5 Easy Steps to Master Faux Locs ~ future.housing.org.uk

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of faux locs, an enchanting hairstyle that effortlessly evokes the spirit of ancient African traditions. This versatile and alluring technique offers a boundless canvas for self-expression, allowing you to embrace your individuality and channel your inner diva. Whether you seek a trendy, edgy look or a timeless, bohemian allure, faux locs possess the extraordinary ability to transform your appearance, empowering you to make a bold statement wherever you go.

The journey to mastering the art of faux locs begins with a thorough understanding of the technique itself. By employing a variety of braiding methods, extensions, and accessories, faux locs meticulously mimic the intricate, twisted nature of traditional locs. They offer a remarkable level of customization, enabling you to tailor the length, thickness, and style to complement your unique features and personal aesthetics. Additionally, faux locs provide a protective shield for your natural hair, offering a respite from frequent styling and manipulation, promoting its health and vitality.

Embarking on the path to creating your own faux locs requires precision, patience, and a dash of creativity. The first step involves selecting the appropriate braiding technique, ensuring that it aligns with your desired outcome. From two-strand twists to crochet braids, each method yields a distinct look and texture. Once the foundation is laid, you can unleash your imagination by adding extensions, beads, or other embellishments, transforming your faux locs into a captivating masterpiece that reflects your personal style. With meticulous attention to detail and a keen eye for aesthetics, you can elevate your faux locs to an art form, turning heads and leaving an unforgettable impression.

Materials You’ll Need

Synthetic Dreadlocks

The choice of synthetic dreadlocks can significantly impact the final look and feel of your faux locs. Consider the following factors when selecting your dreadlocks:

Texture:

Dreadlocks come in various textures, including kinky, curly, and wavy. Choose a texture that complements your natural hair or the desired aesthetic you are aiming for.

Thickness:

Dreadlocks come in different thicknesses, ranging from thin to thick. The thickness you select will determine the overall volume and weight of your faux locs.

Length:

Dreadlocks come in a wide range of lengths. Choose a length that suits your desired style, from short and playful to long and flowing.

Color:

Synthetic dreadlocks are available in an array of colors, from natural shades like brown and black to vibrant hues like red and pink. Select a color that aligns with your personal preferences or matches your existing hair color.

Other Essential Materials

In addition to synthetic dreadlocks, you will need the following materials to complete your faux locs:

Crochet hook
Freetress crochet needle
Hair clips
Rubber bands
Comb or brush
Wig cap (optional)
Styling gel or mousse (optional)

Prepping Your Hair

Before you begin creating faux locs, it is crucial to prepare your hair to ensure a smooth and successful process. Here are detailed steps to guide you through hair preparation:

1. Wash and Condition

Thoroughly wash and condition your hair using a gentle shampoo and conditioner designed for your hair type. This will remove any dirt, oil, or styling products that may interfere with the faux locs formation.

2. Divide and Braid Your Hair

Divide your hair into smaller sections, typically 1-2 inches wide. The number of sections will depend on the density and thickness of your hair.

Once you have divided your hair, begin braiding each section tightly from root to tip. Use a synthetic braiding hair of a similar color to your natural hair for a seamless blend.

To create evenly sized locs, braid each section with the same tightness and consistency. Avoid braiding too tightly, as this can cause tension on your scalp and breakage.

Braiding Techniques

There are two main braiding techniques used for faux locs: box braids and cornrows.

Braiding Technique	Description
Box Braids	Square-shaped braids that are created by dividing the hair into small rectangular sections and braiding each section individually.
Cornrows	Raised, curved braids that are created by separating the hair into three strands and weaving them together, following the contour of the scalp.

Inserting the Faux Locs

Once you have prepared your hair and faux locs, you can start inserting them.

Step 1: Create a Small Braid
Separate a small section of your hair, about 1 inch wide and 1-2 inches long. Braid this section tightly.

Step 2: Attach the Faux Loc
Using the hair above the braid, attach the faux loc about 1/2 inch from the base. Wrap the hair around the base of the faux loc several times until it is secure.

Step 3: Braid the Hair and Loc Together
Continue braiding the hair and faux loc together, using the same three-strand braiding technique you used for the small braid.

Step 4: Insert the Rest of the Loc
Once you reach the end of the small braid, insert the remaining faux loc into the braid. Continue braiding until you have used all of the faux loc.

Tip	Description
Use a crochet hook to tighten any loose sections.
Wrap the hair around the base of the hook and pull it through the loc.
Repeat this process until the loc is secure.

Sealing the Locs

1. Dip the Ends in Boiling Water

Gently dip the tips of the faux locs into boiling water for 1-2 seconds. This heat-sealing method melts the synthetic hair, preventing it from unraveling and becoming frizzy.

2. Seal with a Hot Comb

Use a hot comb at a low temperature to seal the ends of the locs. Hold the hot comb over the tips for a few seconds, pressing down gently to melt the hair strands together.

3. Apply Adhesive Glue

Apply a small amount of adhesive glue to the tips of the faux locs and let it dry for a few minutes. This glue strengthens the seal and prevents the locs from coming undone.

4. Use a Loc Retwisting Gel

Apply a generous amount of loc retwisting gel to the entire length of the faux locs. This gel helps hold the strands together, creating a more defined and natural-looking style.

5. Set with a Blow Dryer

Direct the heat from a blow dryer onto the faux locs to set the gel and seal the ends. Use a low-heat setting to avoid damaging the synthetic hair.

6. Advanced Sealing Techniques

For a more permanent and secure seal, consider the following additional techniques:

Technique	Description
Hot Wire Method	Pass a heated wire or crochet needle through the ends of the faux locs to melt and seal them together. This method provides a very strong and durable seal.
Knotting Method	Tie a small knot at the tips of the faux locs and apply adhesive glue to secure it. This method creates a discreet and effective seal.
Interlocking Method	Interlock two or more faux locs together using a crochet hook or interlocking tool. This technique creates a permanent and secure seal, resulting in a more natural-looking style.

Styling the Locs

Once your faux locs are complete, you can style them to create various looks. Here are some popular styling options:

1. Loose and Wavy

This style involves separating the locs into smaller sections and using a curling iron or wand to create soft, loose waves. You can also finger-comb the locs to create a more voluminous, textured look.

2. High Ponytail

Gather all the locs into a high ponytail on the top of your head. You can secure it with an elastic band or a hair tie. This style creates a sleek and elegant look that’s perfect for special occasions.

3. Braided Bun

Braid the locs into a few sections and then pull them up into a bun at the back of your head. You can secure the bun with bobby pins or hairspray. This style is perfect for keeping the hair out of your face and creating a sophisticated look.

4. Updo with Accessories

Use hair accessories such as beads, charms, or hair wraps to embellish your faux locs. You can wrap the hair wraps around the roots of your locs or use them to create decorative braids. This style is a great way to add personality and style to your faux locs.

5. Half-Up, Half-Down

Part your hair horizontally and pull the top half into a ponytail or bun. Leave the bottom half of your hair loose and cascading over your shoulders. This style is perfect for creating a casual, yet polished look.

6. Faux Fringe

Separate a small section of locs at the front of your head and cut them to create a fringe. You can style the fringe according to your preference, such as a side-swept bang or a blunt cut.

7. Halo Braid

This style is perfect for creating a bohemian look. Braid the locs around the perimeter of your head, creating a halo-like effect. You can secure the braid with bobby pins or hairspray. This style is a great way to keep the hair out of your face and create a unique and stylish look.

Removing Faux Locs

Removing faux locs requires patience and care to avoid damaging your natural hair. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

9. Using a Crochet Hook

This method is recommended for those with thick or tightly twisted locs. Using a crochet hook with a latch hook, insert the latch hook under the root of the loc. Gently lift and open the loop, then slide the loc out using your fingers. Repeat the process for all the locs.

Pros	Cons
Efficient for tight locs	Requires practice to avoid snagging

Additional Tips

* Use a detangling spray or conditioner to lubricate your hair and make the removal process easier.
* Hold the hair close to the root to prevent breakage.
* Take breaks to rest your hands and avoid cramps.
* If the locs are too stubborn to remove manually, you may need to cut them close to the root and have them professionally removed.
* Deep condition your hair after removing the faux locs to restore moisture and prevent damage.

Troubleshooting Common Faux Locs Issues

Not Separating the Faux Locs During Installation

If you don’t separate the faux locs before installing them, they can clump together and create an uneven look. To avoid this, use your fingers or a comb to gently separate the faux locs before you start crocheting them into your hair.

Not Tightening the Faux Locs Enough

If the faux locs are not tightened enough, they can slip out of your hair. To ensure that the faux locs are secure, make sure to tighten them as tightly as possible when crocheting them in.

Using the Wrong Size Crochet Hook

If you use a crochet hook that is too small, you may not be able to tighten the faux locs enough. If you use a crochet hook that is too large, you may damage your hair. To find the right size crochet hook, consult the instructions that came with the faux locs.

Over-Styling the Faux Locs

Faux locs can be styled in a variety of ways, but it’s important to avoid over-styling them. Too much styling can damage the faux locs and make them more likely to break.

Not Using a Protective Net or Cap

When you sleep or exercise, it’s important to use a protective net or cap to keep your faux locs from getting tangled and matted.

Not Washing Your Faux Locs Properly

Faux locs should be washed every 2-3 weeks with a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Avoid using hot water, as this can damage the faux locs.

Not Drying Your Faux Locs Properly

Faux locs should be air-dried or dried on a low heat setting. Avoid using a high heat setting, as this can damage the faux locs.

Not Trimming the Faux Locs Regularly

Faux locs should be trimmed every 4-6 weeks to remove any split ends and to keep them looking neat and tidy.

Not Removing the Faux Locs Properly

When you remove faux locs, it’s important to do it carefully to avoid damaging your hair. To remove the faux locs, use a crochet hook to gently undo the crochet stitches.

Not Giving Your Hair a Break from Faux Locs

It’s important to give your hair a break from faux locs every 6-8 weeks. This will allow your hair to recover from the tension and styling that is involved in wearing faux locs.

How To Do The Faux Locs

Faux locs are a beautiful and versatile protective style that can be worn in a variety of ways, from long and flowing to short and chunky. They are also relatively easy to create and maintain, making them a great option for those who want to try a new style without committing to the time and effort of getting traditional locs.

To create faux locs, you will need:

Kanekalon hair (also known as synthetic dread hair)
A crochet hook
Scissors
A spray bottle filled with water
A styling cream or gel

Once you have gathered your supplies, you can begin creating your faux locs.

Step 1: Prepare The Hair

Begin by sectioning your hair into small, even squares. The size of the squares will determine the thickness of your locs.

Step 2: Crochet The Hair

Take a piece of Kanekalon hair and fold it in half. Use the crochet hook to pull the folded end of the hair through the center of a hair square.

Step 3: Secure The Hair

Pull the ends of the Kanekalon hair through the loop you created in step 2. This will create a knot that will secure the hair to your head.

Step 4: Repeat

Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you have crocheted all of the hair squares.

Step 5: Style The Locs

Once all of the locs are crocheted, you can style them to your liking. You can leave them long and flowing, or you can twist them into buns or braids.