What To Do About Frizz: Clipper Edition

Now that I am back on Instagram, I find that it is a gift and a curse. I am blessed with connecting and laughing with folks in my community; but at the same time I am made aware of utter foolishness like what I am about to share with you. A video of a woman using clippers to remove the frizz from locs. You read that right— CLIPPERS ON LOCS. This video really took me out. I honestly still feel like I am in disbelief. And if you’re having trouble believing this is really something that happened, watch the clip:

Using Clippers on Locs for Frizz

So I share this clip with you, not to have some foolishness live rent-free in your head, but as a warning. Cutting the frizz on the outer part of locs is a major no-no; and using clippers to do it is even worst. I can acknowledge that frizz can be one of the more difficult parts of having locs for some people. I know this because I’ve seen videos of people using scissors, hot combs, and relaxers to try to control the frizziness of their locs. Nevertheless, I still cringe each and every time I witness the abuse inflicted on the beautiful locs under either the scissors, scorching iron, or brush filled with creamy crack. And seeing the clippers used on locs was no different. But I can explain why these methods are so problematic. Not just from the shock factor of seeing it, but how it will impact that locs.

My Rant About Hating Frizz

Before we get to the impact of the clippers, I need to hop on my soap box. I posted a video on my YouTube with my initial thoughts about this controversy and I do want to make it a discussion. Check out the video and share your thoughts…

Now back to the problem…

Why Using Clippers on Locs Is a Problem

I’m sure if you’ve ever seen one of my videos where we look at locs under the microscope, you’ve seen the inner loc matrix. Inside of the locs you can see how each and every hair is interconnected and used to support the strength of the locs. One of the things you will also see is how the hair strands inside the locs also sometimes travel outward. Which creates— you guessed it— frizz. So when you remove the frizz from the outside of the locs, you also remove the inner strength of the locs. But the impact is not seen immediately. It is not like you trim the hairs on the outside of the locs then the locs breaks off. The damage is gradual. Typically within 6-12 months the locs get weaker and begin to thin out.

Now please go tell a friend to tell a friend never to let anyone use clippers, scissors, hot combs, or relaxers on their locs to “control” the frizz!! Frizz is a (beautiful) part of the journey, just embrace it!