Locs: they’re making real waves in the beauty industry.

If you’re interested in tapping into an industry that’s growing everyday, then becoming a loc technician, also known as a loctician, might be a smart choice for you. It’s not just a trend, but the opportunity to build a thriving business.

Believe it or not, the average monthly booked appointment revenue for locs businesses from January to July 2024 was $3,153.66, according to GlossGenius research. That’s some serious incentive to jump on board!

In this post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about how to become a loctician, from where to get your loctician certification to how you should be setting up your business.

What Do Locticians Do?

If you’re new to the industry, you might have lots of questions. Where do locticians work? Do you need a license to be a loctician? And perhaps most importantly, what does a loc technician do in the first place? 

1. Perform Hair Braiding Techniques

A loctician's skills go beyond simple hair maintenance. You'll become a pro at braiding techniques like cornrows, box braids, and Senegalese twists. 

Each style is not only about aesthetics, but also protective care for hair. These techniques serve as the foundation for starting and maintaining locs, making them vital to add to your repertoire.

2. Provide Ongoing Maintenance and Care for Locs 

Locs require regular upkeep, and that's where you, the loctician, shine. You’ll play a pivotal role in making sure your clients’ locs always look healthy and stylish.  

You might have to perform tasks like washing, retwisting, and conditioning to prevent issues like breakage or thinning. A good loctician will also educate his or her clients on proper at-home care.

3. Offer Creative Styling and Design Options for Locs 

Let's face it, everyone loves a bit of glam! Locticians aren’t just about the basics. You get to experiment with styles and designs, transforming locs into works of art. Whether it's intricate updos, adding accessories, or playing with colors, creativity is at the heart of what you do. 

How to Become a Loctician in 5 Steps

Now that you know the basics of what a loctician does, it’s time to think about exactly how to become a loctician. Here’s the breakdown: 

1. Look for Training Programs

Before you can create those jaw-dropping styles, you’ll need to learn the ropes, and you’ll need to start with the basics.

Seek out training programs from established schools or seasoned locticians. These programs offer the foundational knowledge you need, from detailed braiding techniques to understanding hair types. 

Remember, hands-on learning is more valuable than anything else, so look for courses that offer practice on live models.

2. Seek Opportunities to Gain Practical Experience

Once you've got the basics of how to become a loctician down, it's time to get your hands dirty - figuratively speaking! Start by working in a salon to gain real-world experience. 

If a salon gig isn’t available, practice with friends or family willing to be your guinea pigs. This hands-on experience is what will help you hone your skills, build confidence, and understand your clients’ needs.

3. Take a Certification Exam

You've trained, you’ve practiced, and now it’s time to prove your skills. Certification is the next step, and it’s your golden ticket to gaining credibility and trust with clients. Most certification exams require a mix of written and practical assessments. 

Take the time to thoroughly prepare, showcasing not only your technical skills but also your knowledge of hair health and client care.

4. Build Your Portfolio

Your portfolio is essentially your business card in the beauty industry. Capture high-quality photos of your best work to showcase your skills to potential clients. 

A diverse portfolio featuring different styles and techniques will speak volumes about your versatility and creativity. Share your portfolio online and with local salons to expand your reach.

5. Market Yourself 

Now that you're certified, it’s time to get the word out! Use social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to promote your services. Share testimonials from satisfied clients and showcase before-and-after transformations. Create a strong brand for yourself with a catchy business name, an eye-catching logo and slogan, and consistent branding from one platform to the next.

And remember, word-of-mouth remains the most powerful form of advertising, so encourage your happy clients to spread the word about their fabulous locs.

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4 Best Training and Certification Programs for Locticians

First things first, why should you bother getting certified? While some states might not require a loctician license, having one can set you apart from the competition and win the trust of your clients. Having your certification shows that you are well-versed in the science and art of loc styling and are a true expert in the field.

1. Milady Standard Cosmetology Program

The Milady Standard Cosmetology Program is a top choice for aspiring locticians who want a thorough grounding in all aspects of hairdressing. 

Known for its comprehensive curriculum, Milady places a strong focus on textured hair – an essential component for any loctician.

Pros:

• Offers detailed insights into all hair textures.
• Includes step-by-step procedures bolstered by engaging video content.
• Available in both English and Spanish for broader accessibility.

Cons:

• Milady Standard Cosmetology might be overkill if you're only interested in locs, as it covers a wide range of other cosmetology subjects.

2. Pivot Point Academy

Want to become a master at braiding, including locs? Pivot Point Academy offers a specialized program that will equip you with the skills you need to excel.

Pros:

• Hands-on practice in a real salon setting.
• Extensive focus on client communication and business management.
• Interactive classroom learning through their digital platform, Learn About Beauty (LAB).

Cons:

• Requires a time commitment of 12 months, which may be daunting for some.

3. Natural Hair Class

If you're looking for flexibility, the Natural Hair Class Online offers an all-access pass to over 48 online classes, focusing on locs and natural hair. This self-paced program is perfect for those balancing multiple commitments.

Pros:

• Self-paced learning is available 24/7.
• Affordable pricing with a limited-time offer.
• Offers certificates for individual classes.

Cons:

• No in-person training, which might limit hands-on practice.

4. Zamora Natural Hair Academy

Zamora Natural Hair Academy offers a comprehensive program that covers everything from basic loc techniques to advanced styling. With lifetime access to course materials, this program provides ongoing support for your entire loc career.

Pros:

• Lifetime access when you pay in full.
• Covers a broad range of topics including loc care.
• Self-paced with live online classes available.

Cons:

• Supplies are not included, which could be an additional cost.

3 Tips to Boost Your Loctician Career

With your loctician certification in hand, here are a few more tips to help you boost your career as a loctician: 

1. Consider Specializing in a Particular Types of Locs

While it's tempting to be a jack of all trades, specializing in a particular type of loc – whether intricate styles, extensions, or maintenance – can really set you apart. Specialized services often allow for premium pricing and attract a niche clientele who value your expertise.

2. Create a Professional Website or Social Media Profiles

In the digital age, a professional website or vibrant social media profile can be your best marketing tool. Showcase your work, share tutorials, and connect with clients online. 

Consider using GlossGenius’ custom website builder to create a stunning online portfolio with minimal effort. 

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3. Build Relationships with Other Professionals

Building your career isn't just about your skills – it's also about who you know. Take the time to build relationships with other locticians, hair stylists, and beauty professionals to learn, grow, and refer clients to each other. 

A strong network can open doors to collaboration opportunities and valuable advice that will serve you well long into the future.

Start Your Loctician Journey With GlossGenius

With the right training and career strategies, you're well on your way to becoming a successful loctician. 

However, even with your newfound skills as a loctician, managing your new business can be another challenge entirely. That’s where GlossGenius steps in. 

From online booking to marketing and analytics, GlossGenius provides an all-in-one platform to help you run your business smartly. We’ll even help you set goals so you can keep pushing yourself to do better, from one hairstyle to the next.

Ready to take your business up a notch? Sign up for a free trial of GlossGenius today, and take your loctician business to places you never before thought possible. 

FAQ

What makes you a loctician?

A loctician is a hairstylist specializing in the creation and maintenance of locs. Expertise in loc techniques and client education is what distinguishes a loctician from other hairstylists.

Do you need a license to be a loctician in Pennsylvania?

A cosmetology license is required to operate as a loctician in Pennsylvania.

Do I need a license to be a loctician in Florida?

Florida requires a cosmetology license for all hairstylists, including locticians.

Do you need a license to do dreadlocks in California?

In California, a cosmetology license is necessary for providing hairstyling services, including dreadlocks.