Wicks locs are fast becoming one of the hottest hair trends of 2025 and it’s easy to see why. These cylindrical locs look bold and consistent, unlike freeform locs and instant locs that can look somewhat haphazard. They’re also incredibly versatile. They can be short, long, thick, or thin, and styled in a variety of ways.
As the popularity of wicks grows, business owners and entrepreneurs in the hair styling space can benefit from knowing exactly what this hairstyle is and how to provide clientele with wicks services. This guide will cover everything you need to know about wicks hair including what it is, the tools you need to create it, and the potential it has to grow your business.
Table of Contents
What are wicks locs?
Getting to know your target market
Training and skills needed to offer wicks services
Tools and products for creating wicks hair
Expanding your services and carving out a niche
Ensuring your customers are satisfied and return
What are wicks locs?
Wicks are distinctive locs that are consistent in shape from the top of the head to the bottom of each loc. They can be different lengths, like short and sticking up straight, or long and flowing down the shoulders and back. The locs are made by twisting the hair and then rolling it to create a column-like shape. While many traditional dreadlocks made with the freeform method often taper at the bottom, wicks locks have the same width at the bottom as they do at the top. They’re called wicks because they resemble a candle wick.
These unique locs first became popular in Florida, mainly in Black communities. The style gained traction when celebrities and influencers on Instagram and TikTok started adopting the style. With the spread of the wick dreadlocks look on social media, the hairstyle soon became an international sensation, with people from different cultural backgrounds adopting and adapting the style.
Getting to know your target market
The demand for wicks dreads is no longer limited to Florida or even just the United States. People from across North America, Europe, the Caribbean, and even parts of Africa are now seeking out professional stylists who can create the look. In addition, the style is not limited to a particular age group or cultural background. You’ll find people of all ages, genders, and ethnicities rocking wicks hair.
Because wicks are difficult to create at home using DIY methods, most people turn to hairstylists to create the look for them. Business owners can tap into this growing market by educating themselves and staff members about what wick locs are and offering specialized services. This could include wicks installation, maintenance, and removal.
Training and skills needed to offer wicks services
Creating wicks locs is not especially difficult, but it does require some know-how and practice to get them right. To start, it helps to understand which hair types work best with wicks. Thicker, curly hair works well because it offers a substantial base to start building the locs. Finer, straight hair may need to be teased to make it thick enough to begin twisting and rolling.
In addition, many stylists recommend having hair that is at least four to six inches long to create the locs.
There are a few different ways you can create wicks locs. The crochet hook method involves using a thin metal needle with a hook to twist the hair around, then employing a crochet method to weave the hair into evenly shaped locs. You can also combine existing locs into larger wicks locs or go free-form and twist and roll the hair until it’s in the desired shape. Maintenance is also key. Stylists should know how to weave new growth into the locs and re-roll to keep the shape consistent.
Tools and products for creating wicks hair
Businesses that specialize in locs will need a few specialized tools to create wicks hair. Items include a professional hair styling comb with a thin, pointed end for separating sections and rubber bands for holding the locs in place. Stylists who are planning on using the crochet method will need a hooked loc needle. Locs also require moisture to prevent them from frizzing or unrolling. Business owners may want to invest in special hair oil for locs and braids.
Expanding your services and carving out a niche
With the popularity of wicks hair on the rise, more salons, barber shops, and hair stylists are offering wicks services to clientele. To stand out from the competition, it helps to offer a wide array of services and establish a niche for your business. You may want to consider offering thick and thin options and different colors of wick locs. You can also expand to different hair types or create a signature technique that is exclusive to your business. In addition, you could add maintenance, repair, and removal services.
Ensuring your customers are satisfied and return
The goal with any hair styling service is to ensure that customers are happy with the look you provide them. Ideally, you want them to return to your business for further maintenance and any future hairstyling needs. It also helps if your clients recommend your business to others. These are a few ways you can ensure your customers are satisfied and return:
- Educate clients: The more your clients know about their wicks locs, the more empowered they will be about their new look. Be sure to walk them through the steps of how they’re created and give them tips on how to care for their locs. You can also explain that the locs aren’t permanent, but they can be time-consuming to remove.
- Offer follow-up appointments: Some clients may not be aware that wicks locs require maintenance due to hair growth and regular wear and tear. It helps to suggest a maintenance plan and give your clients the opportunity to book a follow-up appointment well in advance.
- Address customer concerns: As you inform your clients about proper care and maintenance, give them the opportunity to voice any concerns they may have. Answer any questions they may have about scalp health, styling options, and products they can use to keep their wicks looking their best.
Conclusion
Wicks hairstyles are seeing a huge surge in popularity that isn’t likely to die down anytime soon. Businesses that want to build on this hype should consider offering customized wicks services. By staying updated on trends and techniques, you can set your business apart from the competition and stay relevant in the ever-changing landscape of trending hairstyles. If you’re interested in expanding your business to include wicks hair services, Alibaba.com offers a wide range of hair products that can help you and your staff create this polished look.
