Sisterlocks vs. Dreadlocks: Which is Better?

There’s something striking about a woman with healthy locks. Even those of us who don’t want to lock our own hair has openly admired the beauty that women like Ledisi, Goapele, Erykah Badu, and Lauryn Hill exuded while wearing the style.

If you’re thinking of starting locks, you’re probably weighing all of your options. What size do you want them to be? What method will you use? What’s the difference between traditional locks and sisterlocks? Here is some information that will help you make a wise decision when comparing sisterlocks vs dreadlocks.

Some of the factors to take into consideration when getting Sisterlocks

What Are Sisterlocks?

Sisterlocks are tiny uniform locks that are usually started as small braids. As hair grows, new growth is incorporated by reverse braiding toward the scalp using a small hook-like tool. No hair extensions are needed, and you can start with less than 2 inches of unprocessed new growth. When properly cared for, sisterlocks can grow to waist length in about 10 years!

Sisterlocks is a natural hair management system that allows women with tightly textured hair to take advantage of a wide range of today’s hairstyles without having to alter the natural texture of their hair.

Time Frame

One of the biggest differences between sisterlocks and traditional locks is the time it takes to get the hairstyle. It can take up to 18 months for traditional locks to mature, while sisterlocks only take about 6 months to fully lock and can be obtained in a few visits to a sisterlocks consultant.

How Much Hair Do You Need?

In general, Sisterlocks can be started with as little as 11/2 inches of natural, unprocessed hair. Although shorter hair can be caught in a locking pattern, having at least 11/2 inches ensures that the first stages of locking are easier to manage.

What are the Benefits?

Sisterlocks are thinner and more flexible than traditional locks, which makes them easy to curl and pin into up-swept hairstyles. Another huge benefit is that with sisterlocks, you can keep your relaxed ends (as long as you have 11/2 inches of naturally textured new growth.) With traditional locks, on the other hand, your hair must be completely natural with absolutely no relaxer.

Are Sisterlocks only for Type 4 hair?

Any hair that has a natural curl or wave pattern is right for sisterlocks. According to their website, they have developed several “locking patterns,” one of which is just right for your hair type.

How are they different from other locks?

Sisterlocks are real locks; they differ from traditional ones in the technique used to form them. This method uses a precise parting grid and a tool to produce small, effortlessly styled locks. Sisterlocks does not use any waxes, gels, creams, or hair extensions, which means everything that can add weight, stress, or hamper your hair growth is eliminated.

Are Sisterlocks Permanent?

During the first 6 months of development, sisterlocks can be removed. Removal will likely take more time and be more costly than your initial locking session. Therefore, you should be sure that the sisterlocks method is right for you.

Is it expensive?

I’ll be honest with you. I’ve heard that sisterlocks can cost a grip! Far more than any quote I’ve ever heard for traditional locks. There’s the initial consultation, which can cost hundreds of dollars. Followed by a locking session, the first follow-up visit, and a customer starter kit which all come as a package.

Not trying to break the bank? If you want to get the look for less, there are tons of YouTube tutorials on how to install them. However, if you take the DIY route – do so at your own risk. When embarking on a new hair journey, it’s always nice to have a professional start you off in the right direction.

Can Men wear Sisterlocks?

Yes! But, we would not call them Sisterlocks. They would be called Brotherlocks.

What is the difference between Dreadlocks, Traditional Locs, and Sisterlocks?

“Dreadlocks” are associated with the Rastafarian people. They are traditionally left in their natural state by not doing anything to them. “Traditional” Locs are “Cultivated”– meaning palm rolled or twisted–groomed. Sisterlocks are tiny stylable locks that are not twisted and that are very versatile and manageable.

Can children wear Sisterlocks?

A resounding Yes! More and more parents are getting sisterlocks put in their children’s hair because you can put her hair in ponytails, curls, and braids. Besides, it’s less time-consuming in the morning to get ready for school! Boys can get “Brotherlocks.”

Can I add extension hair to Sisterlocks?

Because sisterlocks is a trademark system that uses YOUR OWN hair to create the locks, your locks could not be called sisterlocks.

Can I change hairstyles once I get Sisterlocks

Yes! Sisterlocks are much less limiting than extension braids because they are your natural hair. You can curl it, braid it, wear a ponytail, cut it, spray or mousse it, wear bangs and parts –You name it!

I have very fragile hair; can I wear Locs/Sisterlocks?

Because of the process of creating locks–palm rolling-sisterlocks are much gentler on the hair–sisterlocks would be the recommended hairstyle for fragile hair.

Do I have to cut my perm off to start Locks/Sisterlocks?

If locks are your chosen style, YES, you would have to cut off all the permed ends in order to create uniform locks. If Sisterlocks™ is your chosen style, NO, you do not have to cut off the permed ends; as long as you have an inch and a half or two inches of NEW growth, you can keep your perm and get sisterlocks.

My hair is only 2 inches long. Is it long enough to get Sisterlocks?

Yes! Your hair would only need to be an inch and a half to two inches long in order to create sisterlocks.

How long does it take to put Sisterlocks in?

The initial locking process takes about two-thirds as long as getting extensions of comparable size. For medium-length hair, this means about seven to ten hours, depending on the density of your hair and the size of your head. The beauty of sisterlocks is that tightening them as your hair grows out is extremely simple since there are no extensions to remove or re-set.

I have very tight and kinky hair. Can I wear Sisterlocks?

Yes! Absolutely, your hair type is perfect for sisterlocks. The coarse, thick, “nappy” hair is best for sisterlocks. Your natural abundant texture adds body and makes styling easier.

Can I get Sisterlocks if I have relaxed/perm hair?

Yes, though the transition will take more time, some techniques can make the transition easier. Your styling options will increase as your natural texture grows out.

My hair is a “fine” texture. Can I get Locks/Sisterlocks?

Yes, to both hairstyles.

What if I don’t like the tiny size of the Sisterlocks? Can I get them bigger?

Typically sisterlocks have an average size pattern that is put in the hair. If the locks are too big, the hair can not get around the “special tool” used to create sisterlocks… If you prefer the larger size locks, it is recommended that you get “traditional” locks put in.

Can I put grease, gel, or beeswax on my Sisterlocks?

It is not recommended that those products be used on your sisterlocks. There are specially formulated products created just for Sisterlocks.

Can Sisterlocks be taken out?

Yes, though the procedure is very tedious. Once you consider Sisterlocks, you would look at it as being permanent. Once you discover the range of freedom you have with Sisterlocks, you won’t want to go back! Finally, there is a way of celebrating the natural beauty of our hair with Sisterlocks.

I have Alopecia Areata. Can I wear Sisterlocks?

It is recommended to check with your doctor first before putting Sisterlocks in. Depending on the severity of your case, Sisterlocks can help. There is no stress on the hair or scalp, and you can wear various styling options to fill in the ‘blank’ spots.

Can I do the locks myself?

This is not advised. Not all hair types require the same locking technique. To ensure that your locks are put in correctly and that you will experience lasting beauty with your locks, it is highly recommended that you get a trained professional Sisterlocks Consultant to do the honors.

Can’t I just get my Sisterlocks, or do I need a Consultation?

Yes, it would be best if you had a consultation before getting the Sisterlocks. Call or write to www.sisterlocks.com to find a consultant to set up a consultation in your area.

How much does Sisterlocks cost?

All Sisterlocks Consultants are “Independent Consultants,”–so the investment varies from person to person. Call or write Sisterlocks.com and find out what a fair price should be. If you find that someone’s price is too expensive, the Sisterlocks home office can probably recommend someone else that will meet your needs.