Don't delay on the prep, the sooner you do it the better!
If the past has shown me anything it's that guests that choose to prep their hair before having new locks installed tend to have less of an issue with dandruff and itchiness! Spending a month (or two) prior to your install reducing the frequency of your shampoo cycle means your scalp will have more time to adjust its oil production to a less frequent wash cycle -- think of it as a way to make your first few months just a little less stressful.
You'll notice that over time you may need to readjust your washing cycle a few different times based on your activity level, and also depending on the season -- however, those changes tend to be tailored to each individual personally. Locked hair can get away with washing anywhere between once-twice per week, to every other week, up to once per month --- no two heads are the same, but I will do my best to help guide you through finding your perfect lock routine.
- Week One/Two: if you're a daily washer, try alternating your "hair washing days" -- if you're already washing every other day, start by subtracting only one "hair washing day" from your week.
- Week Two/Three: continue subtracting "hair washing days" until you are washing only three times per week. At this point if you haven't switched to a clarifying shampoo, please do so (I personally suggest Giovanni's Tea Tree Shampoo).
- Week Three/Four: by this time you should be down to only washing once, or twice per week. If you're able to span this period out to two full weeks it will help a ton during your first few months. At this point you'll want to also stop using conditioner if possible.
Once you've balanced your wash routine there isn't much more to prep for except for the excitement of getting those locks installed. Do keep in mind that if you plan to wash the night before your installation, please be sure that your hair is thoroughly dry before you come in. Unfortunately, utilizing the crochet method on wet or damp hair can cause irreparable damage to the lock.
