The short answer
Sisterlocks are micro-sized permanent locs created from 100% of your own natural hair. No extensions, gel or wax are used. The hair is parted into a deliberate grid and each section is locked with a fine tool, which is why the finished locs are small, uniform and light.
How the installation works
Your loctician first checks density, texture and length, then agrees a lock size and grid with you. The install itself is done section by section and, for most hair, takes 12 to 30 hours split over two or three sessions.
For the first few months the locs are still settling. They may look slightly puffy at the roots and shrink a little in length — both are normal and settle as the locs mature.
Living with Sisterlocks
Because they are small and made of your own hair, Sisterlocks can be washed, tied up, curled, braided and worn in almost any style. Maintenance is a retightening appointment roughly every 4 to 6 weeks.
They are a commitment: removing them without cutting is possible but slow, so it is worth trying temporary human hair Sisterlocks first if you are unsure.
Frequently asked questions
How long does hair need to be for Sisterlocks?
About 8 cm (3 inches) of even natural growth is a comfortable minimum for a clean install.
Do Sisterlocks damage your hair?
No, when installed and retightened at the correct tension. Damage comes from over-tightening, heavy extensions and product build-up, not from locs themselves.