L.C.O - Liquid, Cream, Oil Method

Tuesday, November 26, 2013


As you may or may not know, L.C.O Method is the reversed order of the L.O.C Method. So, instead of the cream sealing the oil in, the oil is sealing in the cream when using the L.C.O Method. Some prefer this method over the L.O.C Method as they state their hair is much softer and retains more moisture. I haven't tried this method as yet but I'm interested in comparing the two to see how it responds to my relaxed hair. 

Liquid is the ultimate moisturizer. It will automatically hydrate the hair once applied. The thick cream acts as a sealant that locks in the liquid/leave-in, thus ensuring no moisture is lost. It's best to use a water based cream moisturizer for this process. This layering effect allows the hair to retain high moisture levels. By using an oil as the last step, you are ensuring that all moisture remains in the hair shaft. On the contrary, with the L.O.C Method, applying the oil before the cream could potentially be locking out all moisture benefits from the cream, as it is the last step. Depending on your hair, both methods can be extremely beneficial to those who exhibit struggles to maintain moisturized hair.

Easy Step-by-Step Instructions:
  1. Apply your water based leave-in conditioner or water based moisturizer (in spray form) to your hair in sections.
  2. Take your moisturizing cream or butter and apply it to the hair in sections. Seal in the moisture.
  3. Apply a thin layer of oil to each section of the hair to lock in the moisture. Focus on your ends.
The L.O.C Method and L.C.O Method work well to ensure that the hair remains moisturized for long periods of time. Depending on your hair type, either method could work for you. As I mentioned before, those with dryness issues, would benefit and should try this technique in their regimen.

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16 comments

  1. I've been using the LCO method since the beginning of my hair journey in 2010. It has worked on my relaxed, transitioning and now completely natural hair. U should def give it a try. I prefer the LCO to the LOC method just because it makes my hair softer and it just overall makes more sense to me lol. Let me know how u like it! Hhj

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    1. I completely agree with you. I've tried both methods and honestly the LCO Method is my fav. It leaves my hair oh so soft and manageable. I'm really upset with myself for not trying it sooner.

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  2. Thank you for validating what I have been thinking. The oil should be applied as the last step to seal.

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    1. Yessss! The oil should be the last step to lock in the moisture. That's the way I see it. It works much better this way too :)

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  3. I have noticed is that when I do a great deep conditioning treatment, regardless of how ---LCO/LOC--- or what I moisturize my hair with during the week, it stays super soft and moist.

    KLP | SavingOurStrands

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  4. i tried the LOC method and it didnt work with my natural hair. I felt like the the cream wasnt penetrating my hair. Now i just stick with the L.C.O method

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    1. I think it's because the oil is locking it out. LCO method makes much more sense. I just love it.

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  5. Will give this a try either the LCO/LOC, how does one know if a product such as moisturizer, leave-in or cream is Water based dont get is it going to be in liquid form or need broad explanation pls

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    1. Great question! If the first ingredient is water, then it's a water based moisturizer. For the LCO/LOC Method, it's best to use a liquid type moisturizer( thin consistency) or leave-in, after use a Creme moisturizer then seal with an oil.

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  6. I have tried the LOC method and then the LCO method, and I prefer the LCO. My hair felt hard with the first method, but this week I tried the LCO method on Monday, and my hair is still moisturized! I will definitely keep using this method to get back to APL by this spring:).

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  7. LCO is the best especially after I shampoo I do not need to use heat and It keep my ends straight I have not used heat In six months using this method. LCO and wrap overnight or for a few hours I use Siken Child c moisturizer cream from Sallys

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  8. Can I use my she's butter mix in the LCO method? What would it be the cream or the oil??

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  9. Hi... I'm just stumbling upon your blog, and am interested in this method for my Ethiopian daughters, who all have natural hair with very different textures. How often do you complete this process? Any recommendations for products to use? Thanks for your help!

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  10. LCO makes more sense but from what I read of the LOC method... the 'C' is for a cream/butter to act as an extra sealant, eg. shea butter, rather than as an additional moisturiser. I think LOC may be better for highly porous hair that need extra help retaining moisture.

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