How Long Do Faux Locs Last? What to Expect

Thinking about getting faux locs? The first question everyone asks is how long they’ll last. You want to know if they’re worth the time and money.

This blog gives you the real timeline for faux locs. You’ll learn how long different styles last, what makes them wear out faster, and how to stretch their lifespan. I’ll also cover what to expect each week, so you’re never caught off guard.

I’ve been installing and wearing faux locs for years. I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t on all hair types. These aren’t guesses. This is real information from someone who lives and breathes protective styling. You’ll get honest answers about maintenance, when to take them down, and how to make your investment last. No fluff, just the facts you need to plan your style.

What Are Faux Locs?

Faux locs give you the loc look without the wait. I’m talking about a hairstyle that mimics real locs but comes out whenever you want. You get all the style with none of the years-long commitment.

Definition of Faux Locs

This is a temporary protective style. You wrap synthetic hair around your natural hair to create the appearance of locs. The best part? Your real hair stays tucked away and protected underneath.

Think of faux locs as a hair costume. They look like traditional locs that took years to mature. But you can install them in hours and remove them in weeks. Works for relaxed hair, natural hair, and everything in between.

Types of Hair Used

You have options when picking your hair. Each type creates a different texture and look. Here’s what most people use:

• Kanekalon hair: Smooth, lightweight, most popular choice
• Marley’s hair: Textured, natural-looking, slightly heavier
• Cuban twist hair: Kinky texture, realistic finish

I recommend starting with Kanekalon if you’re new. It’s easier to work with and costs less. You can always try the others once you know what you like.

Why Faux Locs Are Popular

Protection is the main reason people choose this style. Your natural hair gets a break from daily styling, heat, and manipulation. Less damage means healthier hair growth over time.

But let’s be real – the customization is amazing. Want waist-length burgundy locs? Done. Prefer shoulder-length black ones? Easy. You control the length, color, and thickness. Plus, your mornings get simpler. No detangling. No styling products. Just wake up and go.

How Long Do Faux Locs Last?

You can rock faux locs for 4 to 8 weeks on average. The exact time depends on how well you care for them. Some people push it longer, but that’s not always smart.

Average Lifespan of Faux Locs

Most faux locs look fresh for about 1 to 2 months. After that, they start showing wear. You’ll notice frizz around your hairline and the roots growing out.

Your maintenance routine matters here. Sleep with a satin scarf. Keep your scalp moisturized. Do these things, and your locs stay neat longer. Skip them, and you might need to take them out early.

What Happens If You Keep Them in Too Long

Here’s where things get risky. Leaving faux locs for the past 8 weeks can damage your hair. Your natural hair starts matting and knotting at the roots. The style gets heavier as your hair grows. Extra weight pulls on your edges and scalp.

That last point is serious. You wanted temporary locs, not permanent ones. Once your natural hair locks together, you can’t undo it without cutting. Your real hair might start locking permanently. Not worth the risk.

Professional Recommendation

Don’t push past 8 weeks. Period. I know the installation took time and money. But your hair health matters more than convenience.

Take them out on schedule. Give your scalp a break between installs. Your edges will thank you later. Trust me, preventing damage is way easier than fixing it.

Factors That Affect How Long Faux Locs Last

Not all faux locs wear the same way. Several things determine if yours lasts 4 weeks or 8 weeks. Let me break down what really matters.

• Installation method: Crochet locs tend to last longer than braid-in styles. The attachment stays tighter with less slippage over time.
• Loc thickness: Thicker locs get heavy fast and pull on your roots. Smaller locs show frizz earlier but feel lighter on your scalp.
• Your hair type: Natural hair holds faux locs better than relaxed hair. Relaxed hair is smooth, and the extensions can be slimmer easily.
• Scalp sensitivity: Some scalps can’t handle tension for 8 weeks straight. Buildup from products also shortens how long you can wear them.
• Night protection: Sleeping without a satin scarf ruins locs within weeks. Moisturizing your scalp regularly keeps everything fresh longer.

How Faux Locs Are Installed?

Two main methods exist for installing faux locs. Each one works differently and takes different amounts of time. Your choice depends on your patience and budget.

• Braid-in method: Individual box braids form the foundation for each loc. Synthetic hair gets wrapped around every single braid, taking 6 to 8 hours to complete.
• Crochet method: Your stylist braids your hair into cornrows first. Then, premade locs get crocheted into those cornrows in just 2 to 4 hours.
• Time vs. durability: Braid-in locs last longer but require serious chair time. Crochet installs are faster and easier to remove when you’re ready.

How to Maintain Faux Locs for Maximum Wear Time?

Good maintenance keeps your faux locs looking fresh for weeks. Skip these steps, and your style falls apart fast. I’m giving you the essentials that actually work.

• Nighttime protection: Wrap your locs in a satin or silk scarf before bed. Cotton pillowcases create friction that leads to frizz and dryness.
• Scalp hydration: Use lightweight oils or serums on your scalp every few days. This prevents itching and keeps your roots comfortable under the locs.
• Frizz control: Apply light mousse to smooth flyaways when they appear. Heavy creams and waxes create buildup that weighs down your style.
• Smart cleansing: Dilute shampoo with water and focus on your scalp only. The synthetic hair dries quickly, so don’t worry about washing when needed.
• Gentle handling: Avoid constantly touching and manipulating your locs. The less you mess with them, the longer they stay neat and intact.

Signs It’s Time to Remove Faux Locs

Your locs will tell you when they’re done. Pay attention to these warning signs. Ignoring them means risking damage to your natural hair.

• Excessive frizz: When your locs look more fuzzy than neat, time’s up. Slippage at the roots means the extensions are losing their grip.
• Scalp discomfort: Persistent itching or tightness isn’t normal after the first week. That extra weight from hair growth puts strain on your edges and roots.
• Matting underneath: Feel around your roots for tangles or knots forming. Your natural hair starting to lock together is a red flag you can’t ignore.

Cost Considerations and Longevity

Faux locs require an upfront investment. The price varies based on what you want and where you go. Let me break down what you’ll actually pay.

Average Price Range

Most people spend $150 to $500 for faux locs. That’s a wide range, I know. Your final cost depends on several factors I’ll explain below.

Think about it this way. You’re paying for 4 to 8 weeks of a complete hairstyle. No daily styling needed. When you divide the cost by weeks worn, it’s actually budget-friendly compared to frequent salon visits.

What Influences Cost

Your choices directly affect the price. Longer locs cost more than shorter ones. Thinner locs take more time to install. The hair quality matters too.

Get quotes from multiple stylists before booking. Ask to see their previous faux loc work. Cheap isn’t always better when your hair’s health is on the line.

Conclusion

So, how long do faux locs last? With proper care and maintenance, you can expect them to look gorgeous for 4 to 8 weeks. The key is treating them gently, keeping your scalp moisturized, and protecting them while you sleep.

Remember, the longevity of your faux locs depends on your installation method, hair texture, and how well you maintain them. Don’t stress if you notice some frizz after a few weeks. That’s completely normal and part of the process.

Now you’re ready to rock your faux locs with confidence! Have questions or tips of your own? Drop a comment below, we’d love to hear about your experience. And if you found this helpful, share it with someone who’s considering faux locs for the first time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do faux locs last on average?

Faux locs typically last 4 to 8 weeks with proper maintenance. Individual crochet faux locs may last 6-8 weeks, while wrapped styles usually last 4-6 weeks. The exact duration depends on your installation method, hair texture, activity level, and how well you care for them daily.

What factors affect how long faux locs last? 

Installation technique, hair texture, maintenance routine, and lifestyle habits all impact longevity. Tight, professional installations last longer than loose ones. Moisturizing your scalp, sleeping with a satin bonnet, and avoiding excessive manipulation help extend their lifespan. Swimming and heavy sweating can shorten their duration.

How do I know when it’s time to remove my faux locs? 

Remove faux locs when you notice excessive frizzing, significant new growth at the roots (usually after 6-8 weeks), slipping, unraveling, or if your scalp feels itchy or uncomfortable. Never keep them longer than 8 weeks to avoid matting and potential hair damage.

Can I make my faux locs last longer than 8 weeks? 

It’s not recommended. Keeping faux locs beyond 8 weeks can cause matting, tangling, buildup, and potential damage to your natural hair. Your new growth also makes them look unkempt. For healthy hair, remove and reinstall fresh locs or give your hair a break between styles.

Do different faux loc styles last different amounts of time?

Yes. Crochet faux locs typically last 6-8 weeks because they’re more secure. Wrapped or twisted styles last 4-6 weeks as they loosen faster. Distressed or bohemian locs may frizz sooner but maintain their intentionally messy aesthetic, while neat styles show wear more obviously.