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A fresh retwist should last. But the wrong gel turns that clean session into a sticky mess of white flakes and limp roots by day three.
Not every gel is built for locs. Most mainstream styling products coat the hair without supporting the locking process, leaving buildup that dulls your shine and suffocates your scalp over time.
The best lock gel for dreadlocks does more than hold. It feeds moisture into each strand, keeps frizz flat without crunch, and washes out clean when it’s time. These nine picks cover every loc type and stage, from starter twists to mature, fully locked hair.
Table Of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Top 9 Best Lock Gels for Dreadlocks
- Style Factor Lock Booster Twist Grip Styling Solution
- Lion Locs Moisturizer for Locks
- Taliah Waajid Black Earth Lock It Up Tight Hold Six Ounce
- RACosmetics Dr Naturals Superior Locking Gel
- Stylin Dredz Moulding Gel Wax Twist Lock Maximum Hold
- AllDay Locks Braid Gel Extreme Hold
- Murray Gel Lock Hair Styling Gel
- Ors Lock and Twist Gel Pack of 1
- Bronner Brothers Tropical Roots Firm Locking Gel 6 Fl Oz
- How to Choose The Best Lock Gel for Dreadlocks
- Benefits of Using Lock Gel for Dreadlocks
- What Are Locs and Why Does Gel Matter?
- How to Apply Lock Gel for Best Results
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Which gel is best for dreadlocks?
- What’s the best thing to use to lock dreadlocks?
- What is the best hair gel for locs?
- What gel should I use to retwist dreadlocks?
- What should I use to remove locking gel from my hair?
- How often should I retwist my locks?
- Are locking gels safe for color-treated hair?
- How can I stop my locks from itching?
- Are locking gels suitable for all hair types?
- Can lock gel be used on children’s locs?
- Conclusion
Key Takeaways
- Choose a water-based, residue-free locking gel that matches your loc stage, with lighter hold for starters and stronger hold for thick or mature roots.
- Top options include Style Factor for firm flexible hold, Lion Locs for lightweight moisture, and AllDay Locks or Bronner Brothers for stronger grip.
- Apply only a small amount to clean, damp, sectioned hair, retwist with steady tension, and dry fully to prevent frizz, flakes, and sticky buildup.
- Prioritize scalp-friendly ingredients like aloe, glycerin, panthenol, and lightweight oils, while avoiding heavy waxes or overapplication that can dull locs over time.
Top 9 Best Lock Gels for Dreadlocks
Finding the right lock gel can make or break your loc journey, so the picks below were chosen with hold, health, and real-world results in mind.
Explore these top locking gels for dreads to find a formula suited to your texture, hold needs, and finish.
Each one brings something different to the table, whether you’re just starting out or maintaining mature locs.
Here are the nine best lock gels worth keeping in your rotation.
Style Factor Lock Booster Twist Grip Styling Solution
If your twists keep unraveling before the day is done, Style Factor Lock Booster might be exactly what’s missing from your routine.
This twist grip styling gel delivers a firm, flexible hold that keeps locs defined for up to 24 hours, with no flaking and no white residue left behind.
Rub a small amount between your palms, work it through damp hair, and let it do the rest.
| Product Type | Locking gel |
|---|---|
| Loc Use | Yes |
| Retwist Use | Yes |
| Hold Level | Strong |
| Frizz Control | Yes |
| Textured Hair | Compatible |
| Additional Features |
|
Lion Locs Moisturizer for Locks
Where Style Factor keeps hold front and center, Lion Locs Moisturizer for Locks brings hold and hydration together in one bottle. Made with aloe vera and natural oils, it keeps locs defined and moisturized without leaving flakes or sticky residue.
It suits all loc stages, from fresh starters to fully mature dreadlocks. The lightweight, residue-free formula dries clear and clean. Some users do note the hold can feel watery on thicker locs, so apply light layers and gradually build up from there until you find your sweet spot.
| Best For | Anyone at any stage of their loc journey who wants a lightweight styler that keeps locs defined while actively moisturizing and preventing dryness. |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Styling gel |
| Loc Use | Yes |
| Retwist Use | Yes |
| Hold Level | Strong |
| Frizz Control | Yes |
| Textured Hair | Compatible |
| Additional Features |
|
- Combines hold and hydration in one product, saving you an extra step
- Residue-free formula dries clear without flakes or stickiness
- Works for all loc stages, from starter locs to fully mature dreadlocks
- Hold can feel watery or weak, especially on thicker or more mature locs
- Some users feel the price doesn’t match the performance
- Reports of inconsistent texture and appearance over time suggest formulation may vary batch to batch
Taliah Waajid Black Earth Lock It Up Tight Hold Six Ounce
Lion Locs leans into hydration, but if you want something with a firmer grip, Taliah Waajid Black Earth Lock It Up is a name the natural hair community knows well. The alcohol-free formula is non-greasy and cuts down on flaking and buildup, so you get cleaner, fresher-looking locs between wash days.
The real standout is the herb-powered ingredient mix: Yarrow root, Rosemary, Nettle, and Indian Hemp work together to support your scalp while keeping your style locked in. It also reactivates with water, making it easy to refresh your style without starting from scratch. One heads-up: on thicker locs, some users find the hold a bit light, so build up layers gradually and see what your hair needs.
| Best For | People with locs or textured hair who want a non-greasy retwist gel that can be refreshed with water between wash days. |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Locking moisturizer |
| Loc Use | Yes |
| Retwist Use | Yes |
| Hold Level | Light |
| Frizz Control | Yes |
| Textured Hair | Compatible |
| Additional Features |
|
- Provides a tight, non-greasy hold for retwists and everyday loc maintenance
- Infused with Yarrow root, Rosemary, Nettle, and Indian Hemp
- Reactivates with water for easy restyling
- Hold may be too light for thicker locs or certain hair types
- Can leave flaky residue if overapplied or used in some conditions
- Value may feel inconsistent if the hold does not perform well for your hair type
RACosmetics Dr Naturals Superior Locking Gel
Moving up from Taliah Waajid’s lighter, water-reactivated grip, RACosmetics Dr Naturals Enhanced Locking Gel gives you firm, flexible hold for retwists that need to stay neat.
This natural plant gel smooths frizz and flyaways without turning your locs stiff, dry, or greasy.
The 7.2-ounce jar has a thinner consistency than some expect, so use small amounts on damp roots and work it through evenly. It dries clean, resists flakes, and users report a pleasant, non-irritating scent during regular maintenance sessions.
| Best For | People with locs or textured hair who want a natural, non-flaking gel with firm yet flexible hold for neat retwists and regular maintenance. |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Retwist gel |
| Loc Use | Yes |
| Retwist Use | Yes |
| Hold Level | Medium |
| Frizz Control | Yes |
| Textured Hair | Compatible |
| Additional Features |
|
- Holds retwists neatly without making locs feel stiff, dry, or greasy
- Plant-based gel helps smooth frizz and flyaways while resisting flakes
- Pleasant, non-irritating fragrance reported by users
- Thinner consistency may be unexpected for those who prefer a thicker locking gel
- Hold strength and longevity can vary by hair type and application technique
- Natural formulas may have a shorter shelf life than synthetic alternatives
Stylin Dredz Moulding Gel Wax Twist Lock Maximum Hold
For retwists needing real grip, Stylin Dredz pairs gel control with wax-like staying power. Tea tree oil and glycerine help keep the scalp comfortable while you shape starter locs, mature roots, or edges.
For texture-specific guidance, explore these natural hair care product reviews before choosing your retwist gel.
Use a small amount on clean, damp hair, then twist and air-dry or diffuse. It dries clear when applied lightly, though too much can feel sticky or leave residue. The maximum hold formula comes in a 4-ounce jar.
| Best For | People with textured hair who want strong, long-lasting hold for starting, retwisting, or maintaining locs and styling edges. |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Locking gel |
| Loc Use | Yes |
| Retwist Use | Yes |
| Hold Level | Firm |
| Frizz Control | Yes |
| Textured Hair | Compatible |
| Additional Features |
|
- Maximum-hold gel-wax formula helps twists and retwists stay neat.
- Tea tree oil and glycerine help moisturize the scalp and reduce dryness.
- Dries clear without white residue when used sparingly on damp hair.
- Overapplying or using it on dry hair may cause stickiness, flaking, or white residue.
- Hold may not last as well on very thick locs or during heavy activity.
- Some users may experience buildup with prolonged use.
AllDay Locks Braid Gel Extreme Hold
A sleek retwist starts with serious grip, and AllDay Locks Braid Gel delivers it for locs, twists, cornrows, and clean edges. Its lavender, tea tree, and peppermint mix helps calm dryness while smoothing frizz for a polished finish.
Apply sparingly to damp, sectioned hair, then twist quickly because it sets fast. The 9.27-ounce jar rinses clean and resists flakes when you don’t overload it. Too much, though, can leave a white cast.
| Best For | People with braids, locs, twists, cornrows, or textured hair who want strong, long-lasting hold and smooth edge control. |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Gel-wax |
| Loc Use | Yes |
| Retwist Use | Yes |
| Hold Level | Maximum |
| Frizz Control | Yes |
| Textured Hair | Compatible |
| Additional Features |
|
- Extreme hold helps keep intricate protective styles neat without frequent reapplication.
- Botanical oils, castor oil, amino acids, and pro-vitamin B5 add moisture, shine, and frizz control.
- Rinses cleanly and dries without flakes or residue when applied sparingly.
- Overapplying can cause a white cast, flaking, or a greasy feel.
- Sets quickly, so sections need to be styled promptly after application.
- May not suit fine hair or anyone sensitive to tea tree, peppermint, or other botanical ingredients.
Murray Gel Lock Hair Styling Gel
For a retwist that needs control without turning your locs stiff, Murray Gel Lock brings a cream-based hold that works especially well on thinner sections and clean updos. Olive oil and sweet almond oil add light conditioning, helping strands feel softer and look shinier while you shape the roots.
Its water-soluble formula shampoos out easily, so it can suit you if heavy waxes, strong fragrances, or stubborn buildup have caused trouble before. Work a small amount from roots to ends on damp or dry hair, then twist and let it air-dry or use gentle heat to set.
Use a small amount: its slippery texture spreads easily but can run, and eye contact may cause temporary warmth or throbbing.
| Best For | People looking for a cream-based, water-soluble loc retwist gel with light conditioning for softer, shinier results. |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Braid gel |
| Loc Use | Yes |
| Retwist Use | Yes |
| Hold Level | Extreme |
| Frizz Control | Yes |
| Textured Hair | Compatible |
| Additional Features |
|
- Olive oil and sweet almond oil help moisturize hair and add shine.
- Water-soluble formula shampoos out easily without heavy buildup.
- Provides flexible twist and loc hold without a stiff finish when properly applied.
- Watery consistency may slide or run during application.
- Hold strength and residue-free results can vary by hair type and application.
- Contact with eyes may cause a temporary warm or throbbing sensation.
Ors Lock and Twist Gel Pack of 1
ORS Lock and Twist Gel is a smart pick when you want roots to stay neat without that hard, shell-like finish. Its lightweight cream-gel texture gives touchable hold, helps tame frizz, and leaves a clean shine without waxy buildup or flakes.
Use it on wet or dry hair, working a small amount through each section before palm-rolling or twisting. It sets well under a warm dryer, which helps your retwist stay smooth all day. The 12.96-ounce jar suits repeat maintenance. Still, very coarse or resistant hair may need a firmer gel, and curly hair can lose spring with heavier application.
| Best For | People with locs, twists, or natural styles who want flexible, flake-free hold and smoother-looking roots without stiffness. |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Cream gel |
| Loc Use | Yes |
| Retwist Use | Yes |
| Hold Level | Flexible |
| Frizz Control | Yes |
| Textured Hair | Compatible |
| Additional Features |
|
- Lightweight, touchable hold helps define locs and twists without crunchiness.
- Tames frizz and adds shine without waxy buildup or flakes.
- Works on wet or dry hair and sets well under a warm dryer.
- May not hold strongly enough for very coarse or resistant hair. Those with coarser or more resistant textures may find better results by exploring edge control techniques tailored for Afro-textured hair, rooted in traditions that stretch back over a century.
- Heavier use can reduce curl spring and leave twist-outs softer.
- Hold can vary depending on hair texture and application method.
Bronner Brothers Tropical Roots Firm Locking Gel 6 Fl Oz
Need a gel that can keep resistant roots from unraveling by lunchtime? Bronner Brothers Tropical Roots Firm Locking Gel brings extra-firm hold in a 6-fluid-ounce bottle, making it a choice for starter locs, retwists, braids, and two-strand twists.
The formula uses pineapple fruit extract, guava fruit extract, and vitamin B12, with no silicones, parabens, sulfates, alcohol, or dyes. Work a small amount section by section, then palm-roll, finger-twist, or comb-twist for cleaner parts and controlled frizz. It leaves shine without a sticky, greasy feel.
Even so, its hold gets mixed reviews. Some users expected firmer hold, and it can look white when overapplied. Build slowly.
| Best For | People maintaining starter locs, retwists, braids, or twists who want controlled frizz and a non-greasy finish. |
|---|
- Extra-firm hold helps define protective styles and seal ends.
- Silicone-, paraben-, sulfate-, alcohol-, and dye-free formula with pineapple, guava, and vitamin B12.
- Adds natural-looking shine without a sticky or greasy residue.
- Hold may not feel firm enough for very resistant or coarse roots.
- Can leave a white appearance if too much product is applied.
- The 6-ounce jar may feel small for the price.
How to Choose The Best Lock Gel for Dreadlocks
The right lock gel keeps your retwist neat without leaving your locs stiff, flaky, or weighed down. Focus on hold, scalp-friendly ingredients, and a formula that suits your hair’s needs, especially if it’s color-treated. Here’s what to look for before choosing your next jar.
Hold Strength and Formula Type
Hold Strength should match your loc stage and styling goal. Light or medium hold works well for starter locs and soft retwists, keeping separation without making your hair feel stiff.
Choose a Strong Hold or quick-set Formula Type for thick, mature locs, detailed styles, or humid days. These gels create Longlasting Hold, smooth No Frizz edges, and help your fresh retwist stay crisp. A systematic comparison of hold, buildup, and frizz aids data-centered product evaluation before you choose.
Scalp-Safe Key Ingredients
Strong hold means little if your scalp feels tight, itchy, or dry. Look for natural ingredients such as aloe and niacinamide to calm sensitivity, especially after frequent retwists.
Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and panthenol bring moisturizing properties that support scalp health and keep locs flexible. Choose products that balance frizz control with a gentle, residuefree formula designed for regular grooming sessions.
Residue-Free and Non-Flaking Picks
A comfortable scalp deserves a gel that washes away clean. Choose a residuefree option that clears in one shampoo, without sticky film, white specks, or lint-catching buildup along your locs.
Look for a nonflaking formula that stays flexible as you twist, sweat, and move. It should provide strong hold and frizz control while supporting buildupfree styling between retwist days.
Color-Treated Hair Compatibility
Fresh color deserves a gel that protects your investment, not one that slowly pulls pigment from every retwist. Choose Color-Treated Hair Compatibility with alcohol-free, low-pH formulas, Natural Ingredients, and light moisturization for dependable Hold and Frizz Reduction. For retwists, a color-safe locking gel for dreadlocks helps preserve vibrant tone while providing flexible, non-dulling hold.
- Keep your shade rich
- Protect shine between appointments
- Seal thirsty, porous strands
- Style without dull-looking locs
- Feel confident in every retwist
Scent, Texture, and Washability
Color-safe gel should also feel right every retwist. Choose a light scent or fragrance-free formula if your scalp reacts easily, since perfume can linger after styling.
| What to check | Best fit |
|---|---|
| Texture | Smooth, non-tacky |
| Washability | Rinses after one shampoo |
A lightweight Texture helps Strong Hold and No Frizz without heavy buildup. Warm water improves Washability, thick waxy gels need cleanse.
Benefits of Using Lock Gel for Dreadlocks
The right lock gel does more than keep a fresh retwist neat—it helps your locs look and feel their best between appointments.
From smoothing flyaways to supporting moisture and a healthier scalp, the formula you choose can make a real difference.
Here are the key benefits to look for when using lock gel on your dreadlocks.
Frizz Control and Smoothing
A quality lock gel creates frizz control by coating each loc without making it stiff or greasy. Silicone-based gels and humidity shield polymers smooth raised cuticles, helping your retwist look polished while flyaways stay in line.
Look for a longlasting formula with natural ingredients that helps hair smoothing through humid days. The result is visible frizz reduction and cleaner definition between maintenance visits.
Deep Moisture Retention
When your retwist needs softness as much as hold, choose a hair gel for locs with glycerin, betaine, or lightweight oils. Deep moisture retention keeps strands supple between washes, especially in protective hairstyles.
- Your locs feel nourished
- Your scalp stays comfortable
- Your texture looks alive
- Your natural hair care feels intentional
It helps moisture retention daily without leaving roots heavy.
Hair Breakage Prevention
Protect your locs from unnecessary snapping by choosing gel with moisturizing properties that keeps strands flexible during twisting and drying. Natural ingredients like aloe, glycerin, and lightweight oils add slip, so you can detangle with less pulling.
A formula with strong hold and frizz control also limits repeated manipulation. Blot wet locs, use a wide-tooth comb, and keep styles loose for better hair breakage prevention.
Long-Lasting Hold and Definition
Long-Lasting Hold keeps your Dreadlocks neat long after you leave the chair. A strong gel film locks each twist into place, delivering crisp Definition with No Frizz through busy days, sweat, and humidity.
- Clean parts that stay sharp
- Twists that don’t come loose
- Edges that look polished
- Style confidence that lasts
Let gel dry fully before touching your locs.
Scalp Health and Growth Support
Healthy locs start at the scalp. Water-based gels with aloe, glycerin, and panthenol keep skin hydrated without clogging follicles, easing that tight, itchy feeling after a fresh retwist.
Healthy locs begin at the scalp, where water-based gels keep follicles clear and skin hydrated
Look for natural ingredients like rosemary, tea tree, and vitamin E for scalp health and hair follicle nourishment. JBCO helps castor oil hair growth by reducing breakage, which helps your length stay on the journey.
What Are Locs and Why Does Gel Matter?
Locs form through a range of methods and textures, so your styling routine should match where your hair is in the journey. The right locking gel helps new twists stay neat while giving mature locs controlled, residue-conscious hold. Here’s what to know before choosing a formula for your locs.
Types of Locs and Textures
Locs can be traditional, microlocs, Sisterlocks, or freeform, and each responds differently to care. Your curl pattern, density, hair porosity, and strand thickness shape the final look.
- Tight coils often create rope-like locs.
- Fine hair may form slimmer locs.
- Coarse hair builds fuller strands.
Choose a natural hair gel with hair texture compatibility and a hold level that suits your style.
How Locking Gel Aids Formation
Your texture and hair sectioning method set the foundation, then locking gel helps each twist stay put during retwists while it sets. It creates a light film that encourages neighboring strands to interlock, supporting dreadlock formation with strong hold and no frizz.
| What gel does | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Adds grip | Limits slipping |
| Forms film | Binds strands |
| Dries clear | Reduces residue |
Starter Vs. Mature Locs Needs
That grip matters differently as your journey grows. Starter locs need lightweight, moisturizing gel with flexible hold, so twists stay neat without stiffness, buildup, or unraveling during washes.
Mature locs can handle strong hold for crisp retwists, humidity control, and no frizz. Choose moisturizing formulas that rinse clean, because heavier locs can hide residue like dust under a rug.
How to Apply Lock Gel for Best Results
The right technique helps your lock gel hold roots neatly without leaving your locs stiff, flaky, or weighed down.
Start with a clean foundation, then use controlled application and drying to make the style last.
Follow these practical steps for a smoother retwist and healthier-looking locs.
Prepping Hair Before Application
Start with a clean, fully rinsed scalp and hair that feels fresh, not coated. Use sulfate-free shampoo, then condition only from mid-length to ends with lightweight moisturizing hair products.
Pat dry with a microfiber towel, leaving hair about 60 percent dry. Support hair hydration and scalp moisturization without heavy oils, then focus on sectioning hair for application with clips so every loc gets even coverage.
Step-by-Step Twisting Technique
With your parts clean and clipped, apply a small amount of gel from root to tip for even gel distribution. Smooth flyaways, then use your chosen twisting technique, turning each strand clockwise with steady tension.
Build from the root upward, keeping every wrap in the same direction. Finish with the palm rolling method, pressing each twist flat at the scalp. Keep loc retwisting routine.
Drying for Maximum Hold
Once each loc is twisted, dry it gently so your strong hold can settle without inviting frizz. Keep airflow moving from scalp to ends, never blasting against your fresh retwist.
- Feel confident in a clean finish
- Protect your roots from heat stress
- Keep each palm rolling method crisp
- Let air drying work patiently
- Use a hooded dryer on low
Check every 10 minutes.
Avoiding Buildup and Flaking
Avoiding buildup keeps your retwist clean instead of cloudy. Use a small amount of gel, choosing a noflake formula with lightweight texture and nongreasy hold.
| Watch for | Do this |
|---|---|
| White specks | Rinse thoroughly |
| Sticky roots | Clarify weekly |
Massage your scalp gently, then dry completely. Residue buildup prevention also means avoiding silicone-heavy gels that cling to locs.
Reapplication and Maintenance Tips
Keeping dreadlocks neat takes consistent reapplication, not heavy product. Reapply gel every 2 to 4 days after washing or spritzing, only when your scalp is fully dry.
Use a light touch on new growth, then let the strong hold set for 5 to 10 minutes. Alternate with water-based moisture for no frizz, and inspect weekly for residue or dull spots.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which gel is best for dreadlocks?
Style Factor Lock Booster Twist Grip is a top choice for strong hold and no frizz. Its natural ingredients support dreadlock maintenance, giving fresh twists clean definition, flexible texture, and longlasting hold without heavy buildup.
What’s the best thing to use to lock dreadlocks?
Think of it as the anchor for your roots: a strong-hold, no-frizz formula with natural ingredients gives control for dreadlock formation. Choose a water-based gel that helps with scalp comfort, easy washout, and dependable loc maintenance.
What is the best hair gel for locs?
The best hair gel for locs is a water-based locking gel with strong hold, no frizz, and natural ingredients like aloe or castor oil. It keeps dreadlock maintenance neat without stiffness, flakes, or heavy buildup.
What gel should I use to retwist dreadlocks?
For a retwist that stays put, use a strong hold water-based, noflake gel with aloe or panthenol. It helps loc tightening, keeps roots neat, and makes dreadlock maintenance easier without heavy buildup.
What should I use to remove locking gel from my hair?
Use a sulfate-free shampoo to lift locking gel, then follow with a diluted apple cider vinegar rinse. Skip petroleum and harsh cleansers. Choose waterbased, noflake formula products with an easy to wash out, noresidue formula for product buildup avoidance.
How often should I retwist my locks?
Like tending a garden, retwist new locs every 2–3 weeks early on, then every 4–6 weeks as they mature. Avoid excessive tightening for hair breakage reduction; protective styling and proper loc maintenance preserve your hold level.
Are locking gels safe for color-treated hair?
Locking gels can work on color treated hair when you choose chemicalfree hair products, a crueltyfree gel, siliconefree and preservativefree formulas. Apply lightly, patch-test, and avoid alcohol-heavy gels that dry strands, dull color, leave buildup.
How can I stop my locks from itching?
An itchy scalp feels like sand at your roots. Choose scalp-safe gel, cleanse gently, add jojoba oil, sleep in silk, limit touching, and retwist for scalp health, scalp care, scalp soothing, hair-moisture-barrier, and scalp-irritation prevention.
Are locking gels suitable for all hair types?
Most hair types can use locking gel, but match hold and moisturization to your texture. Fine hair needs lightweight formulas, while coarse locs handle stronger hold. Choose water-soluble, fragrance-free options to reduce frizz, dryness, and scalp buildup.
Can lock gel be used on children’s locs?
Yes, use a small amount of alcohol-free gel with a lightweight texture on clean, damp locs. Prioritize moisturizing and scalp health, rinse thoroughly, and avoid hard-drying formulas that can cause flakes or hair breakage.
Conclusion
Like a good foundation, the right lock gel keeps every retwist steady while your locs do the real work.
Choose the best lock gel for dreadlocks by matching hold to your texture, checking for nourishing, residue-free ingredients, and applying it sparingly on cleanly on clean, damp hair.
Your routine doesn’t need a shelf full of products, just one formula that respects your scalp, protects your strands, and lets each loc show its strength naturally for the long haul.
