5 Essential Tips to Achieve Stunning Freeforms

Venturing into the world of natural hair can be a liberating experience, and if you’re drawn to the free-spirited allure of freeforms, this guide will empower you to embark on your unique journey. Unlike other loc methods that require meticulous sectioning and maintenance, freeforms embrace a more organic approach, allowing your locs to form naturally over time. The result is a captivating tapestry of untamed textures and limitless individuality.

The path to freeforms begins with a mindset shift. Instead of striving for perfection, you’ll embrace the beauty of imperfection and allow your locs to evolve at their own pace. This may involve a period of transition where your hair transitions from its current state to its ultimate freeform destiny. Patience and perseverance are key during this phase, as your hair will undergo a transformation that is as unique as your own fingerprint.

While freeform dreadlocks require minimal maintenance, they’re not entirely maintenance-free. Regular washing and conditioning are essential to keep your locs healthy and prevent buildup. However, avoid using harsh products that can strip your hair of its natural oils. Instead, opt for gentle, sulfate-free formulas that nourish and protect your locs without weighing them down. Additionally, periodic palm rolling can help encourage the locking process and promote uniform loc formation.

The 90s Sensation

Freeform locs, also known as freeforms, are a natural hairstyle that gained popularity in the 1990s. Created by allowing hair to grow without any combing, brushing, or manipulation, freeforms are characterized by their unique, unpredictable, and often wild appearance.

The allure of freeforms lies in their unrestricted and effortless nature. Unlike other hairstyles that require constant styling and maintenance, freeforms embrace the natural growth pattern of the hair. This makes them an excellent option for individuals seeking a low-maintenance and authentic style.

In the 1990s, freeforms became a symbol of self-expression and creativity. The hairstyle was particularly popular within the hip-hop and R&B communities. Notable figures such as Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, and Andre 3000 were known for their distinctive freeform locs, which further solidified the hairstyle’s status as a fashion icon.

While trends may come and go, freeforms have remained a beloved and enduring hairstyle. They continue to be embraced by individuals who appreciate their natural beauty and effortless cool.

Embracing Natural Texture

Coils and Curls

Freeform locs are a unique and beautiful way to embrace your natural hair texture. They are formed by allowing your hair to mat and tangle naturally, without any combing or brushing. This can be a daunting process, but it is definitely worth it if you want to achieve a truly freeform look.

To start, simply stop combing your hair and let it do its own thing. You may need to wash your hair more frequently than usual, as dirt and oil can build up in the locs. You can also use a leave-in conditioner to help keep your hair moisturized.

Dreads vs. Freeforms

It is important to note that freeform dreadlocks are not the same as traditional dreadlocks. Traditional dreadlocks are created by twisting and locking the hair, while freeform locs are formed naturally. This means that freeform locs are often more varied in size and shape, and they can also be more delicate.

Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between freeform locs and traditional dreadlocks:

Characteristic	Freeform Locs	Traditional Dreadlocks
Formation	Natural matting and tangling	Twisting and locking
Appearance	Varied in size and shape	Uniform in size and shape
Fragility	More delicate	More durable

Embrace Your Coils

Freeforms, also known as natural dreadlocks, are a beautiful and unique way to wear your hair. They are formed when your hair mats and twists together naturally, creating a look that is both stylish and low-maintenance. If you are interested in getting freeforms, there are a few things you need to do to help your hair along the way.

Step 1: Embrace Your Coils

The first step to getting freeforms is to embrace your natural hair texture. This means avoiding any harsh chemicals or heat styling that could damage your hair. Instead, focus on keeping your hair healthy and hydrated. This will help to create a strong foundation for your freeforms.

Step 2: Stop Combing Your Hair

Once you have embraced your natural hair texture, you need to stop combing your hair. This will allow your hair to start to mat and twist together. You may need to use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle your hair, but avoid using a brush. Brushing your hair can break up the mats and prevent your freeforms from forming.

Step 3: Wash Your Hair Less Frequently

Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of its natural oils, which can make it more difficult for your freeforms to form. Instead, try to wash your hair only once or twice a week. When you do wash your hair, use a gentle shampoo and conditioner that is designed for natural hair. Avoid using any products that contain sulfates or parabens, as these can be harsh on your hair.

Washing Frequency	Recommended Frequency
Daily	Not recommended
Every other day	Not recommended
Twice a week	Recommended
Once a week	Recommended

The Power of Patience

Freeforming takes time, patience counts and it’s your friend when it comes to embracing your natural texture.

While the “no touch” method is the simplest approach, certain protective styles can also help accelerate the process.

Twist outs, Bantu knots, and braids are all low manipulation styles that can help define your natural curls and encourage clumping.

Here’s a breakdown of each method along with its pros and cons:

Method	Pros	Cons
Twist Outs	– Gentle on hair – Helps define curls – Low maintenance	– Can be time-consuming – May not work for all hair types
Bantu Knots	– Quick and easy to do – Helps create volume and definition – Can be left in for extended periods	– Can be uncomfortable to sleep in – May not work for all hair types
Braids	– Versatile and can be customized – Helps protect hair from breakage – Can be left in for long periods	– Time-consuming to install and remove – Can be difficult to maintain

Detangling Techniques

Pre-Detangling

Separate dry hair into small sections and use a detangling spray or conditioner to lubricate the strands.

Wet Detangling

Submerge hair in water to soften and loosen tangles. Use a wide-tooth comb or brush to gently work through knots.

Dry Detangling

Section hair and use a brush designed for detangling, such as a Denman brush or a Tangle Teezer. Start from the ends and gradually work your way towards the roots.

Finger Detangling

Divide hair into sections and use your fingers to gently separate knots. Avoid pulling or yanking on the hair, as this can cause breakage.

Advanced Detangling Techniques

For stubborn tangles, try the following:

Technique	Description
Conditioning Detangle	Apply a generous amount of conditioner to dry hair and leave in for 30 minutes or longer. Detangle using the finger detangling method.
Leave-In Detangler	Use a leave-in detangler on damp or dry hair to minimize friction and prevent tangles from reforming.
Hot Oil Treatment	Warm up coconut or olive oil and apply it to the hair strands. Cover with a shower cap and leave in for at least an hour before detangling.

Moisturizing and Sealing

Moisturizing and sealing are essential steps for maintaining healthy freeforms. Moisturizing helps to keep the hair hydrated and prevent breakage, while sealing helps to lock in moisture and protect the hair from the elements.

Moisturizing

There are many different ways to moisturize freeforms. Some popular methods include:

Using a leave-in conditioner
Applying a hair oil or butter
Using a hair mask

Sealing

There are also many different ways to seal freeforms. Some popular methods include:

Using a hair cream or pomade
Applying a hair wax or gel
Using a hairspray

The best way to moisturize and seal freeforms will vary depending on the individual’s hair type and needs. It is important to experiment with different methods to find what works best for you.

Tips for Moisturizing and Sealing

Here are a few tips for moisturizing and sealing freeforms:

Moisturize your freeforms regularly, especially after washing them.
Seal your freeforms after moisturizing them to help lock in moisture.
Use products that are designed for natural hair.
Avoid using products that contain harsh ingredients.
Be patient and consistent with your moisturizing and sealing routine.
Extra tip 06: Consider using a deep conditioning treatment once a month to help repair and strengthen your freeforms.

Protective Styles for Growth

Achieving freeform locs requires protective styling to minimize manipulation and encourage natural growth. Here are some effective styles to facilitate hair growth:

Braids

Braids section hair into individual strands, preventing tangles and promoting length retention. Styles like box braids, jumbo braids, and cornrows provide protection and encourage growth.

Twists

Similar to braids, twists involve twisting hair strands together. Senegalese twists, flat twists, and two-strand twists are popular choices for protecting and growing hair without putting strain on the scalp.

Loc Extensions

Loc extensions add instant length to natural hair. By bonding synthetic or human hair locs to the existing hair, this technique provides a protective barrier while promoting growth.

Bantu Knots

Bantu knots are small, coiled buns created by sectioning hair into small portions and wrapping them around the base. This style keeps hair contained and minimizes breakage, allowing for undisturbed growth.

Dreadlocks

Dreadlocks are formed by allowing hair to naturally knot and tangle. While dreadlocks can provide some protection, it’s important to maintain them properly to prevent damage and promote healthy growth.

Turbans and Headwraps

Turbans and headwraps cover the hair and protect it from environmental factors like sun exposure and wind. They also prevent friction between the hair and clothing, reducing breakage and facilitating growth.

Protective Styling Regimen

In addition to the protective styles mentioned above, maintaining a healthy hair care regimen is essential for freeform loc growth. This includes:

Step	Description
1. Washing	Wash hair regularly with a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup.
2. Moisturizing	Apply moisturizing products to prevent dryness and breakage.
3. Limiting Manipulation	Avoid excessive brushing, combing, or heat styling.
4. Trimming Split Ends	Regularly trim split ends to prevent breakage and promote healthy growth.

Avoiding Heat Damage

Heat damage is the sworn enemy of freeforms, so it’s essential to avoid it at all costs. Here’s how:

8. Use a Low-Heat Hairdryer

If you must blow-dry your hair, invest in a low-heat hairdryer. You can also use the cool setting on your regular hair dryer, but this will take longer.

Use a diffuser attachment to evenly distribute heat and prevent hot spots. Hold the dryer at least 12 inches away from your hair and keep it moving.

Here’s a chart summarizing the recommended heat settings for different hair types:

Hair Type	Recommended Heat Setting
Fine, thin hair	Low, cool setting
Medium, normal hair	Medium, low setting
Thick, coarse hair	Medium, high setting

No matter your hair type, avoid using the highest heat setting on your hairdryer.

In addition to using a low-heat hairdryer, here are a few other tips for avoiding heat damage:

Don’t over-brush your hair.
Use a wide-tooth comb instead of a brush.
Avoid using hot tools, such as flat irons and curling irons.
Trim your split ends regularly.

The Role of Hair Products

Hair products play a crucial role in the formation and maintenance of freeforms. Here’s a detailed breakdown of their functions:

1. Cleansing

Regular cleansing is essential to remove dirt, oil, and product buildup from the scalp and hair.

2. Moisturizing

Moisturizing products keep the hair hydrated, preventing breakage and tangles.

3. Defining

Leave-in conditioners and curl creams help define and elongate locs, enhancing their shape and texture.

4. Sealing

Sealing products, such as shea butter or coconut oil, seal in moisture and prevent frizz and breakage.

5. Taming Frizz

Anti-frizz serums and hair oils help control frizz and give freeforms a more polished look.

6. Enhancing Shine

Hair glosses and serums add shine and luster to freeforms, making them appear healthy and vibrant.

7. Detangling

Detangling products, such as leave-in conditioners or detangling sprays, help prevent tangles and make combing easier.

8. Hold

Styling gels and creams provide hold and definition, helping to maintain the desired shape of freeforms.

9. Specific Products for Freeforms

Product	Function
Freeform Activator	Promotes the formation of locs by clumping and holding hair together.
Loc Butter	Moisturizes and seals in moisture, preventing dryness and breakage.
Loc Gel	Provides hold and definition, helping to shape and maintain locs.
Scalp Oil	Soothes and moisturizes the scalp, preventing irritation and promoting healthy hair growth.
Locking Sprays	Locks in moisture and creates a barrier against environmental damage.

Achieving Defined Results

Getting and maintaining well-defined freeforms requires consistency, patience, and precise technique. Here are some tips to help you achieve the desired results:

10. Natural Drying

After washing or conditioning your hair, allow it to dry naturally without using any blow dryers or heat tools. This will prevent frizz and promote proper coil formation.

Avoid excessive touching or manipulating your hair while it’s drying, as this can disrupt the coiling process.

11. Regular Moisturizing

Keep your freeforms moisturized with natural oils, such as coconut oil, olive oil, or jojoba oil. Regular moisturizing helps prevent breakage and maintains the definition of your twists.

12. Avoid Harsh Shampoos

Sulfate-based shampoos can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause dryness. Opt for gentle sulfate-free shampoos that are specifically designed for natural hair.

13. Protective Styling

When not styling your freeforms, use protective styles to prevent tangles and breakage. Headwraps, scarves, and bonnets are great options to protect your hair while sleeping or during physical activity.

14. Patience and Consistency

Growing and maintaining freeforms takes time and consistency. Be patient with the process and stay consistent with your hair care routine to achieve the desired results.

How To Get Freeforms

Freeform locs are a beautiful and unique style that can be achieved with a variety of methods. Depending on your hair type and texture, there are several ways to get freeforms. Some popular methods include finger coiling, twist and rip, and neglect.

Finger coiling is a method that involves wrapping small sections of hair around your fingers to create coils. This method can be time-consuming, but it can produce very neat and uniform freeforms.

Twist and rip is a method that involves twisting sections of hair together and then ripping them apart. This method can create a more natural and undone look, but it can also be more difficult to control.

Neglect is a method that involves simply leaving your hair alone and allowing it to form freeforms on its own. This method can take a long time, but it can produce the most natural-looking freeforms.

Ultimately, the best method for getting freeforms is the one that works best for your hair type and texture. If you’re unsure which method to use, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional stylist.