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Wash mature locs

For established locs that need a regular wash. Gentle scalp contact and thorough rinsing clean the hair while keeping the loc structure intact.

A man in navy swim trunks gently works shampoo along his scalp with finger pads while holding adjacent mature locs.

Step by step

  1. A man in navy swim trunks moves his own mature locs aside under a fixed shower while supporting the hanging lengths.
    STEP 1 OF 3

    Wet the scalp and style

    • Check your locs aftercare and set shampoo and a clean towel within reach. Leave time for full drying afterward.
    • Turn under comfortably warm running water, moving small groups aside so water reaches the crown, sides and nape.
    • Support small groups under the stream until the locs are thoroughly wet through, including thick lengths and ends; keep roots slack.
  2. A man in navy swim trunks gently works shampoo along his scalp with finger pads while holding adjacent mature locs.
    STEP 2 OF 3

    Cleanse between the roots

    • Dispense shampoo as the label directs, then put the bottle down before touching your scalp.
    • Move a few roots aside with one hand. Use the other hand’s finger pads gently along the exposed part; repeat around the head.
    • Work lather gently through the locs as directed, pressing rather than twisting or rubbing them together.
  3. A man in navy swim trunks presses the lower lengths of his mature locs while running water rinses diluted suds through them.
    STEP 3 OF 3

    Rinse through every area

    • Turn under the stream again and move small groups aside so water reaches the scalp behind the ears, crown and nape.
    • Let water run through the locs; gently press and release the lengths to help rinse out lather. Do not wring.
    • Continue until visible lather is gone from the roots and lengths and rinse water runs clear.
    • Repeat only as your shampoo directs. Finish any instructed aftercare, then begin drying; rinse your hands and any spills.

About 15–30 min hands-on for saturating mature locs, cleansing scalp and lengths, thorough rinsing and cleanup. Add label dwell, any extra directed wash and complete drying.

Practical editorial estimate, not measured. Wetting and rinsing thick loc interiors take longer than washing loose roots; long or dense locs can exceed this range.

You’re done when…

Water has reached the scalp and all locs, including underneath, with no visible lather left. The style is rinsed, not yet dry; continue to complete drying.