Butterfly locs are simply another variant of faux locs that are braided using wavy hair. In this article, we’ll take a look at everything you need to know about butterfly locs. We’ll cover things such as how to butterfly locs, type of hair used for butterfly locs, how long they last, how long butterfly locs take, how to seal butterfly locs, how to refresh butterfly locs and 80 butterfly locs hairstyles.
What are butterfly locs?
Butterfly locs are a variant of faux locs achieved using the crotchet method where wavy hair is looped into a braid using a crotchet needle and then loosely wrapped to give it a distressed/unraveled look.
Hair types for butterfly locs
Any type of wavy hair such as freetress water wave braiding hair can be used for butterfly locs. Depending on your desired length and volume, you’ll need 7 to 8 packs.
Duration and timing
Butterfly locs can last for 2 to 3 months or more with proper maintenance in place. Short to mid back butterfly locs take 3 to 5 hours and extra long butterfly locs can take up to 7 hours.
Best Beginner Butterfly Loc Tutorial| 3 Methods Ft Leeven Hair
Cost and DIY considerations
Butterfly locs range from $180 to $300 if you want an extended length. If you decide to DIY them, $100 will be enough for the complete look.
Sealing butterfly locs
To seal the ends of your butterfly locs, you can use two methods. In the first method, after getting to your desired length, use some of the hair to tie the loc in a knot and keep wrapping the hair that’s left back up on the loc until you have no more hair to work with. In the second method, after getting to your desired length, use nail glue or the got2b freeze spray on the ends and then wrap the hair that’s left around the glued ends. Regardless of the method you’ll choose, make sure you are thorough. You don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars getting your hair done just to have them unravel a week later.
How to refresh butterfly locs
If you’ve had your butterfly locs in for 2 to 3 months or less, giving them a refresh will make them look new again and buy you 1 to 2 more months before you have to take them out. To refresh your butterfly locs, start by washing your hair. As we always say, your natural hair care shouldn’t stop when you get a protective style. After washing, conditioning, drying your locs and oiling your scalp, it’s time to start the refresh process. Take your shine n jam and apply it on your roots where the new growth is. Use a comb to lightly pull away any fly aways and secure all the coated new growth on the roots. Use the same hair you had initially used on your locs and wrap it 3 to 4 times on the roots after which you’ll loosen your grip and start wrapping it lightly over the locs. Repeat the same method all over your head and style your butterfly locs as desired.
Best Beginner Butterfly Loc Tutorial| 3 Methods Ft Leeven Hair
Maintenance tips
Butterfly locs already have a distressed look hence they don’t require a lot of maintenance other than the usual. Wrap your hair in a silk scarf or bonnet at night to keep it from tangling. Use an anti itch oil if your scalp gets itchy after some time. If you don’t want to wash your hair, you can use a dry shampoo to clean your scalp from time to time or an apple cider vinegar hair rinse. Use a braids spray and preferred oil of your choice or mousse to keep them looking vibrant.
80 butterfly locs hairstyles
Thinking of getting butterfly locs? We put together 80 butterfly locs hairstyles for you to choose from. From long butterfly locs to short butterfly locs and mixed color butterfly locs. Yes? Give peekaboo styles a try.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Hair required | 7-8 packs of wavy hair |
| Lifespan | 2-3+ months with maintenance |
| Time to install | 3-5 hours (short to mid back); up to 7 hours (extra long) |
| Sealing options | Knot method or glue/spray method |