Beginners Guide to Lock Extensions Tools and Accessories

It's absolutely true that lock extensions have easily gained popularity for being one of the most unique protective hairstyles to install; let's face it, they are pretty cute extensions. But when it comes to installing and preserving lock extensions, your technique takes the cake.

If you lack skill or are new to the lock extension world, here's a little secret—the right tools and accessories are important to enhance your technique.

So whether you're a stylist searching for the best tools and accessories, you're new to lock extensions, or you're simply trying to learn tricks that could help you install them, our complete guide on lock extensions tools and accessories will lead you in the right direction. Let's get into it!

Helpful Lock Extension Tools 

Lock extension tools are used to install and maintain your locks. We've listed the lock extension tools must-haves and how to use them.

1. Crochet Hook

Crochet hooks create each strand of dreadlocks with your lock extension. They can come with a single, double, or triple hook and can also tighten and reshape already-formed locks. To use them, attach each piece of lock extensions on the hook of your crochet pin, then insert them into your already sectioned and semi-twisted natural hair. Pull back, twist, and tighten your locks until they are perfectly formed. Crochet hooks will help you in creating really neat lock extension styles.

2. Locking Needle & Nylon Thread

Nylon threads are essential tools for creating lasting lock extensions. These threads when passed through locking needles help form locks that give an appearance of natural dreadlocks. If you're new to the lock extension world, then locking needles and nylon threads are definitely tools you should have because they'd make your lock extensions tighter. They're mostly used when creating sew-in lock extensions. To use them, open a pack of nylon threads and insert them in a needle, then sew each extension onto a sectioned piece of semi-twisted natural hair.

3. Latch Hook

Much like the crochet hook, the latch hook is used to create tight and secure locks with each extension. It is also a great tool for interlocking—making the former lock extensions look new and fresh again by relocking them to create tighter ones. To use the latch hook for interlocking, attach it to a piece of lock extension previously locked onto your natural hair and run it through the roots of your natural hair. You can repeat twice until you're sure each piece looks neat and tightly placed.

4. Tail Comb and Scissors

Just like the name implies, tail combs have pointy tails that make it easy for you to create neat and clear sections before you're able to begin the installation process of lock extensions. They are important tools needed at the very start of your styling process and they make the job of parting your natural hair into neat sections quite easy. To use the tail combs, stretch out the pointy edge towards the area of your hair you would like to section and part into two. The tail Comb also helps to sleek hair together for easy hold and to create texture. Scissors are simply used to trim off rough tips or edges around the lock extensions.

5. Locking Gel or Wax

Locking gel or wax usually helps sleek down or hold the piece of sectioned hair in place; it smoothens the parts and sharpens the form. It's also very useful for pre-locking the sectioned natural hair. To use this gel, apply it carefully in tiny amounts at the base of your natural hair to slick it down and give it a stronghold. You can equally rub it around the sectioned hair and roll the hair to start forming locks before attaching your lock extensions with hooks.

Accessories for Lock Extensions

Lock extension accessories are mainly used to beautify your successfully installed locks. Here are some handy lock extension accessories and their roles.

1. Beads

Beads can come in different colors, styles, and patterns. They mostly have an opening at the side or top and you can easily slide them into your lock extensions in whatever position you like.

2. Cuffs

Cuffs are like stylish rings that can be used to beautify your hair. They can be plastic or metal and can be hooked over your lock extensions and then pressed shut to keep them from falling off.

3. Wraps

Wraps are like yarns or bigger threads that come in different colors and can be tied around the base, tip, or middle of your lock extensions.

4. Bands and Clips

Bands and clips are used to either section your hair or hold your lock extensions together to create different styles.

5. Charms

Charms can come in the form of clips, hooks, or rings with different styles and patterns and can be attached to any part of your lock extensions.

6. Satin Bonnets or Scarves

Wear satin scarves or bonnets before sleeping to help protect your hair and keep your lock extensions looking new and free from frizz.

7. Hair Sprays and Oils

Hair sprays and oils will enhance the look of your lock extensions and scalp, keeping them moisturized and shiny at all times.

Tips and Tricks for Beginners

1. If you're going to install lock extensions, then do it on squeaky clean hair because it's supposed to last you a long time. Take your time to wash your hair before starting.
2. Don't be in a hurry to get it done. Be patient and carefully install each lock extension in place. Slow and steady wins.
3. If you've tried it on your own, you've seen videos and gotten all the tools and accessories needed but still can't figure it out, get help from a professional stylist. Don't worry, you did your best!
4. Maintenance is necessary for your lock extensions to keep looking clean and fresh. Moisturize regularly, use your hair sprays, and oil your scalp when it feels dry. Relock your extensions with a latch hook or crochet hook to give it a firm shape and always wear your satin scarf before bed to maintain shine.

Conclusion

Once you figure out the best ways to use lock extension tools and accessories, your technique takes a new turn.

Don't feel worried if you're still not a pro at installing lock extensions, remember that practice makes perfect. With the right amount of practice using these lock extension tools and accessories we've talked about, you should be a pro in no time!