Comb Coils
Coil & Knot Family
Illustration -- About our illustrations
Comb coils are small, tight coils made by placing the teeth of a fine comb at the root of a section of damp, product-coated hair and rotating the comb down the length. They are worn as a short natural style and are one of the most common ways to start locs.
Distinguishing characteristics
The comb does the coiling, which sets comb coils apart from finger coils (wrapped around a finger) and two-strand twists. On short, coily hair the coils are uniform; as starter locs they loosen and frizz before they begin to lock.
Advantages
Neat, defined coils on short hair and a well-established way to start traditional locs.
Considerations
Coils unravel easily, especially with washing, in the early weeks.
Warning signs
Itching and flaking point to product buildup; switch to lighter products.
Preparation
Short to medium coily hair coils best. Start with clean, damp hair and a holding gel; neat partings decide the pattern if you plan to loc.
Daily Care
Avoid combing or rubbing the coils. A light water spray keeps them from feeling dry.
Night Care
Sleep in a satin bonnet or on a satin pillowcase to protect the coils.
Washing
Wash gently with diluted shampoo and minimal rubbing, especially if they are starter locs; a stocking cap over the hair helps them hold.
Scalp Care
Use light products to avoid flakes.
Refreshing
Re-coil unravelled sections with the comb and a little gel; for starter locs, a loctician can retwist new growth.
Styling tips
Pair with a taper or fade, or plan the parts if the coils are the start of locs.
At a glance
- Looks
- 3 looks
Looks
- Short Comb Coils
- Comb Coil Starter Locs
- Comb Coils with Taper
FAQs
- Are comb coils the same as finger coils?
No. Comb coils are formed by twisting a comb through each section; finger coils are wrapped around a finger. Two-strand twists are a third, different construction.
- Can comb coils start locs?
Yes. Comb coils are a common way to start locs. In the early weeks they loosen, frizz and can unravel with washing before they begin to lock; a loctician can retwist the new growth.