Thinking of Combining my D.I.Y Microlocs...| Hair Update

[@JourneyWithAjah]

This is a decision I could support. I love how many locs you have now, but I think you would find it easier to do your own hair if you had less. They also might loc faster. To still have that look you're gong for, I'd probably only combine 2 at a time, then you'd go down to 322 locs which is less than what I have. Using your edges to see the size isn't a great idea because everyone's edges are a little more sparse than the rest of their head.

[@Merikara2]

I agree with this. If you combine them in two's you'll still have the same basic look and a lot less retightening work. But if you go into 3's and/or 4's then over time your locks will be quite a bit bigger as they grow out.

[@PINKRIOT]

For the look you’re going for I would say start with combing 2 at a time cause you gotta keep in mind that your locs are going to swell up over time and what you’re seeing now is not the final look. If after a while you want them bigger you can combine them again

[@TyKaraAnn]

Thank you ❤️

[@suttyra12]

I think not seeing a difference in combining two locs is a good thing. That means if you combine them by two, it won't be such a drastic change. So you maintain basically the same look with half the work, unless thats not the look you're going for. i think your hair is beautiful.

[@TyKaraAnn]

I didn't even think of it that way! Thank you!

[@royalgems5185]

Another good point!

[@TahtahmesDiary]

Don't blame you honey! I have almost 200 and I find it perfect for retwisting myself, but can't imagine having as many as you (as beautiful as yours look). Keep enjoying your hair journey, whatever steps necessary!

[@TyKaraAnn]

Tahtahme's Diary Thank you🥺😇

[@mks636]

Your locs over time will naturally swell up and get bigger as they mature, even though the size of your part stays the same , so as you join your locs keep that in mind.

[@karleo82]

Very true!

[@raineynight]

I would braid or twist several sections together, shampoo it, watch what it does for a few days or a week, and then decide.

[@myiawilliams5431]

Your hair is so beautiful TyKara. The combination of 3 looks nice! Also, don't feel bad for deciding to make a change. We appreciate you sharing your journey with us, but you are by no means bound to keep your hair for us, or for anyone! make yourself feel happy and beautiful. Keep that lovely shining light you have.

[@myiawilliams5431]

But giving your locs a fighting chance is a good idea too! They gone be sooooo cute!

[@me2770]

@@myiawilliams5431 Yes, I love the look of 3 too.

[@lydiajonas9534]

it's cute until you think about that retight lol

[@TyKaraAnn]

Lydia Jonas 😂

[@royalgems5185]

Exactly

[@TyKaraAnn]

HAPPY EASTER🤗

[@beattysisters2676]

The look of Your locs are 100 for real! Love love love love. So unique vs other microlocs..

[@TyKaraAnn]

Beatty Sisters Thank you !

[@nikiajohnson5800]

So yeah... For the past 3 days, I did a thing. I did my own self retie. I have 509 locs. When I tell you that it was an overrated experience, It WAS. I can't wait until outside opens again 😩. I haven't gotten to the point of wanting to combine yet, but this video has Def put it in the back of my mind now. I think you will rock it with any decision that you make 😊

[@TyKaraAnn]

Thanks 😊

[@shajdm]

Lavenia combined her sister locks (480 -> 150 or something) and they look traditional. You probably don't want to combine more than 2 for micro locks. Your locks still might expand. My loctition told me that my locks will end up around the size of the part

[@tonimony1jay837]

you seemed disappointed that the combined lock looked the same but if you're happy with the appearance and combining 2 at a time gives you half as much interlocking it's probably a no-brainer. since combining 2 gives you half as much work with the same look, it's probably a good idea. I have around 540 locs and some of them are infuriatingly tiny when I'm interlocking x

[@marlab5203]

Completely understand- I have 360ish locs and that is plenty for me to maintain myself. Mine are tinier in the nape area and the front and then larger everywhere else. Your hair is beautiful, and you’ll figure out that perfect size for you. Thank you for sharing your journey I have enjoyed it along the way. Look forward to what you decide to do!

[@DC-tv9fj]

I recommend what others have already suggested. 2 strand twist 2 at a time to go down to 322 and keep interlocking your roots. They will continue to be gorgeous no matter what you decide. ☺

[@IAmKimmyM]

Leave your edges small. Combine the locs in the middle top, middle middle and middle back of your hair. This way you’ll end up having a bit over 400 locs. I recommend that you combine two locs each, not three or four. Maintain your microlocs status. Your hair will gain volume overtime so combining locs won’t be compromising too much. No dyes. You will damage your locs.

[@sammalvs]

I've had the problem of my microlocs being too small and not locking because there's not enough hair in the loc, so i combined my locs so it can lock and there's no regrets at all

[@tarapickedthepeppers1887]

I recently loc’d back in October with the standard size. Love it, especially when it frizzes up! But I would make the middle big and leave the edges little. Idk I think 2-3 combined would be a good size. Making retwist a little easier.

[@jandyMDutchak]

I Love your hair. It's thanks to you that I finally DIY microloc'ed my hair. I even sent you a pic on IG. I'm now on my way to 2 months. But I have always thought that yours are very small, and that I couldn't do this size, so I totally agree with you combining them. I would say maybe three locs, because you still get the small locs looks and it will be down to about 400 and something since some of them are already the size of three. But, it's totally a personal decision, so I understand and support whatever you decide

[@SisterlockedPrincess]

Hi TyKara! Your locs are absolutely beautiful, but I can definitely see how combining them would be advantageous for a self-maintainer! Especially with locs as small as yours are now, it would be too easy to accidentally combine them, because they are so close together. I liked the size when you braided 3 locs together. I think the 4 was a bit big. But whatever you decide, I’m here for it! I will stay tuned to see what you decide!

[@TyKaraAnn]

Thank you!

[@SimoneBailey]

TyKara I love your locs. #1 hair crush. I finished my 2nd set of microlocs last week and I'm loving it. I filmed the process, but that editing is like retie time, I just keep putting it off. I would say combine 2, 3 tops. No need to rush into a decision, test out each size and go from there. Hugs.

[@TyKaraAnn]

Thank you!

[@mylocs792]

I agree with you! Wait until your hair is fully locked before you combine them because they will continue to thicken up! Your hair is FIRE and unique! On the other hand, it’s your hair and your decision!!

[@ShanishaDBW]

I combined my daughters locs she had 492 and once we combined 4-3-2 depending on the section of her hair. In the center of was 2 around the edges it was 4 and between that it was 3. We liked it until it swelled so we're starting over with larger micro locs. The number we're going for is 2-250 no more.

[@LitcheTheArsm]

I think if we dread the maintenance it could be a sign to change things up n simplify it?

[@melaninstrength1853]

I have 350 locs. And I can do them my self. I have super dense and thick hair too but thats why I chose to do them around the 350-400 mark. I think mine will come out around the same size at chantel. I would say combine 2 together and maybe 3 in the super tiny areas. 2 of yours combined is a good start for the front ones and maybe 3 in the middle area

[@laurenjames6630]

I had micro locs but ended up joining two or three together. Best decision I ever made. Start from the back and see how you feel with just the bottom row done. Leave it a few months and go from there

[@kitten007ccts]

I totally support whatever decision you come to with your hair. When combining though just remember that they'll still swell up a little more after you combine them. So I'd say maybe go a little bit smaller than the size you'd want them to end up. Other than that, do you gurl. 👍💖

[@crafty_stuff7]

Girl I am only 5 months locked with 361 locs. But I have already been thinking about combining. I love them but my last retie took me 12 hours. I want to give it time though. If I do combine i will do 2 locs, then double if I want them bigger. It's a hard decision because I have wanted microlocks for years and I want to see how they turn out. Maybe try that hair colour wax for colour to see how it will look. Definitely don't feel guilty you are just sharing your journey.

[@Natilyh]

Self maintenance on locs your size is a lot so I get you wanting to combine them. Do what works for you.

[@TyKaraAnn]

thanks for your support!

[@Ifeyinwa]

I love your hair as is but I can imagine it’s a lot of work to maintain. I don’t know if you should combine 4 locs though bc won’t they thicken up once they mature? I’d say combine 3 max:)

[@icandy2uonlii]

go for it! I finished interlocking mine the other day and I combined some as well. I used the front of my hair smaller and combined most of them in the back and the middle. Like you I maintain my own hair and you like you said it just makes it easier!

[@Dandreatoyou]

You should do it if you feel it's what you truly want! I completely understand. I have 320ish microlocs and it's perfect for me to retighten. Your hair will be beautiful either way ❤.

[@kinneypagge]

You seem like you want it and you gotta live for yourself. We show up for the hair but we stay for you. I appreciate you sharing this because I have been considering getting sisterlocs and have been trying to figure out how little is too little for my abilities and time restraints and determination. This def helps put that into perspective.

[@abinaisrael7634]

Yes 4 or 3 looks great, go for it!! You can handle the volume loss, but you look great either way.

[@TyKaraAnn]

Ok thanks!

[@mschris014]

The inspiration picture was 🔥🔥🔥. I think you'd be happy after combining. It doesn't serve you to be worried about leaving the micro loc community. Changing your mind to get what you want is the beauty of the process. Color treating your hair is another story...

[@mishaytv]

You have very curly hair like mine. Thicker at the bottom is normal for women who start their locs with long hair and have curly hair. Don't be worried. Once your hair is mature and you have a trim you won't even notice that much. Your skinniest locs will take the longest to loc because there are not many strands for it to tangle with. I have about 590 sisterlocks, I'm two years in and I started with 16 inches of hair. My skinniest locs are still not closed on the ends whereas the slightly bigger ones already have. Either way you go, you will have small locs and will get to enjoy the no detangle life. Until you are sure just hang in there because when it is time you will know.

[@TyKaraAnn]

The Stovers Thanks 😊

[@sojournia1717]

Girl you might ass well leave it alone and just know that you're self re-tightening will take at least 2 weeks hahahaha

[@tlovespeaksss]

I wonder what’s in the air that’s making us want to combine lol, for me it’s maintenance I’m over it lol !

[@TyKaraAnn]

tlovespeaksss yesss

[@lilyraimey3499]

tlovespeaksss giiiirl, quarantine-madness is going around where everyone’s making drastic changes to their hair. Bleaching, combing out, CUTTING, lawd. Combining is the tamest.

[@leeceyleece2406]

tlovespeaksss There’s definitely something in the air and I think lockdown is a big part of it. I don’t self maintain but if I did I’d probably consider combining as I have near to 600 locs. I love slim Sisterlocs though so can’t imagine I’d do it lightly. I’ll keep self retightening until this is all over and then appreciate my consultant more than I did even before 🤣

[@TrollownsGoblin]

tlovespeaksss on the other hand I want to comb out my traditional locs and get micro locs 😂

[@MJ_Solo]

Maintenance is the only thing that's stopped me from taking the plunge and doing it in the first place

[@AlexisShaniceYT]

Since I put my locs in Dec of last year, I've been combining them more and more every 3-4 weeks. 😂 I originally started with 165, as of today, 4months later, I now have 88. But I plan to combine a few more next wash. I wanted small locs for the aesthetic, but I think medium-large locs fit not only my look, but my lifestyle much much better.

[@TyKaraAnn]

Alexis Shanice YT I completely understand this!

[@MJ_Solo]

The thought of re-tie and the fact that I can't figure out if I would look best in tiny locks or traditional locs, is the only thing keeping me from taking the plunge

[@AlexisShaniceYT]

@@MJ_Solo I can understand that. May I suggest trying faux locs? Try them small, and then get a bigger size and see which you prefer. If that's not an option (I heard that can be expensive and it's a long process), do it with small, and then large, twists. Other than that, I would suggest doing what I did. Put small ones in because it's much easier to combine and go bigger, than to have large locs and go smaller.

[@MJ_Solo]

@@AlexisShaniceYT Thank you, I love the idea of starting small, though I get SO amny compliments when I wear box braids, I wonder if locs that size would suit me as well. I'll try what you did I think!

[@AlexisShaniceYT]

@@MJ_Solo 🖤

[@teejalanae389]

I think you should combine. I think you like more of a traditional loc look but small on top of not having to take forever with retightning. Plus a little bigger makes them less fragile.

[@kellya3162]

2-3 looks good! I say try it, worse case scenario is you upbraid them. 2-3 will still give you a similar look. 4 will be more of the traditional locs look. I'm excited for you. Do what makes you feel good and makes sense for you. We will still support you!

[@TyKaraAnn]

Thanks

[@AyshaScottTV]

I started off with around the same amount of locks as yours but I have since reduced the amount and glad I made the decision. My hair still has fullness and I find that the locking process has speeded up. Look forward to seeing what decision you make.

[@lindahunt3641]

Just leave it alone looks good.

[@royalgems5185]

lol

[@royalgems5185]

All that haaaiir is so cute

[@str0wb3rry9irl]

I think combining by half is a good idea and will get you to the size you want once they mature. I have 384 locs that I maintain myself. I retighten by interlocking. It takes one day. I’ve done in three times so far. Established my locs in November.

[@diamondboykin6982]

I just got interlocks with 242 locks and I love the size. I have high density thick hair. I love your hair if you do combine do the 3 lock combination it was a nice size /look for you. The 4 lock combination might/would be too big. You are the reason I got interlocks being following you for a while.

[@TyKaraAnn]

thank you!

[@AyanaOLisha]

I think either combining 2 or 3 would be best for you so you will still have that small look you like. Your locs are gorgeous so either way I think that they will look good!

[@OGKiya]

so happy you made this vid. i been combining my locks but just at the root and don’t regret it at all!

[@beingmichelleg]

Please don't ever hesitate to do what's best for you because of subscribers. We are here to watch, get inspiration and learn not dictate or keep you chained to style that isn't meeting your needs anymore. I think combining 2 to start will help you see it better. With your hair I don't believe you will have issue losing volume after locs settle and start to swell.

[@TyKaraAnn]

Thank you 😊

[@mariahmorgan9284]

I personally love the way it looks. You can’t tell you have micro locs but you do, it’s like the best of both worlds lol

[@TyKaraAnn]

Thanks 😊

[@Warrior.bride_]

They always get thicker over time so don’t combine to many together if you still want them small.

[@TyKaraAnn]

I will be sure to remember that!

[@Rooted_Locs]

It took me 3 weeks to self retie 430 something locks... After that I was like, no ma'am... I've combined them and have 234...it takes me 12 hrs to retie now. I love them!!!

[@stephanie-joe]

I ended up combining mine by the first retwist 😂

[@Bindi_Marc]

😂😂😂

[@KimarieVIP]

I like your combined look. Be aware that a big base=potential for big/thick locs.

[@mocollata]

I'm almost four months in and you were one of my inspirations but once I started my installation my arms got tired lol so I ended up with around 380 locs. It still looks similar to when I would do a wash n go shingle method so I'm all for combining them if the amount is becoming a burden. It'll be beautiful regardless.

[@TatianaVictoria]

I just did my microlocs and I’ll be uploading videos about it soon. You definitely inspired me to get micro locs! I have less density than you so I have 456 total! I feel like you should do what you want to your hair since you’re the one who’s taking care of it!! I loveeee her locs too!

[@TyKaraAnn]

Tatiana Victoria Thanks 😊

[@user-rb4gq2rx8n]

I love the size of your locs. I’m growing out my hair and plan on locing

[@jimyahcarr9015]

I think you should be able to do whatever you want with your hair without worrying about other people! I will support you regardless!

[@amberchenevert4822]

I support you! I’ve been watching since you started your journey and I have/had smaller locs. I just two strand twisted mine to combine them, I’m loving it so far and much faster to retighten

[@victoriacreates8362]

Girl it’s YOUR hair ! Do whatever you need to make YOUR hair journey work for you. Especially with re-tightening. If you’re not happy having to do all 600 Locs maybe you’d feel better doing 300-400! I support 100 and I say Go for it 😆

[@ettajames3494]

I love doing wash and go's on my micro twists!

[@jadebaynes323]

How do u do that

[@ettajames3494]

@@jadebaynes323 After I micro twist (not loc) I wet my hair in shower or with spray bottle and then add gel. I have 4a hair type.

[@dom7357]

Wow this is right on time! I just combined half of my locs last night. I went from micro locs to chucky locs. I can't wait to see how the mature for the both of us💕

[@ceellebee]

In hopes to do your hair yourself. I support you combining your locs!

[@TyKaraAnn]

Thank ya

[@MiNNi0La]

It does look bigger, and it looks stronger to me when you combine them. Truth be told, I watched your journey for months and I loved your curls and your volume, but after going to my loctician and doing my own research, I've come to the conclusion that tiny locs tend to be more fragile, and ultimately, a lot of people end up combining when they have so many.

[@feliciamonet]

Girlfriend, do what's right for you boo! It's your hair. Express yourself the way you want with it! You are beautiful either way!

[@walking-in-heals]

I think they look great combined. Plus 600+ locs are a lot to maintain.

[@DutchessSarahJ]

2 at a time. A little over 300 is much, much more manageable and still very micro/small. 💕

[@earljoi14]

Combine 2. Give it a few months of washing and retightening to see what you think. Less loss of volume but 1/2 the retightening time. If they are still too small you can always combing them again.

[@ebonyessence8]

I think because you used locs around your edges you have to consider our hair density varies throughout our heads, you may have to base the number of locs you combine on your hair density in each section if that makes sense. Your hair is so pretty. My first time watching❣

[@angie101972]

If you do. Try to follow your current grid. That way your locs aren’t off on how they lay. I’d start with just doing 2 at a time.

[@jasminebanks3124]

I love the combination of three for you it's small but not to small

[@naturalcurls4life576]

You have to do what's best for you. You will still have microlocs. I love micro/sisterlocks but I couldn't imagine maintaining 4, 5, 6 hundred locs or more. You are the one who will eventually be retightening your locs, so decide for you. They will be pretty eirher way.

[@TyKaraAnn]

Thank you for your support!

[@Brattybaby333]

Combining wouldn't be such a bad idea. I have about 350+ locs and they still have a similar look. I love your videos, I hope you are doing well ❤️

[@Reeces_Allure]

You’re hair is so cute... however you want to look at the base of the lock that’s how big it will get...

[@Whistlesonthewind]

Go smaller than the size you want your matured loc’s to have. They swell over time.

[@Goosethelabrador]

Don’t feel guilty you got every right change!! it’s your hair!

[@icandy2uonlii]

I think you should combine 4 to 5 - I love it!

[@SuperKiona123]

I also just combined my locs 😂. I dont have nearly as much as you but I wanted to thicken up my locs a little bit. I love my microlocs but I actually am enjoying the slightly thicker locs. We'll see how they thicken up as time goes on, if I really like them I will probably do more. The thinner locs are taking the longest to loc while the thicker ones are closing up and locking pretty fast. All my skinny ones are still curly and open at the ends tho. I also just twisted mines together, I'm also thinking about switching to twisting or maybe the 2 point rotation to allow my hair the space to swell up even thicker. I love the curly look, but I'm ready for sumn thicker and fuller w out the intense exercise to retie

[@zirie3291]

nah, this is your hair, it doesn't matter what other people think. Those who really support you will support you through this. Do you sis

[@leeceyleece2406]

Your locs are glorious but I can imagine they are a whole heap of work, especially as your hair looks to be fairly soft too. Whatever you do your mane will be beautiful, do what works for you and best wishes xx

[@itsBANKSlik007]

It’s definitely the quarantine! I split my locs up to try to have more volume.

[@AllTHingsGLam0r0us]

I have 73 locs and that's after combining them 2 separate times. When I get to the center of my head during a retwist I always ask myself whhhyyyyyy I don't just have 3 huge locs so I can be done quick!😂😂.. I wanted med locs, so after a few tries I was finally happy with my size,I'll be 2yrs loced in Dec..Girl I get anxiety just looking at the amount you have,lol..I LOVE micro and sister locs but wouldn't be able to get through the retwist stage.. they are beautiful though!

[@yltnaillirb4438]

😂😂😂

[@hikama.3318]

600+ locks! Yeah I would definitely combine😰

[@nikkijo9801]

I will still be here watching your vids lol.. I vote 4.. if you haven’t re tighten your hair then I think you already know your commitment level lol.. unless you willing to pay for someone to do it for you... but you kinda have to make them just a bit bigger I believe you’ll love it the same and can maintain it yourself.

[@TyKaraAnn]

thank you!

[@chellec4401]

If you want to combine your locs go for it. To me it's about Independence. It will slightly change your look. But four is the number that will make the biggest change. I'm no expert but I think by combining them you may give them the fighting chance they need. I think the texture of your hair makes it difficult for your hair to loc with two strand twist. They are gorgeous as is though so...

[@lorriematthews3099]

Don’t decide yet! Keep thinking about it until you are sure about it!

[@Danajanene]

Happy Easter. I love your hair. This is a really big decision...good luck with whatever you decide.

[@TyKaraAnn]

Thank you

[@NathanXSavage]

Hair looked cute before and after! Done a great job!

[@TyKaraAnn]

Thank you so much 😀

[@shernaeh719]

I think if you combine just two together you’d still be able to keep your overall look/ volume and 300 something micro locs is absolutely doable. They’ll swell up over time... buuuut if you want them to look more like that girl’s locs, then you’d combine like 4ish each. Just depends on if you want your current look and just want to make retightenings easy OR if you want a new look completely... micro vs traditional locs. Support you either way 🙌🏾

[@TyKaraAnn]

Thank you 🙏🏾

[@portialujabe3121]

Wow interesting... Everyone is combining it scares me 😂 it's like the right of passage... But whatever you do, I'm sure your locs will be stunning - your hair is gorgeous x

[@TyKaraAnn]

Thanks 😊

[@WholeHeartily]

What if you just strategically combine some of your locs? like, if you have over 600 now, you could bring it down to 580 or something for sure with some of the tiny ones or ones on the inside... since you love the aesthetic, but not the maintenance process. You could potentially cut off a few hours

[@lisettebrown8317]

If you combine I'd say do 2 at a time. If you find you wanna combine more, you can. Its easier to start off with a smaller amt and increase than to split locks. I have combined some of my microlocs here and there that were too thin and appeared weak. Do what's best for you. In the end you or your mom will have.to maintain it.

[@TyKaraAnn]

Thanks 😊

[@fegrace_1]

I love your microlocs the way they are. I can see you combining two but the four doesn’t have the uniqueness of your current size/pattern. Also, can understand that you want to decrease your re-twist/tightening time but as for your current loc size won’t they swell and get bigger so even the three or four locks together will get even bigger. With that said, I can see your hair looking like Cipriana & TK Quann when your hair is gets even longer. I don’t know if they still do this but apparently they did micro two-strand twist to their hair which they have a massive amount of hair. So as long as your happy that is most important for the end of the day!

[@abeyoutifuljourneyahead]

Do what makes you happy. I love your hair.

[@perfectkarma1209]

I wouldn't do it! They look so gorgeous and unique. I would learn how to retighten them yourself. It may take time to do it, but the better you get at it the faster the reties will go. Locs do swell over time you might not like the thickness later.

[@yanmck-sam5472]

Happy Easter. I think the first two you did definitely looked bigger

[@Arnellwilson]

I say do four still small but looks good and more manageable I’m combining mine as well!! 💚

[@TyKaraAnn]

❤️

[@kelseydaley341]

Love the sister locs

[@aVAness]

I just combined mine and did a video on it as well if you want to see others who had tiny locs and combined! Thanks for sharing!

[@daphneerose8026]

Your locs are TINY! I'm just afraid for the base of your locs..especially when they start growing longer and having weight. I would combine a few, combine 3. They will swell and you will still have volume. #sisterlocked

[@SeptemberBluez]

I started my braid locs I have maybe 350-400 And I did them a size I know I can manage since I will be doing them myself... I love your locs and I think if you combine them you should twist them not braid (maybe twist 3-4 together🤗)