand, if you are experiencing thinning at the roots, it may be best for you to release the loc(s) in that area. I know many people will tell you to combine locs that are thinning at the roots. However, if the base area around the loc(s) cannot support the weight of the combined locs, it will lead to more thinning. I chat about this, all too common (avoidable), issue in the “BEWARE of Combining Locs to Make Them THICKER!” video.

With all this being said, I encourage you to seek professional help as soon as possible! Please try to avoid the temptation to aimlessly ask people how to fix your issue— they will keep you on the path of wondering. I think you prefer clarify and solutions (it’s why you’re here, right?!). And as Dermatologist, Dr. Yolanda Lenzy, a hair loss expert, often says “time is follicles”, so the sooner you act, the more likely you can save your locs!