You’ve seen them on Rihanna. You’ve seen them all over TikTok. Faux locs braiding hair has basically changed the game for anyone who wants that bohemian, lived-in aesthetic without the decade-long commitment of actual locking. But here’s the thing. Most people buy the wrong hair, install it the wrong way, and then wonder why their scalp feels like it’s on fire three days later. It’s not just about picking a color.
The weight matters. The fiber matters. Honestly, the way you prep the hair before it even touches your head is the difference between a "wow" look and a "why did I do this" look.
Why Most People Get Faux Locs Braiding Hair Totally Wrong
Let’s get real. Most people walk into a beauty supply store, grab the first pack of Kanekalon or Marley hair they see, and head to the chair. Big mistake. Huge.
Authentic-looking locs aren’t supposed to look like shiny plastic ribbons. They need texture. Traditional Kanekalon is often too sleek. If you’re going for that "I just spent three years in the islands" vibe, you need something with a bit of a kinky-coarse grit. This is why Marley hair became the gold standard for wrapping. It mimics the natural texture of 4C hair perfectly.
However, there’s a new wave of "pre-made" locs. These are great for time-saving, but they can be heavy. Like, "can't-sleep-at-night" heavy. If you aren't careful about the density of the faux locs braiding hair you choose, you’re putting an insane amount of tension on your follicles. Traction alopecia isn't a joke, and it often starts with heavy extensions pulling on those delicate baby hairs at the nape and temples.
The Texture Debate: Synthetic vs. Human Hair
Is it worth spending $300 on human hair for faux locs? Probably not for most people. But let's look at the nuance.
Synthetic hair is essentially plastic. It’s cheap, it holds its shape, and it comes in every color from jet black to neon pink. The downside? It doesn’t "age" like real hair. Over a few weeks, synthetic locs can start to look raggedy in a bad way—not a cool, distressed way.
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Human hair extensions, specifically those used for Goddess Locs (a style popularized by Dr. Kari Williams), behave differently. They get better with time. They move. They have a certain "swing" that synthetic hair just can't replicate. Dr. Williams, who has worked with stars like Meagan Good and Ava DuVernay, emphasizes that the weight distribution of human hair blends is much kinder to the scalp.
But if you’re on a budget, don't sweat it. You can make synthetic faux locs braiding hair look high-end. The trick is "burning" the ends or using a light hand with a crochet hook to avoid that stiff, "stuck-on" appearance.
The Itch Factor is Real
Ever wonder why your head starts itching the second the braids are finished? It's usually not "dirt." Most synthetic braiding hair is coated in an alkaline film. Manufacturers do this to make the hair heat-resistant and prevent mold during shipping.
Your scalp? It hates it.
Before you even think about an install, do an Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) soak. Just dump the hair in a basin of warm water with a cup of ACV. You’ll see a white, cloudy film lift off. That’s the stuff that causes the "braid itch." Rinse it, let it air dry, and your scalp will thank you later.
Choosing Your Method: Crochet vs. Individual Wrap
Crochet is fast. You can be out of the chair in two hours. You cornrow your natural hair and then loop the pre-made locs through. It’s a lifesaver for busy people. But, you lose versatility. You can't always put it in a high bun without showing the cornrows underneath.
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Individual wraps are the "luxury" version. Your stylist braids your natural hair first, then wraps faux locs braiding hair around each braid. It looks incredibly realistic. It looks like it’s growing out of your head. But it takes forever. Six to eight hours is standard.
Which one should you pick? Honestly, if you have thin hair or a sensitive scalp, go crochet. The weight is distributed more evenly across the cornrows. Individuals put all the weight on a single square of hair.
A Quick Breakdown of Popular Hair Brands
- FreeTress: The king of crochet. Their "Butterfly Locs" are iconic.
- Bobbi Boss: Known for the Nu Locs. They have a more polished, uniform look.
- Cuban Twist: This is the GOAT for wrapping. It’s rough, it’s matte, and it stays put.
- Janet Collection: Good middle ground for those who want a bit of shine but still need that "afro" texture.
Maintenance (Or How to Not Ruin Your Edges)
You can't just leave these in for three months and pray. You've gotta hydrate.
Water is your friend, but don't soak the locs. Use a spray bottle with water and a tiny bit of peppermint oil. Aim for the scalp. Don't worry about the hair itself—the synthetic fibers don't need moisture, but your real hair underneath does.
And for the love of all things holy, wear a silk or satin bonnet. These locs are heavy and they create friction. If you toss and turn on a cotton pillowcase, you’re basically sandpapering your hairline.
Common Misconception: "They’re a Protective Style, So My Hair Will Grow"
Not necessarily. Faux locs are only protective if they are installed and removed correctly. If they are too tight, they are a "destructive" style. If you leave them in too long, your natural hair can start to mat inside the loc. When you finally take them out, you might end up cutting your own hair by mistake.
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Aim for 6 to 8 weeks. Anything longer is pushing it.
The Removal Process: Don't Rush It
This is where most people lose their hair. Literally.
When you go to take out your faux locs braiding hair, you’ll find a buildup of lint and product at the base of the loc. This is normal. It’s not "dandruff" or "rot." It’s just shed hair that had nowhere to go.
Use a takedown spray or just a lot of cheap conditioner with "slip." Slowly unravel the wrapping hair. Do not—I repeat, do not—just start hacking away with scissors near your roots.
Actionable Steps for Your Next Install
If you’re planning on getting faux locs this weekend, here is exactly what you need to do to ensure you don't regret it:
- Buy more hair than you think. If the stylist says 6 packs, buy 8. There is nothing worse than running out of hair with three braids left to go.
- The ACV Soak is non-negotiable. Do it 24 hours before your appointment.
- Check the weight. Pick up a pack of the hair. If it feels heavy in the bag, imagine 70 of those packs on your neck. Opt for "hollow" or "lite" versions if you have a sensitive neck.
- Prep your natural hair. Wash, deep condition, and do a light protein treatment. Your hair is about to be tucked away for two months; give it some strength before you hide it.
- Focus on the perimeter. Tell your stylist not to pull the edges. It doesn't need to be "snatched" to look good.
Faux locs are a vibe, a mood, and a whole aesthetic. They give you a chance to see yourself in a different light without the permanent change. Just remember that your natural hair's health is the priority. The extensions are just the accessory. Keep your scalp clean, keep the tension low, and enjoy the look.