Faux Locs vs Soft Locs - Which Style Suits You Best?

Locs are one of the most beautiful hairstyles to go with natural hair. It’s not just a hairstyle, but a lifestyle. While the style is closely associated with African American culture, that doesn’t mean it’s exclusive to one race or culture.

If you’ve been thinking about loc styles, you’ve likely seen two names come up often: faux locs and soft locs. They may sound similar, but each offers a different feel, look, and maintenance routine. Understanding faux locs vs soft locs can help you choose the style that works best for your hair and lifestyle.

What Are Faux Locs?

Faux locs are a protective style created by wrapping extensions around your natural hair or braided sections. The wrapping gives each loc a firm structure and a more defined look. Faux locs can be installed with synthetic hair, human hair, or a mix of both. They often have a denser feel and can last longer before needing a refresh.

What Are Soft Locs?

Soft locs use a similar wrapping method, but the materials and technique create a lighter, more flexible finish. They often use pre-made crochet locs wrapped with a softer extension hair. The result is a style that moves more freely and feels lighter on the scalp. Soft locs have a slightly less uniform look, giving them a more relaxed and natural appearance.

Key Differences in Comfort and Weight

One of the main differences between faux locs vs soft locs is the weight. Faux locs can feel heavier, especially if installed with thicker synthetic hair. This can give them a more dramatic presence, but may take time to get used to. Soft locs are lighter, which makes them more comfortable for extended wear and easier to style in updos.

How They Age Over Time

Faux locs often keep their shape and neatness longer. This is great if you want a polished look for several weeks. Soft locs, on the other hand, tend to loosen and soften as you wear them, which many people love for a lived-in, natural vibe. Your choice may depend on whether you want a long-lasting, structured look or one that relaxes into a more casual style.

Maintenance Considerations

Both styles require care to keep your scalp healthy. With faux locs, the firmer wrap can make cleansing a bit more challenging, so gentle scalp treatments are important. Soft locs allow slightly more access to your scalp, which can make it easier to moisturize and keep buildup away. Whichever you choose, regular scalp care will help your natural hair stay strong underneath.

Which Style Is Right for You?

When choosing between faux locs vs soft locs, think about the look, weight, and upkeep you prefer. Faux locs give you a bold, lasting style with more structure. Soft locs give you lightweight comfort and a relaxed feel. Both can protect your hair while letting you enjoy the beauty of loc styles without committing to permanent locs.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re drawn to the structure of faux locs or the movement of soft locs, Black Lotus Braid Lounge can create a look that suits you. We focus on healthy installation techniques and hair-friendly materials, so you can enjoy your style and keep your natural hair in great condition. Book your appointment and let’s bring your perfect loc style to life.