“…I was ready to either cut it off or loc it up!”

—@TheQualityName

Photo Credit: Mom

I am so excited that Diamond (aka @TheQualityName) agreed to share a glimpse into her loc journey in this month’s Crown Chronicle! Her personality, effortless joy and beauty, and, of course, thick locs are just a few reasons why I enjoy following her journey. It was the fineapple style that did it for me! You may have spotted her iconic images on social media, in magazines or billboards near you; but if you’ve never seen her, treat yourself below!

Tell us about yourself!

I am a 24 year old Professional Facial Expressionist——lol no, but seriously— a content creator for predominately Black Women Owned businesses, model and day trader! I graduated from Howard University in 2017 and from there I became a serial entrepreneur. My ventures range from e-commerce—I’ll be reopening my online store Vantage Black in a few months—to audiobook recording!

Why did you choose to loc your hair?

I chose to loc my hair because I was exhausted from her upkeep. I’ve had long, dense and thick hair my entire life and I was ready to either cut it off or loc it up! Back in 2013, I had a low tapered cut so I decided to go with locs instead and it’s the best decision I’ve ever made!

What method did you use to start your loc journey?

I’ve had my babies for 2 years (August 23,2018). I started my locs with two strand twists.

How often do you maintain your roots?

I maintain my roots roughly every 4-6 weeks. I have maintained my locs since the beginning of my journey! I’ve always done my own hair so, it just happened this way naturally; but, I’m not opposed to going to a stylist!

Photo Credit: Eric Jordan 
@jordanviision

What are a few of your favorite products to use on your locs?

I absolutely love Free the Roots Nature’s Medicine Bar and Jamaican Mango and Lime Island Oil! Other than distilled water and castor oil, I typically shy away from using products because I’m fearful of preventable buildup.

What lessons have you learned during your loc journey?

I’ve learned quite a few things honestly! The main thing I’ve learned is to love every part of my being regardless of its “imperfections”. Locs have this beautiful way of existing in their own world uninhibited by “standards”. Through them I have learned that things are exactly as they should be in their perfect timing.

Photo Credit:
Kaziym @juszkaz

What advice would you give to someone just beginning or considering locs?

I would tell them to start! It’s always scary experiencing change but honestly it’s one of the best decisions you’ll make! Listen to your hair, she’ll tell you everything you need to know! Everyone’s locs are unique to them so fall in love with your locs and not your expectations!

Photo Credit:
Tatyanna Brown @tatyannachamere

where people can find you online?

I can be found pretty much anywhere:
IG: @thequalityname
YouTube: The Quality Name
Twitter: @thequalitynamed