Wicks Hair: The Style’s Origins and How to get it

In recent years, wicks hair locs have exploded in popularity and are quickly becoming a trend. One of the most common misconceptions about wicks locs is that they are all the same, but that is far from the truth. 

Not all locks are the same. Their sizes, methods, and length differentiate one type of loc from the other. 

Wicks locs are quite common, and there is a good chance you have seen one without realizing it. They are basically very thick dreadlocks that are famous for standing straight up while they’re still short. The style has become quite popular among celebs and everyday people. But how and where did these unique locks originate? 

Wicks Hair Locs Origin

While there is no way to know the exact origin of this hairstyle, it is generally believed that wicks locs became super popular first in south Florida. 

However, it didn’t really get its spotlight nationwide until celebrities started wearing the style. Kodak Black is an excellent example. 

It got its name from the wick of a candle because it stands up straight rather than falling over. But the locks eventually hang downwards once they grow in length. Wicks dreads are some of the thickest dreads. They are so thick that some have between 4-10 wicks on their head.

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 How to Grow Wicks Hair Locs 

The first question most people have is, “How long should my hair be to have wicks locs?”

To start your wick hair journey, your hair needs to be about 5 inches long. Wicks need to be thick, so it requires a lot of hair to stand a few inches higher than your scalp after forming a wick. 

Starting with enough hair also improves the cultivation process and makes the journey less expensive. It also means you get to have wicks locks right off the bat. You wouldn’t have to wait weeks or months to see your locs in full glory.

Unfortunately, some can’t endure the process of crocheting long sections of hair. It can take hours to form and maintain wick locs. 

Methods for making Wicks Hair Locs 

The crochet wick combine method

The crochet wick combine method is the most popular way of creating a wick loc. This process requires you to combine the locs with a crochet needle. Using this method, you get your wicks instantly rather than waiting for them to grow over time. 

Start by sectioning your locks and loose hair by placing rubber bands only at the root of each section. 

Begin forming your wicks using a single, double, or triple prong crochet needle to create your wick’s internal structure, which eventually determines its external shape. 

While holding your locks in your hands, begin crocheting. Start close to the root of the locs and pull the crochet tool in and out of the section. 

Repeat this process until the loc starts to have a rounded shape. If you’re doing it right, the hair should begin to fuze and tangle in a cylindrical shape. Gradually make your way up the section of the hair to form a full wick. 

Crochet Wicks Hair Extensions 

If you want long wicks right now and your hair is too short, you should consider using wick extensions. They can be used to start your wick journey, or they can be added to make your wicks longer. 

For this method, it’s best you visit a specialist to have your wicks installed. 

The Wicks Hair free form method

For the free form method, you start with free form locks and comb the locs over time. What that means is that you allow your hair to grow and lock freely with no special style. Just wash, oil, and let it grow. 

When you notice your hair roots fusing into one loc, separate them according to the thickness and number of wicks you want to have. 

This method allows you to choose to separate the locs as they grow, giving you more control over the style and thickness of your locks.  However, it is important to note that free-form wicks won’t look as cylindrical as crochet wicks. 

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The Wicks Hair Rubber Band Method

The rubber band method is a great way to start wicks on loose hair. All you need to do is group your loose hair into large sections and put rubber bands down the length of each section. 

Leave the rubber bands for 3-4 weeks the first time around. After this period, take off the rubber bands and check if your hair is starting to loc. 

If it isn’t locked yet, put back the rubber bands and wait another 3-4 weeks. Repeat this process until your hair locs. Once your hair locs, you no longer need rubber bands. 

Tips on How to Care for Wicks Locs

• Try to maintain a consistent size for your locs. This makes them look more uniform. 
• Wash and care for your wicks regularly. Use a clarifying shampoo to wash once or twice a month, depending on how quickly they get dirty. 
• After washing your wicks, dry with a microfiber towel, then air dry or blow-dry until your hair is completely dry to prevent mold and mildew from growing. 
• Oil and moisturize your scalp frequently.
• Don’t forget to cover your hair at night with a silk or satin bonnet or scarf. 
• Use rose water and lightweight oil on your wicks to keep them hydrated
• It is possible to retighten wicks by using the rubber band or crochet method. 

While wicks style locs seem to be from Florida, it is a style that has spread across the globe. If you like wicks locs and want to grow one, we hope you go for it!