Faux Locs
Have you ever wanted to see what you would look like with locs? If so, faux locs could be the perfect style for you. Faux locs are temporary locs created with human or synthetic extension hair. They are for people who want the look of dreadlocks/locs without the long-term commitment. A fun alternative to braids or wearing your natural hair out, they’re perfect for anyone who wants a low maintenance way of switching up their look without damaging their hair. Natural dreadlocks can take months to years to fully mature, while faux locs take just hours to create from start to finish.
Faux locs are a trendy protective style loved by most. Celebrities like Rihanna, Meagan Good, Tyra Banks, and Eva Marcelle have all rocked the carefree, boho hairstyle. Chances are you’ve seen a friend or relative wear faux locs, as they have become quite popular over the past couple of years.
Faux locs which is another term used to refer to fake locs aka locs that aren’t natural/dreadlocks come in many variants such as: distressed bohemian locs, butterfly locs, or soft locs. With each giving you a diverse loc look, not to mention, the array of faux locs colors and different lengths you can choose from. Faux locs are one of the few protective hairstyles that are different from the rest. Unlike braids which look best when they’re freshly done, faux locs are the complete opposite. With faux locs, the longer you keep them installed the more beautiful they tend to look, as they become more natural-looking.
Faux locs can be installed using two methods:
- The braid and wrap method, which involves braiding your natural hair and then wrapping hair extensions around each braid.
- The cornrow and crochet method, which involves braiding your natural hair into cornrows and then crocheting the faux locs onto the cornrows with a latch hook.
While the crochet method is definitely quicker (usually four to five hours to install), the end results aren’t quite as realistic as the wrapping technique, which will give the illusion of real locs coming out of your scalp. So, if you’re willing to put in the time to get faux locs that look super realistic, opt for the first method—although in the end, either one will still look gorgeous.
The Cost of Getting Faux Locs
The cost of getting faux locs depends on a few things, including where you’re located (bigger cities or fancier salons tend to be more expensive) and how long you want your locs (the longer, the more expensive). On average, though, the installation will cost you anywhere from $150 to $650 if you go the salon route.
Definitely bring snacks to your appointment as it can take anywhere from four to nine hours to get faux locs (less time if you do the crochet method, and more time if you do the wrapping method). However, just keep in mind that the length of the process will depend on how long and how skinny you want your locs along with what method your stylist uses.
Faux locs come with many pros and cons, and you should know about each of them before trying the style.
Some pros:
- You get to try locs without committing to the natural hair locking process.
- The style lasts up to two months if installed correctly.
- It’s a low-maintenance style that requires nothing more than covering your hair up at night and reapplying oil as needed.
- It’s easy to install after you’ve gotten used to the process.
Some cons:
- Faux locs can be very heavy, leading to neck pain and breakage in sensitive scalp areas.
- Installation can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours or longer, especially if you’re doing the style on yourself.
For many, the pros of faux locs far outweigh the cons. We hope that after reading this article you are well-informed about this great-looking, versatile protective style. Summer’s here and it’s the perfect time to experiment with protective styles that’ll shield your natural hair from sun, sea, sand and festival going. Faux locs are perfect for just that!
Buford Braiders
