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Frequently Asked Questions
"Ask for what you want and be prepared to get it."
- Maya Angelou
The art of natural haircare is a complex union of science (tangible) and imagination (intangible). Consequently, selecting appropriate treatments and styles is nearly impossible without an in-person introduction. Factors such as texture, density, length, and overall hair condition cannot be accurately assessed otherwise. Additionally, because receiving a hair service is a personal experience, a consultation allows the client and stylist to connect and establish alignment.
Of course not. We welcome clients across the spectrum of the “returning natural” process. Transition styles are a wonderful way to take the first step.
Chemical treatments such as relaxers do not wear off. Healthy hair grows approximately half an inch per month, producing new growth. However, chemically treated hair must eventually be cut, as it does not revert back to its natural state.
During the transition process, some clients may experience breakage at the line of demarcation, where chemically treated hair meets new growth. This is considered healthy breakage, as the separation occurs at the point of structural difference.
A Wash & Glow is our take on the traditional Wash & Go, because let’s be honest, no one is simply washing and going.
A Wash & Glow can last 7 to 14 days. Longevity depends on factors such as the client’s desired finishing cast (soft, medium, or firm), drying time, and protective measures taken during high humidity activities and sleep.
No. We employ countless, versatile locking techniques across a broad range of textures to initiate the locking process. There is an option for everyone and every curl pattern.
Yes. However, depending on the length of the starter locs, we may recommend reserving shampooing for scheduled maintenance services every 3 to 4 weeks to prevent unraveling.
Due to its dense, solidifying nature when pure and its petrolatum base when processed, beeswax is not ideal for locking hair. Over time, it causes heavy buildup that is nearly impossible to fully remove from mature locs. The same applies to heavy gels and pomades.
Interlocking is a loc maintenance technique in which, following a specific pattern, the loc is interwoven within itself, similar to crocheting, to tighten new growth at the scalp.
Interlocking does not thin locs. However, the inherent tension created by the process results in a more condensed loc, giving the appearance of a slimmer circumference. The density of palm-rolled locs versus interlocked locs can be compared to that of twists versus braids.
Unfortunately, no. This is a common misconception. Consistent, excessive heat produces effects similar to chemical treatments over time. Protein bonds within the hair shaft gradually weaken with repeated heat application, stretching the natural texture and potentially resulting in permanently straightened areas.
Once this occurs, clients must transition those damaged sections back to natural. Fortunately, natural hair offers countless versatile styling options without the need for straightening.
Yes. The trade off is that wet twists typically offer more volume, while dry twists provide more length.
Clients may enjoy extensions for 2 to 3 months, with recommended monthly maintenance services in between.
They should not and they do not at The Way of Life. Proper installation depends on appropriate tension, which is guided by the stylist’s hands and professional judgment.