If you’ve spent any time exploring textured hair care, you’ve likely come across the LOC or LCO method. Loved for its simplicity and results, this layering technique is designed to help your hair stay hydrated for longer, but understanding why it works is just as important as knowing how to do it!
At ODARA, we believe great hair care starts with education. Let’s break down what the LOC and LCO methods are, the science behind them, and how to choose the right one for your hair.
What Is the LOC (or LCO) Method?
The LOC method stands for:
- L – Liquid
- O – Oil
- C – Cream
The LCO method simply switches the last two steps:
- L – Liquid
- C – Cream
- O – Oil
Both methods are designed to hydrate the hair and then seal that moisture in, helping to reduce dryness, breakage, and frizz, common concerns for textured hair.
The key difference lies in how heavy or light the final result feels, which depends on your hair’s porosity and density.
The Science Behind the Method
Hair hydration isn’t just about adding moisture, it’s about keeping it there.
1. Hair Needs Water First
Hair strands are made primarily of keratin, a protein that needs water to remain flexible and resilient. Without water, hair becomes dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. This is why the Liquid step always comes first.
Liquid can be:
- Water
- A water-based leave-in conditioner
- A hydrating spray
2. Oils Don’t Moisturise They Seal
Oils don’t add moisture on their own. Instead, they create a barrier that slows down water loss by reducing evaporation. This is especially helpful for hair that loses moisture quickly.
Lighter oils penetrate the hair shaft more easily, while heavier oils tend to sit on the surface and seal.
ODARA Tip:
- LOC works best with heavier oils to deeply seal moisture before finishing with a cream.
- LCO works best with lighter oils as the final step to lock in hydration without weighing hair down.
3. Creams Combine Hydration and Softness
Creams usually contain:
- Water (hydration)
- Oils or butters (sealing)
- Emollients (softness and slip)
They help smooth the hair cuticle, improve manageability, and enhance curl definition.
The LOC/LCO method works because it layers products in a way that supports the hair’s natural structure, rather than fighting it.
How to Do the LOC Method (Best with Heavier Oils)
The LOC method is ideal for hair that:
- Feels dry often
- Has higher porosity
- Thick, coarse hair types
- Absorbs moisture quickly but loses it just as fast
Step 1: Liquid
Start on freshly washed hair or lightly damp hair.
- Use water or a water-based leave-in conditioner
- Apply evenly, section by section
ODARA Tip: Hair should feel hydrated, not dripping wet
Step 2: Oil
Apply a heavier oil to seal in the moisture.
- Focus on mid-lengths and ends
- Use sparingly, a little goes a long way
Step 3: Cream
Finish with a moisturising cream or butter.
- Smooth over the hair to lock everything in
- This step adds softness, definition, and long-lasting moisture
How to Do the LCO Method (Best with Lighter Oils)
The LCO method works well for hair that:
- Easily weighed down
- Has lower porosity
- Fine/ Medium hair types
- Struggles with buildup
Step 1: Liquid
Just like LOC, start with water or a leave-in conditioner.
Step 2: Cream
Apply your moisturising cream next.
- This delivers hydration and softness without heaviness
- Ideal for finer textures
Step 3: Oil
Seal everything in with a lighter oil as the final step.
- This helps prevent moisture loss without over-coating the hair
LOC vs LCO: Which One Should You Choose?
There’s no universal rule, the best method is the one your hair responds to.
- If your hair feels dry shortly after styling, try LOC
- If your hair feels coated, greasy, or weighed down, try LCO
You can also:
- Use LOC in colder months
- Switch to LCO in warmer weather
- Adjust oils and creams depending on your style
Hair care is seasonal, personal, and ever-evolving!
Shop the ODARA LOC & LCO collection Here.
