Nervous About a Sister Loc Install? How to Prepare for Your First Visit

Prep for Sister Locs: clean, dry hair and a clear plan

If you want your install to go smoothly, the best prep is simple. We generally recommend washing your hair 24–48 hours before your appointment, then coming in with hair that’s dry and fully detangled. Skip heavy oils, butters, and thick leave-ins right before your visit. Product buildup makes sectioning harder and can leave hair feeling sticky fast, especially in Memphis heat.

Bring inspiration photos if you have them, but also be ready to answer a few basics so we can match the look to your hair and lifestyle. Tell us:

• Your goal length (be specific, because longer length can change time and price).
• Your parting preference (middle, side, no preference).
• If you’re tender-headed or have a sensitive scalp. We take tension seriously.
• Any hair sensitivities or allergies, especially if you plan to bring your own hair.

Your Sister Loc install, step by step: how the day actually moves

When you arrive, we’ll start with a quick consult so we’re on the same page about the size, the parting, the length, and the overall look. People come to us because we’re quick without giving up neat work, and we keep the space small and welcoming. That matters when you’re about to sit for hours.

1) Sectioning and setup (this is where neat work starts)

We’ll part and section your hair carefully, then start installing the locs in a steady rhythm. The goal is secure work with gentle, consistent tension. If you’re tender-headed, speak up early. We’d rather adjust right away than have you white-knuckling through it.

2) The install itself (4–8+ hours, and sometimes more)

Time depends on your hair density, the size of the locs, and the length you choose. We’ve had braid clients finish in 3.5–4 hours for certain styles, and we’ve also had clients sit longer for extra length. Sister Loc installs are usually on the longer end, so plan your day around it. If you commute in from Germantown, Cordova, Bartlett, or Collierville, morning appointments tend to feel easier, especially in summer when Memphis humidity kicks up.

3) Comfort check-ins (because “tight” isn’t the goal)

We check in as we go. A little scalp sensitivity can happen with any install, but it shouldn’t feel like your head is being pulled back. People regularly tell us their style feels “not too heavy or tight”, and that’s the standard we keep.

“My hair is not tight and I was able to lay on my pillow that night😂.”

one of our long-time clients

After your Sister Loc install: first wash timing, satin protection, and sweat-proof habits

Right after an install, it’s normal for your scalp to feel a little “aware, ” especially around your hairline. That usually settles quickly when tension is right. The biggest thing you can do that night is protect your work. We generally recommend a satin bonnet or scarf (or a satin pillowcase if you’re not a bonnet person) so you wake up looking the same way you left.

For washing, we’ll talk you through timing and what to use based on your install, but the general rule is gentle and light. Heavy products tend to trap sweat and lint, and in Memphis heat that can get uncomfortable fast. Keep it simple, keep it clean, and let your locs settle.

And yes, compliments are common around here. Our braid clients tell us all the time they leave getting noticed, and that same “neat work” effect is what you want with Sister Locs too.

East Memphis Sister Locs: the small details that make first-timers relax

Here’s what our regulars mention again and again: we’re on time, we move fast and neat, and we don’t act like discomfort is just part of the deal. People come back for a second, third, and fourth appointment because the work stays clean and the experience stays respectful.

• Bring a phone charger, water, and something easy to snack on.
• Wear a top that doesn’t pull tight over your head. Button-ups and zip-ups make life easier.
• If you’re bringing kids’ activities or arranging childcare, plan for the full 4–8+ hour window so you’re not stressed mid-install.
• If you’re sensitive to braiding hair, you can bring what you already know works for you. One client did, and it made their appointment smoother.

“ATTENTION: FOR ALL SENSITVE SCALP/TENDER-HEADED INDIVIDUALS, Besties is the place to book your appointment and go for BEAUTIFUL braids!!!”

a recent visitor

Ready for Sister Locs in Memphis? Let’s make the first day feel easy

If you’ve been sitting on the idea of Sister Locs because you don’t know what the day looks like, now you do. Plan enough time, come with clean, dry, product-free hair, and tell us up front if you’re tender-headed or bringing your own hair. We’ll keep you posted during the install, we’ll keep tension in check, and we’ll send you out with clear aftercare so you’re not guessing at home.

Explore more: braiding services and our braid gallery.