Butterfly Locs Hairstyles in 2024 with Comprehensive Guide

Butterfly locs are a popular protective hairstyle that has taken the beauty world by storm. Defined by their unique, textured, and slightly messy appearance, butterfly locs offer a stylish yet natural look. This distressed style, a fusion of faux locs and passion twists, creates a voluminous and free-spirited vibe. Rising in popularity, particularly among women of color, butterfly locs are known for their ability to protect natural hair while providing versatility and creativity in styling.

Butterfly Locs vs Traditional Locs:-

While both butterfly locs and traditional faux locs are protective styles, they differ in appearance and technique. Traditional faux locs have a sleek, polished look, while butterfly locs are more distressed with loops that resemble the fluttering wings of a butterfly, hence the name. This gives butterfly locs a more carefree and natural aesthetic compared to the smooth finish of regular locs.

Types of Butterfly Locs:-

Butterfly Locs Hairpiece:

The type of hair used is crucial in achieving the perfect butterfly locs. Most commonly, synthetic hair such as water wave or kinky hair is used to create the signature loops and textured effect. Hairpieces that blend with your natural hair color and texture are recommended to ensure a seamless look.

Butterfly Locs Hairpiece

Butterfly Locs Hair:

Different hair textures can be used for butterfly locs, with water wave and kinky hair being the most popular options. These hair types allow the loops to form more naturally and give the locs their signature texture. The choice of hair depends on the desired look – soft and bouncy or more defined and structured.

Butterfly Locs Hair

Butterfly Locs Crochet:

Crochet butterfly locs are installed using a pre-made loc attached to your natural hair with a crochet hook. This method saves time and effort, making it ideal for those who want quick and lightweight locs. The crochet method can also offer a more uniform look, depending on the quality of the pre-made locs.

Butterfly Locs Crochet

Butterfly Locs with Kinky Hair:

For a fuller and more textured appearance, using kinky hair in your butterfly locs is a great option. Kinky hair adds volume and a more natural, afro-textured look to the style. The added texture can also help the locs stay in place for longer, reducing the need for constant re-twisting.

Butterfly Locs with Kinky Hair

Butterfly Locs Styles:-

Short Butterfly Locs:

Short butterfly locs are a chic and manageable option for those who prefer a lower-maintenance style. They typically fall around shoulder length or higher, making them ideal for those with active lifestyles. Short locs are perfect for summer, as they are light and easy to style.

Short Butterfly Locs

Long Butterfly Locs:

For a dramatic and glamorous look, long butterfly locs can be worn down the back or styled in various ways. Long locs offer more versatility in terms of styling, allowing for intricate updos, buns, and ponytails. However, they require more care and can be heavier, making proper maintenance essential.

Long Butterfly Locs

Butterfly Locs Braids:

Combining braids with butterfly locs adds an extra dimension to the style. You can incorporate cornrows or box braids at the base of your butterfly locs for a unique look. This adds more structure to the style and provides even more versatility in how the locs can be worn.

Butterfly Locs Braids

Butterfly Locs Crochet Styles:

With crochet butterfly locs, you can choose from various pre-made loc styles that can vary in texture, length, and volume. These crochet styles come in both short and long variations, allowing for quick installation without sacrificing style. Popular crochet styles include loose, flowing locs or tightly packed, bohemian-inspired locs.

Butterfly Locs Crochet Styles

How to Install Butterfly Locs:-

Step-by-Step Guide:-

To install butterfly locs at home, follow these steps:

  1. Part your hair into sections, braiding each section into box braids or twists.
  2. Use a crochet needle to loop water wave or kinky hair through each braid.
  3. Wrap the synthetic hair around the braid in a distressed manner, creating loops along the way.
  4. Repeat for all sections, ensuring consistency in texture and size.

Installation Techniques:-

You can choose between the hand-wrapping method or the crochet method. Hand-wrapping involves manually wrapping each section with synthetic hair, while the crochet method involves pre-made locs. Both techniques create beautiful results, but the crochet method tends to be faster.

Professional Installation:-

If you’re not comfortable doing butterfly locs yourself, many salons offer professional installation. A quick search for “Butterfly Locs Near Me” can help you find local stylists who specialize in this style. Professionals ensure neat, long-lasting locs, often providing additional care tips.

Maintenance and Care:-

Daily and Weekly Care Routine

Keep your scalp moisturized and clean by applying lightweight oils and using a dry shampoo between washes. To prevent frizz, use a silk scarf or bonnet when sleeping, and avoid excess water exposure.

Tips for Sleeping with Butterfly Locs

Wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf or use a bonnet to keep the locs in place while sleeping. This reduces friction, preventing frizz and keeping the locs fresh.

How to Remove Butterfly Locs

To safely remove butterfly locs, carefully cut the synthetic hair above the base of the braid, then gently unravel the loc from your natural hair. Avoid pulling to prevent damage to your natural hair.

Pros and Cons of Butterfly Locs:-

Advantages of Butterfly Locs:

  • Low-maintenance, protective style.
  • Unique, textured look that stands out.
  • Versatile in terms of styling options.

Disadvantages of Butterfly Locs:

  • Can cause scalp tension if installed too tightly.
  • Time-consuming to install and remove.

Popular Brands and Products:-

Several brands offer high-quality hair for butterfly locs, including Freetress, Outre, and Lulutress. For maintenance, use lightweight oils and moisturizing sprays like Mielle Organics and Taliah Waajid to keep your scalp healthy and locs fresh.

Trending Styles in 2024:-

2024 brings new trends to butterfly locs, with more women experimenting with bold colors like auburn, burgundy, and blonde. Long butterfly locs with waist-length and bohemian-style locs are gaining popularity, as are multi-colored and highlighted locs.

Butterfly Locs for Different Hair Types:-

Whether your hair is curly, kinky, or straight, butterfly locs can be tailored to suit your hair type. Curly and kinky textures often hold the locs better, while straight hair may require additional products for grip. Butterfly locs work best with medium to thick hair for maximum volume.

FAQ’s about Butterfly Locs:

How long do butterfly locs usually last?

Butterfly locs typically last 4 to 8 weeks, depending on maintenance and care. Regularly moisturizing and protecting the style at night can help extend its lifespan.

What hair is needed for butterfly locs?

For butterfly locs, the most commonly used hair types are water wave or kinky hair. These textures allow for the signature loops and distressed look. Brands like Freetress, Outre, and Lulutress offer suitable options.

What is the difference between faux locs and butterfly locs?

The primary difference between faux locs and butterfly locs lies in their appearance and texture. Faux locs are usually sleek and uniform, while butterfly locs have a more textured, distressed look with loops that resemble butterfly wings, giving them a more bohemian and natural aesthetic.

What are the cons of butterfly locs?

Some cons of butterfly locs include:

  • Scalp tension: If installed too tightly, they can cause discomfort and tension on the scalp.
  • Installation time: The process can be time-consuming, taking several hours to complete.
  • Weight: Depending on the length and volume, butterfly locs can feel heavy.
  • Frizz: They may require regular maintenance to avoid frizz, especially towards the end of their lifespan.

Do you need fake hair for butterfly locs?

Yes, fake hair is typically required for butterfly locs. Synthetic hair is used to create the locs and achieve the desired texture and volume. However, some individuals may opt for human hair for a more natural look.

Which faux locs look more natural?

Soft, distressed faux locs with a textured finish tend to look more natural. These styles often incorporate different hair textures, such as wavy or kinky hair, to mimic the appearance of natural hair. Butterfly locs are an example of this style.

How many strands of butterfly locs for a full head?

For a full head of butterfly locs, you typically need about 6 to 10 packs of hair, depending on the desired volume and length. This can vary based on the size of the sections and the individual’s head size.

How much do butterfly locs cost?

The cost of butterfly locs can vary significantly based on factors such as location, stylist experience, and whether you choose DIY or professional installation. On average, the price ranges from $150 to $300 for professional installation. DIY methods will primarily cost you the price of the hair, which can range from $30 to $100, depending on the hair quality and quantity used.

Conclusion:-

Butterfly locs are a trendy, protective hairstyle that combines beauty, versatility, and practicality. Whether you prefer short, long, or crochet locs, this style allows for endless creativity and offers numerous styling options. With proper care, butterfly locs can last weeks while giving you a unique, head-turning look.

Leave a Comment