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Wash mature locs

Wash established natural locs with gentle scalp contact, supported lengths and separate rinses for the scalp and hair. Work in small groups so water reaches hidden areas.

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 5

    Wet the scalp and locs

    • Under comfortably warm running water, move small groups aside so water reaches the crown, sides and nape.
    • Support the lengths and let water pass through each group, including thick sections and ends, until thoroughly wet. Keep the roots relaxed.
  2. A man in navy swim trunks gently works shampoo along his scalp with finger pads while holding adjacent mature locs.
    STEP 2 OF 5

    Cleanse the scalp with finger pads

    • Dispense the shampoo amount directed on its label, then put the bottle down. Spread it between your hands.
    • Move a few locs aside with one hand. With the other, gently work shampoo over the exposed scalp using finger pads. Repeat around the head without scratching.
  3. A man supports wet locs and gently presses shampoo lather through their lengths.
    STEP 3 OF 5

    Gently press lather through the lengths

    • Support a small group with one hand and gently press with the other along its length. Keep the locs hanging without pulling at the roots.
    • Move to the next group. Follow the shampoo’s placement directions; do not add extra shampoo to the lengths unless directed. Avoid rubbing locs together or wringing them.
  4. A man lifts small groups of locs under running water so the stream reaches the scalp at his nape.
    STEP 4 OF 5

    Rinse the scalp between the locs

    • Turn under the water and lift small groups just enough to expose the roots. Let water reach the crown, sides, behind the ears and nape.
    • Move to the next area when visible lather has rinsed away. Keep the roots relaxed rather than pulling a whole wet bundle upward.
  5. A man in navy swim trunks presses the lower lengths of his mature locs while running water rinses diluted suds through them.
    STEP 5 OF 5

    Rinse through the lengths and ends

    • Support a small group under running water. Gently press and release along the lengths so water passes through; do not twist.
    • Continue through every group until visible lather is gone and rinse water runs clear. Check thick sections and ends, then rinse any remaining lather away.
    • Repeat only as directed. Complete any instructed aftercare, rinse your hands and clear spills before beginning drying.

About 15–30 min for wetting, cleansing, rinsing and cleanup. Allow extra time for any wait or repeat wash specified on the shampoo label, plus complete drying.

Unmeasured editorial estimate. Saturating and rinsing long, thick or densely arranged locs may take longer; drying is separate.

You’re done when…

The scalp and lengths have been rinsed with no visible lather remaining. The locs are still wet; continue with drying before tying, covering or going to bed.