The LOC Method

You may have heard this term thrown around on hair care forums, but what is it exactly? The LOC method is simply an acronym that stands for liquid, oil, and cream. It’s a three step process used to lock in and retain moisture.  Anyone who is constantly complaining, like myself, that their hair is always dry should try this method. The best part about it is that you don’t necessarily have to use products in that order. Like with everything, there is room for experimentation. Some people use the LCO method (liquid, cream, than oil) or the LOCG method (liquid, oil, cream, and gel). 

The best way to figure out what works for your hair is to do several strand tests. When I say several I mean really go to town. I did about ten strand tests making sure to use at least one or two strands without any product at all as comparison. What worked the best for me were two different methods. 

On dry hair I used As I Am Leave-In Conditioner as my liquid, my Curly Pants Hair Frosting as my oil and cream, and lastly I used aloe vera gel. On hair that is damp you are already starting off with water as your liquid. So on damp hair I added coconut oil, then Karen’s Body Beautiful Butter Love. I prefer using the LOC method on already damp hair or hair that has been spritzed with water. My hair has much better results because of this. It not only retains moisture a lot longer, but is also soft and shiny. 

I tried several different variations of the LOC method, but for your hair to retain moisture you must use water or a water based leave-in conditioner first. How can your hair retain moisture if you’re not giving it moisture to begin with? Then you can use an oil of your choice and either a water based cream or an oil based cream. Depending on your method or the products you use, your hair may very well look as if you piled on a bunch of different things.  It’ll look ashy or still gooey with white stuff. Do not freak out! I had the same problem. However, as my hair dried, the appearance of too many products completely disappeared. Much needed patience is in order. It’ll take some time before you figure how to benefit the most from the LOC method. 

What are you waiting for? Throw on your lab coat and start experimenting!