How-To: Co-Wash + Use The LOC Method for Curls and Natural Hair
There's been a lot of talk about co-washing and the LOC Method lately. What exactly are they and who should use them? Here, we break down those questions and more to tell you everything you need to know about the routine everyone with curls and natural hair should be using.
What Is Co-Washing?
Co-washing is short for “conditioner-only washing.” Ideal for coarse, curly and dry hair, it involves using a cowash (also known as a cleansing conditioner), in place of shampoo, once or twice a week, for softer, more manageable hair.
Can You Use A Regular Conditioner?
No, because it doesn’t cleanse the hair and can lead to unwanted buildup. It’s important to use a product that’s made specifically for co-washing like Tea Tree Lavender Mint Moisturizing Cowash. This creamy, non-lathering formula gently cleanses hair while helping to replenish essential moisture.
How Do You Co-Wash?
First detangle your hair, then completely saturate and wet your hair. Apply Moisturizing Cowash just like you would apply a shampoo or conditioner. Massage a generous amount of cowash onto wet hair and scalp. Rinse well. Style as usual.
How Often Should You Do It?
Co-washing is most effective when used in between your regular shampoo routine. For best results, alternate once a week with your favorite Tea Tree shampoo. However, cowashes are so gentle and moisturizing, “daily wash” lovers can use them as often as they want.
When Would You Choose To Use A Cowash Versus A Regular Shampoo?
It doesn’t have to be either/or. Using both can make a complete hair care regimen. If you cleanse with Lavender Mint, Tea Tree Special or Lemon Sage Thickening shampoos weekly, cowash can be used in between to gently cleanse the scalp and nourish hair.
What Is The LOC Method?
It’s a product layering technique that helps hair retain moisture for healthy, hydrated curls. While the amount of product used should be customized to fit the needs of hair, the order of application always stays the same. Our Tea Tree Lavender Mint products are perfect for the practice.
What Does LOC Stand For?
- L is for leave-in conditioner that is liquid-based like Lavender Mint Leave-In Conditioner.
- O is for oil like Lavender Mint Nourishing Oil.
- C is for cream like Lavender Mint Taming Cream.
What Are The Benefits Of This Technique?
The leave-in conditioner provides moisture to dry hair and curls, and the oil and cream help lock it in. If done properly, it can help a curlfriend to go longer periods without having to add more hydration.
What Types Of Curls Benefit From It?
Curl types like 3A, 3B, 3C, 4A, 4B and 4C typically benefit the most from this method because of the high-porosity that can naturally occur based on their texture and curl formation. Finer and wavier textures can benefit if the strands have a hard time retaining moisture due to a dry environment or chemical or thermal damage.
How Do You Do It?
Detangle and separate clean, damp hair into four sections. Start by applying the leave-in conditioner, followed by the oil and then the cream to each section. Customize it to fit your hair’s hydration needs, repeating this application throughout hair.
Find more information on how to care for coarse, curly and dry hair here.
