There’s no arguing it: Locs are the absolute G.O.A.T protective style.
The proof?
Millions of accounts online lauding loc versatility, convenience, and irrefutable hair growth. And do we even need to go into the numerous loc hairstyles flooding the market every other day?
There are bohemian locs, butterfly locs (a personal fave), goddess locs, and soft locs – the latest style to gain popularity among loc-obsessed girlies.
And while they resemble every other faux loc hairstyle, soft locs have some notable distinguishing features.
So, if you’ve been curious about this hairstyle (maybe you want to switch out your Florida Wicks), here’s everything you need to know about soft locs.
What Are Soft Locs?
As the name suggests, soft locs are a variant of faux locs that are softer to the touch (and appearance) and more versatile. And like butterfly locs and distressed bohemian locs, the key to getting the soft locs hairstyle is using a mixture of different textured hair.
Also, these locs are achieved using a knot or knotless method. More on that below.
What Hair & Products Are Used For Soft Locs?
Soft locks can be done either individually (by wrapping hair around your natural strands) or by crocheting, pre-made soft locs into cornrows. The key to creating drop-dead gorgeous soft locs is the type of hair you’ll use – which stylists recommend using:
Soft locks can be done either individually (by wrapping hair around your natural strands) or by crocheting, pre-made soft locs into cornrows. The key to creating drop-dead gorgeous soft locs is the type of hair you’ll use – which stylists recommend using:
- 4 or 5 packs of 36” or 30” (dependent on your preference) afro kinky hair, crochet faux locs, human hair blends, kinky wrapping hair, or water-wave passion twists
- You can also use 8 packs of 18” Bobbi Boss Nu Locs or 4 packs of 36-inch Bobbi Boss Nu Locs
You’ll also need the following:
- A crochet needle
- A rat tail comb
- Shine ‘n Jam Extra Hold Conditioning Gel
- Mielle Pomegranate & Honey Curl Defining Mousse With Hold
- 2 Packs Of Spring Twist Hair (for wrapping)
How To Install Soft Locs
1. The Knot Method
There are two main types of soft locs –knotted and knotless.
The knot method has a knot-like appearance at the root of the loc, while the knotless looks more natural. To install using the knot method:
I. Part clean, straightened, and moisturized hair into individual parts (natural braids)
II. Use your conditioning gel to sleek down and tame stubborn flyaways at the root of every parted section for some neat and seamless braids.
P.S.: You can braid your hair completely or halfway through, do freestyles as pictured above, or do some box-like parts
III. Take your crochet needle and loop the loc into the plait. F.Y.I…in this method, only the part of the loc with an opening is looped in and not the whole loc.
IV. Insert the plait into the opening of your loc, then pull both the loc and braid through to secure it.
V. After a successful crochet, continuously wrap the natural braid around the locs.
VI. Lay your edges and slather some mousse all over your locs.
For a detailed visual, check out the video below:
2. The Knotless Method
The knotless method is more natural than knotted method. To do it:
I. Part clean, straightened, and moisturized strands into individual parts.
II. Use your Shine ‘n Jam Gel on the parted sections for excellent grip and achieve neat sections.
III. Start plaiting the hair into a natural braid. Then in the middle, take your loc and put one of the strands of your braid through the loc’s opening loop.
IV. Now take that strand (the one you put through the loc), connect it with another strand (you’ll have three for braiding), add your loc to one of the strands, and start braiding down as normal. This is seamless and less knotty than when you crochet the lock a couple of inches away from the part where your braid starts. Don’t worry. You’ll get the full picture below.
V. For wrapping purposes, take your spring twist hair and a crochet needle, loop it in at the root (to secure it properly), and then wrap it away.
P.S.A.: wrap 2 or 3 times (tightly) at the root for excellent foundation and then wrap a little looser going down. And remember to tie it at the end twice (if you don’t have nail glue) to prevent unraveling.
Watch the video below for a full demo:
3. Extending Soft Locs
If you went for the 18” eight-pack of Bobbi Boss Nu Locs and want your locs to be butt-level, do this:
I. Take out one of the locs
II. Loop it into the bottom of your installed loc and then separate the already installed loc into two at the bottom
III. Braid both locs using the aid of the already installed loc that you separated into two until the second loc is securely installed/braided in
IV. There you have it! Long-a** soft locs. And isn’t it the perfect alternative to using sticky nail glue to secure your locs? We are here for it!
V. Before you get down to Church Girl, don’t forget your edges. You need to lay them down for that snatched-up look! So, take your favorite edge control, lock them baby hairs in, and apply your mousse for some much-needed shine and definition.
Here’s a tutorial:
4. D.I.Y. Soft Locs
If you’re a D.I.Y. enthusiast, check out this beginner-friendly tutorial for the full lowdown.
It’s pretty simple, though.
5. Criss-Cross Soft Locs
Just like you do with criss-cross box braids and criss-cross knotless braids, criss-cross soft locs are achieved using criss-cross rubber band partings at the front. (geez, that felt like a tongue-twister). These are then transitioned into some beautiful locs.
Check out DeraStyles in her criss-crossing element below:
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Soft Locs Better Than Faux Locs?
Yes, they kinda are. Compared to faux locs, soft locs offer more movement (not stiff) when installed, making them effortless to style. Also, they’re waaayy softer to the touch and in appearance.
Are They A Good Protective Style?
Definitely. If you want to give your hair a break or don’t want to commit to the longevity and constant maintenance of natural dreadlocks, soft locs are your best bet. They keep the roots of your hair tucked away and reduce manipulation.
Can You Wash Soft Locs?
The answer is yes.
And while it might seem tricky, the best way to wash soft locs is by focusing your fingertips on the scalp only and allowing the sulfate-free shampoo to wash down the loc without manipulating it.
Rubbing and tugging at the locs can cause them to untangle – something you’re trying to avoid, right? So, don’t!
How Long Does It Take To Install Soft Locs?
If you want head-turning results, you’ll have to be patient. Like 3 to 6 hours, depending on the length and since of the locs.
How Long Do They Last?
Experts say soft locs can last anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks. More than that, you risk weakened roots and hair breakage. The added weight of the locs can pull your roots, and excessive tension triggers scalp stress leading to breakage.
How Much Does It Cost To Install Them?
These locs cost anywhere between $200 to $600 to install. However, this all depends on your location, the length of the locs, and your stylist’s skill level.
How Do You Care For Soft Locs?
It’s pretty straightforward:
I. Always rock a silk bonnet or scarf when going to bed
II. Wash the locs as advised above – and remember, let the shampoo run down. Don’t rub or tug at the locs
III. Use dry shampoo and a cotton ball or cloth top to clean your scalp if you’re skeptical about washing them. You can also use apple cider vinegar hair rinse to get rid of scalp buildup and dandruff
IV. Apply mousse (once or twice a week) to tame flyaways and add some shine to the locs
How Do You Take Them Out?
To remove soft locs gently:
- Take off any beads or accessories to avoid snuggling your natural hair
- Loosen the loop at the top
- Pull your natural braid and crochet through the top loop gently
- Pull out the soft loc and secure your hair braid
- Detangle the strand
- Apply conditioner to each strand so that your hair remains wet (makes detangling easier)
You could also cut the soft locs about six inches under your natural hair and then unravel them from there. You can also use your favorite conditioner to help soften the hair, allowing the soft loc to slide out seamlessly.
30 Gorgeous Soft Loc Hairstyles
Now let’s look into some of the jaw-dropping soft loc hairstyles:
Side-Swept Locs
It feels good when you undoubtedly know you look drop-dead gorgeous.
This babe is regally basking in her own beauty!
Side Part
Delightfully gorgeous!
Distressed Soft Locs
Sis be looking finer than mulled wine on Thanksgiving!
30-Inch Small Soft Locs
Gotta love the Black. Girl. Magic!
36-inch Soft Locs
If they’re not this long, we don’t want ’em!
24-inch Locs
24-inch magic in the air!!! ?
Platinum Blonde Locs
Sometimes you’ve got to show them who’s boss! And this platinum/beige blonde just screams, “I own this space!”
Pecan Brown Locs
She might seem shy, but sis is rocking them locs like a boss bih!
Double-Bun Cascading Locs
The hair’s gorgeous, obvi. But those eyelids and lashes! Stunning asf!
Long Red Soft Locs
It’s the monochrome look for us!
18-inch Locs
Just what your spring hairstyle mood board ordered!
Bold Blue Mix Green Locs
Bold is the name of the game here! Go big or go home!
High Pony, Half-Up, Half-Down Locs
Might we suggest you don’t f**k with sis!
Thigh-Length
She knows she killin’ it. Living that stunning soft loc life!
Below De A**
Cuff it season kinda hair! (don’t ask questions!?)
Wavy Soft Locs
Now, this is how to rock them soft locs!
Criss-Cross
Next-level fashion statement or nah?
Otherworldly Space Buns
This soft loc space bun is giving us revamped 90s vibes, and we love it! Plus, it works for teenagers and girlies looking to have some fun!
Center-Parted Locs
If she was a scale, then she’d be off the meter! ?
Soft Locs With Wispy Curls
This style has us in a chokehold!
Jaw-Dropping Burgundy Locs
Melanin poppin! Burgundy poppin! All-around poppin!
Halo-ed Soft Locs
Beyonced in!
Mesmerizing Ombre Locs
Totalmente perfecto!
Bedazzled Soft Locs
A little razzle-dazzle never hurt nuhbody!
Short Soft Locs
Not all locs need to drape off your back. These simple, short options are perfect for the girl boss and babes who don’t subscribe to the up-to-knees-length of hair.
Barbie Pony With Loc Knots
She said she wants a pony but with a head-turning twist! (literally)
The Pearl Studded Crown
Who’s getting married soon? Coz we’re about to flood your feed with this cute Jordan Dunn-approved number!
The Soft Loced High Pony
Sis be queening them locs. And those edges? Dope!
Voluminous Locs
Head full of sexy locs? Yes, please! In fact, where do we sign up?
Edgy Shaved Sides Locs
It’s givin’ never ever play me like I’m average!
Piled Up Mess
This boy be in my DM say I’m pretty!
Funky Faux Hawk
It’s givin’ “I’m feelin’ myself” and “I run these streets,” and we’re here for it!
The Meag. G Gold Goddess Locs
If Meag. G approves; who are we to think otherwise?
Artsy Soft Locs
Leave it to Chloe and Halle to leave us mesmerized!
Tangled Twisted Locs
Her stylist is the real deal!
Pretty in Purple With Curly Ends
Bathing in purple rain or nah?!
Wrapped Soft Locs
This wrapped-up look fits the bill!
Messy Sky-High Bun
Ooh, she know she bad!
Ombre Gray Locs
If you’ve always wanted to go gray, now’s a perfect time!
