Butterfly Locs Care 101: How to Protect Your Scalp & Prolong Your Style in Lagos

Butterfly locs have taken Lagos by storm—and for good reason. They offer that effortless, bohemian "distressed" look that is both stylish and versatile. Whether you are heading to a wedding in Ikeja or just handling your daily hustle on the Island, they are the perfect protective style to give your natural hair a break.

But let’s be real: the Lagos heat, humidity, and dust can turn your beautiful locs into a frizzy, itchy mess in just a few weeks if you aren't careful.

Many people think "protective style" means "no maintenance," but that is a myth. Neglecting your scalp while in locs can lead to dryness, severe dandruff, and even breakage when you finally take them down.

At Tommag Hair Care, we want you to slay your style and keep your natural hair healthy underneath. Here is your ultimate guide to maintaining butterfly locs in the Nigerian climate.

1. The "Itch" Factor: Why Your Scalp Itches & How to Stop It

The number one complaint with butterfly locs? The Itch.

Because butterfly locs use wrapped synthetic hair, your scalp can get hot and sweaty, especially under the blazing sun. This traps sweat and bacteria against your skin, leading to inflammation and that uncontrollable urge to scratch.

The Fix:

Don’t pat your head—treat it! You need a solution that fights bacteria without ruining your style.

• Use a Targeted Spray: Our [Anti-Dandruff Itchy Scalp Spray] is a lifesaver for this. It is lightweight and fast-absorbing. Spray it directly onto your scalp parts every morning to cool inflammation, fight dandruff-causing fungus, and relieve itching instantly.

• Avoid Heavy Greases: Do not apply thick hair food to your scalp while in locs. It will clog your pores and attract dust, making the itch worse.

2. Cleansing Without the Frizz

Can you wash butterfly locs? Yes, but you have to be careful. If you wash them like loose hair, the distressed wrapping will unravel or get too frizzy.

However, leaving sweat to build up for 4-6 weeks is not an option if you want healthy growth.

The Fix: Scalp Refreshing

Instead of a full shower wash, focus strictly on the scalp.

• Dilute Your Shampoo: Mix a little of our [Herbal Repair Shampoo] with water in a spray bottle. Spray it close to your roots, massage gently with the pads of your fingers (no nails!), and rinse carefully with a handheld shower head or damp cloth.

• Dry Thoroughly: This is critical. Damp locs smell like mildew. Use a blow dryer on the "Cool" setting to ensure your roots are 100% dry.

3. Hydrating Your Real Hair Underneath

Just because your hair is hidden doesn't mean it isn't thirsty. Your natural hair is twisted underneath that synthetic wrapping, and if it dries out, it will become brittle. When you eventually take the locs down, you might notice excessive shedding or breakage.

The Fix:

You need to hydrate the roots.

• Daily Mist: Lightly spritz your roots with a water-based moisturizer or our [Kiddies Hair Mist] (yes, it’s great for adults too because it’s so light!).

• Oil the Scalp: Follow up with the [Strengthening Hair Growth Oil]. The nozzle applicator allows you to get the oil exactly where you need it—on your scalp and new growth—without making the locs greasy.