How To Care for Faux Locs
Faux locs are a fabulous way to add some serious style to your look, and it also gives your hair some kind of protection.
However, if you’re not careful, they can also cause some serious damage to your hair. That’s why it’s important to know how to properly care for your faux locs so you won’t have a hard time with them.
In this article, we will share everything you need to know about faux locs, including some tips on how to care for them.
We will also list down some of the common types of faux locs that you can copy so you can rock that cool hairstyle.
What are Faux Locs?
Faux locs have been around for centuries. The earliest known instance of someone wearing faux locs was in ancient Egypt, where both men and women wore them as a sign of wealth and status.
In more recent years, faux locs have been worn by celebrities like Alicia Keys and Janet Jackson, as well as by everyday people who want to try a new style.
Faux locs are a type of protective styling that involves wrapping synthetic hair around the natural hair to create the appearance of dreadlocks. The word “faux” means false, so this hairstyle gives the appearance of having locs (dreadlocks) without actually having to grow them out.
Unlike traditional locs, which are created by wrapping natural hair underneath the fake hair, faux locs are made from synthetic materials such as Kanekalon or Marley hair.
This type of hair is often available in a variety of colors and textures, making it a versatile option for those who want to experiment with their look.
The style can be achieved with either braiding hair or bulk hair, and it is often worn as a protective style. Faux locs are a popular choice for people who want the look of dreadlocks without the commitment, as they can be easily installed and removed.
Faux locs can be worn in several ways, including loose, braided, or twisted. While they are relatively easy to install, it is important to take care of your faux locs to prevent them from tangling or matting. With proper care, faux locs can last longer without any complications.
See also: Common Problems with Dreadlocks (and how to avoid them)
Why do Faux Locs Need Special Care?
Faux locs are a beautiful and stylish way to wear your hair, but they do require special care to maintain their look.
Although they are often seen as low-maintenance, faux locs require some special care to keep them looking their best.
You need to give special care to faux locs to make sure that they will stay hydrated and moisturized. Proper washing, and choosing the correct products for your hair will make it less prone to damage. Also, rinse it thoroughly to remove all traces of soap so your locs won’t become brittle and dry.
Taking care of your locs may sound too laborious, but the truth is it isn’t. It will just take some getting used to, but once you’ve made it part of your routine, everything will be easy.
Faux Locs Care
Caring for faux locs has a similar routine of washing, hydrating, and protecting just like the special care for other protective styles. By following these simple steps, you will have great-looking locs for a longer time.
Washing
Faux locs are a great option for those who want to experiment with their look without damaging their natural hair.
However, because they are made of synthetic materials, you need to follow extra steps in washing them. Here are some tips for washing your faux locs:
- Start by soaking your locs in lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes. This will help to loosen any dirt and debris that has become trapped in the hair.
- Gently massage a mild shampoo into the locs, being careful not to tug or pull on the hair. Remember to choose the right shampoo. A shampoo bar or a gentle liquid shampoo will clean your locs without stripping away their natural oils.
- Rinse the shampoo out thoroughly, using lukewarm water.
- Apply a conditioner to the locs, focusing on the ends. It’s important to use a conditioner specifically formulated for faux locs. Look for a conditioner that is high in moisture but light enough to avoid weighing down your locs. Coconut oil is a great option, as it helps to hydrate and detangle without leaving a greasy residue. You should also look for a conditioner with proteins, which help to strengthen and repair damaged hair. You can allow the conditioner to sit for 3-5 minutes before rinsing it out.
- Once your locs are clean, gently pat them dry with a towel. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the hair, as this can cause damage. Allow the locs to air dry or style as desired.
Hydrating
One of the most important steps in keeping your locs healthy is hydration. Just like our own hair, locs need to be regularly moisturized to stay soft and supple. Here are some of the tips you can follow to keep your faux locs hydrated.
- Use a leave-in conditioner or oil before styling. This will help to seal in moisture and protect your hair from the heat of styling tools. Leave-in conditioners also are a great help in detangling locs while also providing moisture and shine. When buying a leave-in conditioner, choose the product that is packed with shea butter and other nutrients that help to restore dry, damaged hair.
- Deep condition your locs regularly to prevent them from becoming too dry. You can try using a hydrating spray or cream, and apply it liberally throughout the week.
- Try misting your locs with water throughout the day to keep them from drying out. Using mist provides plenty of moisture and holds to your faux locs. Faux locs can be dry and brittle, so it’s important to find a product that will keep them healthy and hydrated.
- Use mousse to hold the faux in place and tame the frizz. If you have curls at the end of your hair, prevent them from sticking together by using mousse.
- Drink plenty of water to keep your hair and scalp hydrated from the inside out.
Protection
Faux locs are a great way to protect your natural hair while still rocking a stylish and unique look. However, faux locs can be delicate, and it’s important to take care of them to prevent tangles and damage. Here are a few guidelines for protecting your faux locs:
- Avoid tight hairstyles: Styles that pull on the roots of your locs can cause breakage. Tight hairstyles can cause scalp irritation and lead to headaches. Also, tight hairstyles can make it difficult to properly care for your locs, which can lead to tangles and knots.
- Don’t over-style: Too much heat and styling can damage both your natural hair and your faux locs. If you must use heat, be sure to use a heat protectant spray or cream beforehand. And when possible, allow your locs to air dry instead of using a blow dryer.
- Be careful when brushing: When brushing your locs, be gentle to avoid damaging the strands. A soft-bristled brush or comb is best for this task. Start at the bottom of the locs and work your way up, being careful not to pull too hard.
- Use a silk scarf at night: Sleeping with a silk scarf wrapped around your head will help to keep your locs in place and prevent them from tangling while you sleep. When you wear a silk scarf or bonnet at night, it creates a barrier between your hair and the pillow. This helps to prevent friction and prevent your locs from becoming tangled or matted. In addition, silk is a natural heat conductor, which means it can help to keep your head cool and comfortable while you sleep.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Faux locs are often made with synthetic hair, which can be more delicate than your natural hair. Avoid using harsh shampoos and conditioners, as well as hair products that contain alcohol or other harsh chemicals.
See also: Top 3 Dreadlock Sleeping Caps & 5 Ways To Keep Your Dreads Moisturized
The Different Types of Faux Locs
Faux locs are a beautiful and unique way to wear your hair. This protective style can be worn with various styles and textures, and can be customized to suit your taste.
While traditional locs are usually made with synthetic hair, faux locs can be made with human hair, wool, or even yarn. The possibilities are endless!
There are many different ways to style faux locs, from loose and natural-looking to bold and colorful. Here are some of the most common types of faux locs that you can copy.
Regular faux locs
Regular faux locs are usually made from synthetic hair that has been wrapped around real dreadlocks. This creates a natural-looking style that can be worn every day.
Because regular faux locs are not permanently attached to the natural hair, they can be taken out and redone as often as you like.
Crochet faux locs
Crochet faux locs are achieved by using a crocheting needle to interlock synthetic hair with your natural hair. This method is less damaging to your hair than other methods, but it can be time-consuming.
Crochet faux locs can either be wrapped before or after, and there are two methods to put them in: cornrows and crochet or box braided and twist your natural hair into the locs.
Distressed faux locs
This trend combines the classic look of dreadlocks with a modern twist. The result is a style that is both edgy and fashionable. To create distressed locs, the hair is first cornrowed into small sections.
Then, each section is wrapped tightly with yarn or another type of material. Once the hair is fully covered, it is then carefully unraveled to create a tousled, undone look. This style can be worn on any hair texture, but it looks especially striking on kinky hair.
Goddess faux locs
Goddess faux locs are a beautiful and elegant way to wear locs. Many women choose to wear them as a way to embrace their natural hair, while others simply appreciate the luxurious look of long, flowing locs.
Bohemian faux locs
Bohemian locs are made with soft, synthetic hair that is wrapped around the natural hair to create locks. This method of locking hair is less likely to cause damage, and it also allows for a more intricate and stylish look.
Bohemian locs can be worn in a variety of styles, from loose and flowing to sleek. They can also be decorated with beads, shells, and other accessories for a truly unique look.
Soft locs vs. Faux locs
If you’re considering adding locs to your look, you’ll first need to decide between soft locs and faux locs.
Soft locs are made with real human hair, which means they can be styled just like your natural hair. However, they’re also more expensive and require more upkeep than faux locs.
Faux locs, on the other hand, are made with synthetic fibers that mimic the look of real hair. They’re cheaper and easier to maintain than soft locs, but they don’t offer the same level of styling versatility.
The technique of installing faux locs is different from that of softer crochet locs. Although you may plait your hair separately for both. To create faux locs, you must wrap the hair from the roots to the end. You only need to wrap crochet locs from the roots to where your natural hair ends. Traditional fake locs require more time and work because they must be wrapped to your scalp.
The main benefit of faux locs is that you may control their length. You may make it as short or as long as you like. However, because soft locs are formed from crochet locs, the length will be determined by the original length of the hair.
How Long do Faux Locs Last
The answer depends on a few factors, including the type of locs you choose and how well you take care of them.
Synthetic locs made from Kanekalon or other synthetic fibers can last for several months, but if you opt for natural fibers like wool or cotton, your locs will only last for a few weeks. Proper maintenance is also critical to prolonging the life of your locs.
Be sure to clean them regularly and keep them moisturized to prevent tangles and breakage. With proper care, faux locs can be a fun and fashionable way to wear your hair for weeks or even months at a time.
When done correctly, faux locs can be a beautiful and stylish way to wear your hair.
Conclusion
Faux locs are a beautiful and protective style for your hair. They can be customized to fit any occasion, and with the right care, they will last for weeks at a time.
We hope you’ve found this post helpful in deciding whether faux locs are the right style choice for you, as well as providing some tips on how to take care of them once they’re installed. Have fun trying out this new look!
Aida
