If you’re considering getting Sisterlocks, first of all — welcome to the journey! ✨ Sisterlocks are beautiful, versatile, and deeply rooted in culture and self-expression.
And if you’re here to simply learn more about Sisterlocks then you’ve come to the right place.
I’ve had Sisterlocks for over 8 years, and I have never been more in love with my hair than I am now at this very moment, all thanks to me finally taking the plunge in January of 2018.
The freedom, the versatility, the confidence boost, the polished look, I could go on and on about the positives, but at the same, I strive to always keep it real for people want to learn about Sisterlocks.
So here we are.
Before you book that consultation, here are five important things you need to know:
1. What Sisterlocks Actually Are
Sisterlocks are a trademarked microloc system created in the 1990s by Dr. JoAnne Cornwell. They use a specific locking technique and grid pattern that can only be installed by a certified consultant.
Unlike traditional locs, Sisterlocks are:
• Much smaller in size
• Installed using a precise parting system and interlocking method
• Created without wax, gels, or heavy products
They’re lightweight, versatile, and designed to work with your natural texture — not against it.
So now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, I’d bw remiss if I didn’t mention some of the less glamorous facts about Sisterlocks that some may overlook.
2. The Installation Is an Investment (Time + Money)
Let’s talk REAL numbers.
Your installation can take anywhere from 10 to 20+ hours, sometimes split over multiple days. The cost typically ranges from $800 to $2,000+, depending on your hair length, density, and location.
This is not a quick salon visit — it’s a commitment. But many women, including myself, see it as a long-term investment in freedom, ease, and natural hair health.
3. Maintenance Is Consistent (Especially at First)
Sisterlocks require regular retightening, especially during the first year. Most people go every 4 to 6 weeks in the beginning.
Why? Because:
• Your hair is still learning to “loc.”
• Proper maintenance helps establish a strong foundation.
• Skipping reties can lead to slippage or thinning.
Eventually, some people can learn to retighten themselves — but that takes training and practice. I, am NOT one of those people. Although my loctician, shout out to Melissa, did empower me by teaching me the basics on how to maintain my locs, I’ve only ever done the perimeter of my hair because doing the whole head is my idea of cruel and unusual punishment….but I digress.
4. There Is a “Starter Phase”
Your Sisterlocks won’t look full and fluffy on day one.
In the beginning:
• They may look thin.
• They may feel fuzzy.
• They may bunch or shrink.
This is what many of us in the loc’d world refer to as the awkward phase of Sisterlocks. I created a detailed YouTube video breaking this down and you can watch that here:
That “awkward stage” is normal. Locs mature over time. The magic happens in patience. Around the 6–12 month mark, you’ll likely start seeing real transformation — thicker, more uniform locs and increased length retention.
Trust the process.
5. It’s More Than a Hairstyle — It’s a Journey
For many women, Sisterlocks represent:
• Embracing natural texture
• Cultural pride
• Low-manipulation hair care
• A shift in identity and confidence
They offer incredible versatility — curls, updos, braids, bantu knots — without daily styling stress.
But here’s the key: You have to be ready for the commitment. Sisterlocks are beautiful, but they require care, patience, and intention. And let’s not forget about the cost. Retightenings can range anywhere from $120 to $200 every 4-6 weeks. Ensuring you factor the price of locs into your considerations is the smart thing to do.
Before getting Sisterlocks, ask yourself:
• Am I ready for the upfront investment?
• Am I prepared for regular maintenance?
• Am I willing to be patient during the starter phase?
If the answer is yes — you may be ready to begin one of the most freeing hair journeys of your life.
And when those locs start flourishing? Whew. It’s a whole vibe. ✨
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P.S. if you want to learn more about locs (the good, bad, and ugly), I encourage you to check out my Sisterlocks Playlist on YouTube, and make sure you’re subscribed to my channel: @tiffofili.
Dr. Tiffany Ofili Porter 