Faux locs have become increasingly popular as a protective style that allows people to embrace the look of locs without long-term commitment. This versatile hairstyle offers a range of options for those looking to explore natural hairstyles while protecting their hair. In this article, we’ll explore 20 of the best faux locs ideas, providing inspiration for your next hairstyle transformation.
What Are Faux Locs?
Faux locs are a temporary protective hairstyle that mimics the appearance of natural dreadlocks. They are typically created using synthetic or human hair extensions that are wrapped around your natural hair. This technique allows you to achieve the look of locs without the long-term commitment or potential damage associated with traditional locking methods.
Benefits of Faux Locs
- Protection for natural hair
- Versatility in styling
- Low maintenance
- Ability to experiment with different looks
- Suitable for various hair types and textures
20 Best Faux Locs Ideas
Let’s dive into some of the most stunning and creative faux locs styles:
1. Bohemian Faux Locs
Bohemian faux locs are a free-spirited twist on the classic style. These locs feature a more relaxed, undone look with curly or wavy ends. The result is an effortlessly chic appearance that’s perfect for those who want a less structured style. To achieve this look, leave the ends of your faux locs uncurled or use a curling wand to create loose waves.
Pro Tip: Use a lightweight mousse or curl-defining cream on the ends of your bohemian faux locs to enhance their natural texture and reduce frizz.
Product Recommendation: Try the Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair Wave Whip Curling Mousse to define and hold your bohemian waves.
2. Ombre Faux Locs
Add dimension and depth to your faux locs with a stunning ombre effect. This technique involves gradually transitioning from one color to another, typically from a darker shade at the roots to a lighter hue at the ends. Popular ombre combinations include:
- Black to brown
- Brown to blonde
- Dark purple to lavender
- Chocolate brown to caramel
- Natural black to vibrant red
Pro Tip: To maintain the vibrancy of your ombre faux locs, use colour-safe shampoo and conditioner, and consider using a toning shampoo to counteract brassiness in blonde sections.
Product Recommendation: The Adore Semi-Permanent Hair Color line offers a wide range of colours that are perfect for creating custom ombre effects on faux locs.
3. Goddess Faux Locs
Embrace your inner deity with goddess faux locs. This style combines the structure of traditional faux locs with the softness of loose hair. The result is a romantic, ethereal look that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday wear. Achieve this style by leaving some of your natural hair or extensions loose between the locs.
Pro Tip: To enhance the goddess effect, consider adding small braids or twists to the loose hair sections for added texture and interest.
Product Recommendation: Use Eco Styler Olive Oil Styling Gel to lay down edges and control flyaways in your goddess faux locs style.
4. Crochet Faux Locs
For those seeking a quicker installation process, crochet faux locs are an excellent option. This method involves crocheting pre-made loc extensions onto cornrowed hair. The result is a natural-looking style that can be achieved in less time than traditional faux locs. Crochet faux locs are also easier to remove, making them ideal for those who like to change their style frequently.
Pro Tip: To ensure a seamless blend, choose crochet faux locs that closely match your natural hair texture and color at the roots.
Product Recommendation: Try the Bobbi Boss Crochet Braid Faux Locs for a quick and easy installation.
5. Distressed Faux Locs
Distressed faux locs offer a lived-in, edgy appearance that’s perfect for those who prefer a more rugged aesthetic. This style intentionally creates a slightly messy, textured look that mimics the appearance of natural locs that have been worn for some time. Achieve this look by gently rubbing your locs with a towel or using a texturizing spray.
Pro Tip: To create a more authentic distressed look, focus on roughing up the mid-lengths of the locs rather than the roots or ends.
Product Recommendation: The Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray can help create that perfectly undone, beachy texture for distressed faux locs.
6. Colored Faux Locs
Express your personality with vibrant colored faux locs. Whether you opt for a full head of color or just a few accent pieces, this style allows you to experiment with shades you might not try on your natural hair. Popular color choices include:
- Burgundy
- Blue (from navy to pastel)
- Green (emerald to sage)
- Purple (deep violet to lilac)
- Fiery red
- Sunset orange
Pro Tip: If you’re new to colored faux locs, start with a few accent pieces before committing to a full head of color. This allows you to experiment with different shades and see how they complement your skin tone.
Product Recommendation: For temporary color without commitment, try the Arctic Fox Vegan Semi-Permanent Hair Color in various vibrant shades.
7. Short Faux Locs
Short faux locs are a chic and low-maintenance option for those who prefer a more manageable length. This style typically falls at or above the shoulders, offering a fresh and youthful appearance. Short faux locs are perfect for summer or for those who find longer styles too heavy.
Pro Tip: To add volume to short faux locs, consider incorporating a few slightly thicker locs throughout the style.
Product Recommendation: The Bobbi Boss Nu Locs 10″ are perfect for creating short, natural-looking faux locs.
8. Extra-Long Faux Locs
Make a statement with extra-long faux locs that cascade down your back. This dramatic style is perfect for those who want to add length and volume to their hair. Extra-long faux locs can be styled in various ways, from simple ponytails to elaborate updos.
Pro Tip: To prevent extra-long faux locs from feeling too heavy, opt for a lighter synthetic hair material and consider using a loc extension method that doesn’t add too much bulk to your natural hair.
Product Recommendation: Try the X-Pression Ultra Braid for creating long, lightweight faux locs.
9. Faux Locs with Accessories
Elevate your faux locs by incorporating hair accessories. Add beads, cuffs, or wraps to create a unique and personalized look. These accessories not only add visual interest but can also help to secure your style and reduce frizz. Popular accessories include:
- Wooden or metallic beads
- Gold or silver cuffs
- Colorful thread wraps
- Shell decorations
- Jeweled pins
Pro Tip: When adding heavier accessories like beads or cuffs, distribute them evenly throughout your locs to prevent strain on any one area of your hair.
Product Recommendation: The Tocess Hair Cuffs Set offers a variety of metal cuffs perfect for adorning your faux locs.
10. Layered Faux Locs
Create dimension and movement with layered faux locs. This style involves installing locs of varying lengths to create a textured, cascading effect. Layered faux locs frame the face beautifully and can be customized to suit different face shapes.
Pro Tip: Work with your stylist to determine the most flattering layering pattern for your face shape. For example, shorter layers around the face can help soften a square jawline, while longer layers can elongate a round face.
Product Recommendation: Use the Shine ‘n Jam Magic Fingers for Braiders to help grip and control hair while creating precise layers in your faux locs.
11. Faux Locs Updo
Transform your faux locs into an elegant updo for formal occasions or when you want to keep your hair off your neck. From simple buns to intricate braided styles, the possibilities are endless. Experiment with different updo techniques to find the perfect look for you.
Popular faux locs updo styles include:
- High bun with wrapped base
- Half-up, half-down styles
- Braided crown
- Side-swept updo
- Mohawk-inspired style
Pro Tip: Use large bobby pins or loc-specific hair pins to secure your updo without causing damage to your faux locs.
Product Recommendation: The Goody Spin Pin is excellent for securing thick, textured hair in updo styles.
12. Boho Faux Locs Ponytail
Combine the laid-back vibe of bohemian faux locs with the practicality of a ponytail. This style keeps your hair out of your face while still showcasing the beautiful texture of your locs. Add a few loose strands around your face for a soft, romantic touch.
Pro Tip: Use a silk or satin scrunchie to tie your ponytail to prevent friction and breakage where the locs are gathered.
Product Recommendation: The Slip Silk Large Scrunchies are gentle on hair and perfect for creating a boho faux locs ponytail.
13. Faux Locs with Undercut
For a bold and edgy look, pair your faux locs with an undercut. This style involves shaving or closely cropping the hair on the sides and back of the head while leaving the top long enough to install faux locs. The result is a striking contrast that’s sure to turn heads.
Pro Tip: Consider asking your stylist to create a design in your undercut for added visual interest. Geometric patterns or subtle curves can enhance the overall look.
Product Recommendation: Maintain your undercut between salon visits with the Wahl Color Pro Cordless Rechargeable Hair Clipper & Trimmer.
14. Blonde Faux Locs
Lighten up your look with blonde faux locs. Whether you choose a warm honey blonde or a cool platinum shade, this style is sure to make a statement. Blonde faux locs look particularly striking against darker skin tones and can brighten up your overall appearance.
Popular blonde shades for faux locs include:
- Platinum blonde
- Honey blonde
- Ash blonde
- Strawberry blonde
- Golden blonde
Pro Tip: To prevent your blonde faux locs from looking brassy, use a purple shampoo once a week to neutralize yellow tones.
Product Recommendation: Try the Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo to keep your blonde faux locs looking fresh and vibrant.
15. Faux Locs with Curly Ends
Add a playful touch to your faux locs by leaving the ends curly. This style combines the structure of locs with the softness of curls, creating a beautiful texture contrast. Use perm rods or flexi rods to curl the ends of your locs for a bouncy finish.
Pro Tip: For longer-lasting curls, dip the ends of your faux locs in hot water after setting them on perm rods. Allow them to cool completely before removing the rods.
Product Recommendation: The Diane by Fromm 42-Pack Cold Wave Rods are perfect for creating curls of various sizes on your faux locs.
16. Micro Faux Locs
For a more delicate and refined look, try micro faux locs. These ultra-thin locs create a lightweight and versatile style that can be worn in various ways. While they may take longer to install, micro faux locs offer a very natural appearance and are perfect for those who prefer a less bulky style.
Pro Tip: Due to their small size, micro faux locs can be prone to frizz. Use a light hold gel or loc-specific product to smooth down flyaways and maintain a polished look.
Product Recommendation: The Taliah Waajid Lock It Up Tight Hold Gel is excellent for maintaining smooth, frizz-free micro faux locs.
17. Faux Locs with Side Part
A deep side part can add drama and sophistication to your faux locs. This simple styling technique can completely change the look of your locs, framing your face in a flattering way. Experiment with different parting positions to find the most flattering look for your face shape.
Pro Tip: For a sleek side part, use a rat-tail comb to create a precise line, then apply a small amount of edge control gel to keep the part defined.
Product Recommendation: The Design Essentials Natural Honey & Shea Edge Tamer is perfect for creating and maintaining a smooth side part in your faux locs.
18. Faux Locs Bob
Combine the trendy bob haircut with the texture of faux locs for a chic and modern look. A faux locs bob typically falls between the chin and shoulders, offering a manageable length that’s perfect for work or play. This style works well with both thin and thick locs.
Popular faux locs bob variations include:
- Asymmetrical bob
- A-line bob
- Blunt cut bob
- Layered bob
- Chin-length bob
Pro Tip: For a polished look, ask your stylist to shape the ends of your faux locs bob with scissors after installation. This creates a more defined silhouette.
Product Recommendation: Use the As I Am Dry & Itchy Scalp Care Olive & Tea Tree Oil Leave-In Conditioner to keep your scalp moisturized and flake-free with shorter faux locs styles.
19. Faux Locs with Highlights
Add dimension and visual interest to your faux locs with subtle highlights. Whether you opt for natural-looking caramel streaks or bold face-framing highlights, this technique can elevate your style and add depth to your overall look.
Popular highlighting techniques for faux locs include:
- Balayage
- Face-framing highlights
- Peek-a-boo highlights
- Ombre highlights
- Chunky highlights
Pro Tip: When adding highlights to faux locs, consider using a combination of lighter locs and your base color during installation, rather than trying to lighten existing locs.
Product Recommendation: For temporary highlights, try the L’Oreal Paris Hair Makeup 1-Day Color to experiment with different highlight placements.
20. Braided Faux Locs
For a unique twist on traditional faux locs, try incorporating braids into your style. This can involve braiding some sections of your hair before installing the locs or creating braided patterns with the locs themselves. Braided faux locs offer endless possibilities for creativity and personalization.
Some popular braided faux locs styles include:
- Half-up braided crown with hanging locs
- Fully braided faux locs (similar to goddess braids)
- Cornrow patterns at the scalp with hanging locs
- Braided bangs or front sections
- Fishtail braid accents
Pro Tip: To add extra security and longevity to your braided faux locs, use a clear elastic band at the end of each braid before wrapping it into a loc.
Product Recommendation: The Shine ‘n Jam Extra Hold is perfect for creating sleek braids and keeping your edges smooth in braided faux loc styles.
| Style | Installation Time | Maintenance Level | Longevity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bohemian Faux Locs | 4-6 hours | Low | 4-6 weeks |
| Crochet Faux Locs | 2-4 hours | Low to Medium | 4-8 weeks |
| Goddess Faux Locs | 5-7 hours | Medium | 6-8 weeks |
| Micro Faux Locs | 6-8 hours | Low | 6-10 weeks |
| Extra-Long Faux Locs | 6-8 hours | Medium to High | 6-8 weeks |
| Colored Faux Locs | 5-7 hours | Medium | 4-6 weeks |
| Braided Faux Locs | 5-8 hours | Medium to High | 6-8 weeks |
Tips for Maintaining Your Faux Locs
- Moisturize regularly to prevent dryness and frizz
- Sleep with a satin or silk scarf or pillowcase to reduce friction
- Avoid excessive manipulation to maintain the style’s longevity
- Clean your scalp gently with a diluted shampoo or witch hazel
- Retwist the roots as needed to keep the style looking fresh
- Use a loc-specific moisturizing spray to keep your locs hydrated
- Trim any loose or frayed ends to maintain a neat appearance
- Avoid using heavy oils that can cause buildup on your locs
- Protect your locs from chlorine and saltwater when swimming
- Consider using a handheld steamer to refresh your style and reduce frizz
“Faux locs are more than just a hairstyle; they’re a celebration of natural hair texture and a way to express individuality.” – Celebrity hairstylist Vernon François
Conclusion
Faux locs offer a beautiful way to embrace natural hair textures while providing versatility and protection. Whether you prefer a bohemian, polished, or edgy look, there’s a faux locs style to suit every taste and occasion. By experimenting with different techniques, colours, and accessories, you can create a unique look that reflects your personal style and celebrates the beauty of natural hair.
Remember that while faux locs are a protective style, it’s essential to continue caring for your natural hair underneath. Regular moisturizing, gentle cleansing, and giving your hair breaks between installations will help maintain the health of your natural locks.
As with any hairstyle, the key to rocking faux locs is confidence. Choose a style that makes you feel comfortable and authentically you. Whether you opt for classic, distressed, or vibrantly coloured locs, wear them with pride and embrace the versatility and beauty of your natural hair.
With proper care and maintenance, your faux locs can last anywhere from 4 to 10 weeks, depending on the style and installation method. This makes them an excellent option for those looking for a long-lasting protective style that requires minimal daily maintenance.
As you explore the world of faux locs, don’t be afraid to mix and match elements from different styles to create a look that’s uniquely yours. The beauty of this versatile hairstyle is that it allows for endless creativity and personal expression.