False dreadlocks, commonly known as “Faux Locs,” are a popular protective hairstyle, particularly well-suited for black hair. Faux locs shield natural hair from constant styling and manipulation and offer a wide range of styling and color options.
This hairstyle has become a major trend in both beauty and protective styling, with celebrities like Eva Marcille, Tyra Banks, Meagan Good, and even Rihanna showcasing it.
If you’ve ever admired the look of permanent dreadlocks but hesitated due to the long-term commitment, or if you’re exploring a new protective hairstyle, faux locs could be a perfect choice. The hairstyle offers greater flexibility than traditional braids.
While braids often look best when freshly done, faux locs look even more natural and appealing as they age. There’s less pressure to maintain a “perfectly styled, fresh from the salon” appearance of faux locs, reducing stress for the wearer.
More so faux locs’ installation and the wearing process place less tension on your edges, minimizing the risk of damage from tightly pulled hair. This makes the trendy hairstyle a healthier option for your hair.
Ahead, are more details about faux locs, alongside a number of hairstyles to add to your list.
What Are Faux Locs?
Faux locs are a hairstyle designed to mimic the look of traditional dreadlocks. Unlike conventional dreadlocks, faux locs are temporary and highly versatile. The hairstyle can be created using either human hair extensions or synthetic hair, with synthetic hair often being the preferred choice due to its affordability and ease of customization.
To achieve faux locs, hair extensions are braided into your natural hair. This hairstyle is not only long-lasting but also offers protective benefits, much like soft locs.
How to Install Faux Locs
Faux locs can be installed using two main techniques: wrapping and crocheting.
Wrapping Method:
Process: In this wrapping method of faux locs, sections of your hair are either braided or twisted first. Then, using one hand to hold the base extension tightly against your natural hair, the other hand wraps the loc extension around until it reaches the desired length.
This method can be quite time-intensive, but it results in a more natural look. Due to the time required, many opt for pre-made extensions designed for the crochet method.
Crochet Method:
The crochet method of faux locs has two variations: the cornrow method and the hidden individuals/Jazz Nicole method.
For the cornrow method, locs are crocheted into a cornrow base. This method is faster to install. Styling versatility is limited due to the visible parts and predictable patterns, especially if you prefer updos.
For the Hidden Individuals Method, faux locs are crocheted into individual braided or twisted sections. The single braids or twists are concealed within the faux loc crochet extension itself. This method offers greater styling flexibility.
You can combine both methods for a hybrid approach. For example, if you like wearing your hair in buns or ponytails, you can use the individual method around the perimeter of your head and the cornrow method for the middle. This allows for easier styling while maintaining a full look.
15 Faux Locs Hairstyles To Try
If you’re considering trying faux locs in 2024, here are some styles you might want to explore:
Long Faux Locs
Super long faux locs are truly fabulous but require significant time, patience, and skill to create. The results, however, are worth the effort, delivering a striking and posh hairstyle appearance.
Jumbo Faux Locs
Jumbo faux locs are large-sized, bold locs. If you’re looking to stand out and draw attention to your hair, jumbo faux locs are a great choice.
Goddess / Boho Faux Locs
Goddess and Boho loc feature wavy or curly ends, giving them a distinctive look. With boho faux locs, you make use of human hair extensions and more curls than locs.
Bob Faux Locs
Bob locs are one of the favorite hairstyles for many women. The short nature of the faux locs is flattering and easy to manage.
Yarn Faux Locs
Yarn faux locs are created using yarn, as the name suggests. This creative and versatile hairstyle can be shaped in various ways and is perfect for those on a low budget.
Faux Locs with Flat Twists
The flat twist is always a fave among ladies and it’s just as gorgeous as you can imagine when the hairstyle is done with faux locs
Butterfly Faux Locs
Butterfly faux locs are a modern twist on traditional locs, using loose, textured extensions to create a voluminous, free-flowing, and aesthetically pleasing hairstyle look.
Crochet Faux Locs
For the crochet faux locs hairstyle, locs are crocheted into a cornrow base, individual braided or twisted sections. The single braids or twists are concealed within the faux loc crochet extension itself. This method offers greater styling flexibility.
Layered Faux Locs
Layering your faux locs can give your hairstyle a unique and textured look. By adding layers, you can create depth and dimension, making your locs appear fuller and more interesting.
Waterfall Faux Locs
Waterfall faux locs are created to have a cascading effect, creating a flowy appearance. You can mix various colors to achieve a perfect boho-chic vibe.
Invisible Faux Locs
Invisible faux locs are a new and trendy hairstyle achieved by twisting two sectioned locs together. This method results in a neat, twisted finish that looks clean and stylish.
Thin Mermaid Faux Locs
Thin mermaid faux locs are long, wavy, whimsical, and unique, making this a great hairstyle for you to try.
Faux Locs with Nape Undercut
Faux locs can be attached to the hair of varying lengths, even short haircuts with an undercut at the nape. Adding a few colored strands can bring a vibrant touch to the style, making it more lively and dynamic.
Distressed Faux Locs
Distressed faux locs have an effortlessly cool, bohemian look. This style is a trendy option worth trying this season.
Colored Faux Locs
For those who want to try something bold and different, colored faux locs are an excellent choice. A striking color like blue or blonde can make your faux locs look fun.
Photo: Instagram/samiorenelda
