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Refreshing your Locs without Gel

Keep your roots tight, your length soft, and your locs healthy—without the buildup.

Let’s be real—sometimes your locs just need a quick refresh. But reaching for that gel every time? It’s a trap. Gels can leave buildup, flake, and weigh your locs down. So how do you get a clean, put-together look without the crunch?

Here’s how to keep your locs looking fresh and feeling clean—no gel required.


WHY IT MATTERS

Gels might hold for a minute, but over time, they can cause:


  • Buildup at the roots

  • Flaking along your hairline

  • Dryness and breakage from hardening agents


Refreshing your locs without gel helps keep your strands soft, your scalp healthy, and your retwist schedule on point.

Customer Testimonial

Monica T., 8-year loc journey

“I used to use gel every week and my roots always felt heavy. Now I just use Nae Nae’s Hair Boost Serum and a little water, and my locs look way neater—no flakes, no buildup.”


YOUR REFRESH ROUTINE


🧴 1. Mist with a Light Moisturizer

Start with a water-based refresher spray. Hydration is key.

Mix aloe vera juice + distilled water + a few drops of lavender or tea tree oil.

(Or use Nae Nae’s Hydration Mist if you prefer ready-made.)

Spritz your roots and the length of your locs. Don’t soak—just lightly dampen.


💆🏾‍♀️ 2. Scalp Massage with a Lightweight Serum

After misting, use a small amount of Hair Boost Serum (not the salve) on your fingertips. Massage into your scalp to stimulate growth and refresh your roots. It helps tame frizz and promote circulation without buildup.


🪮 3. Finger Retwist or Palm Roll

For loose roots or frizz, try a quick finger retwist using just the serum and water. If you prefer palm rolling, dampen the loc slightly, apply a drop of serum, and roll it tight with your palms.

🎀 4. Lay the Edges with a Scarf, Not Gel

Skip edge control and instead tie a satin scarf around your edges for 15–20 minutes after refreshing. It helps lay frizz naturally and hold your style with no flaking.

🌬 5. Air Dry or Use a Cool Dryer Setting

Let your hair air dry or use a cool blow-dryer to lock in the shape without heat damage or frizz.

Real Question from a Subscriber

Q: Do I need to retwist every time I refresh?

A: Not at all. A quick mist and scalp massage can go a long way in making your locs feel clean and cared for. Retwist only when needed.


Q: Will this routine work if I workout regularly?

A: Yes! Sweat can dry your scalp, so a light mist and scalp serum after workouts will keep things fresh between full washes.


EXPERT TIP

Avoid oil-heavy products during your refresh. Your locs need moisture more than oil. If you’re refreshing multiple times a week, stick to water-based products and save oils or butters for wash day or retwisting.


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