Butterfly locs are a stunning and popular variation of faux locs, known for their unique and intricate appearance. This stylish and versatile hairstyle involves wrapping hair extensions around small sections of your natural hair, creating a beautiful texture reminiscent of the wings of a butterfly. Butterfly locs have quickly become a favorite among individuals seeking a trendy and eye-catching look that still maintains a sense of elegance and grace. Get 25+ Most Popular Butterfly Locs Hairstyle Ideas 2024 from here.
The process of creating butterfly locs involves using a specialized wrapping technique that results in locs that are thinner at the roots and gradually thicken toward the ends, resembling the shape of butterfly wings. This contrast in size adds dimension and visual interest to the overall hairstyle.
Read more: Natural Hairstyles for Black Women
What are butterfly locs?
The faux locs known as butterfly locs have become increasingly popular due to their distinctive and detailed appearance. Butterfly locs are suitable for all hair types and can be customized to suit different lengths and thicknesses. They offer a unique and eye-catching appearance that blends elegance with a touch of bohemian flair, making them an excellent choice for various occasions and personal styles.
What type of hair is suitable for butterfly locs?
Butterfly locs may be applied with any form of wavy hair, including freetress water wave braiding hair. You’ll need 7 to 8 packs, depending on the volume and length you want.
How long do butterfly locs last?
The usage of different hair types, the technique of installation, your hair care regimen, and your lifestyle can all affect how long butterfly locs last. Butterfly locs may often last 8 to 16 weeks, and with the right maintenance, they can even stay longer.
How much is the cost for butterfly locs?
The price of receiving butterfly locs can vary based on a number of variables, such as the region, the salon or stylist you select, the stylist’s level of skill, the length and thickness of the locs, and the type of hair utilized. In general, butterfly locs can cost anywhere from $180 to $300 or more. But if you do the job through a DIY process, it’s probably covered under $100.
How do you do butterfly locs: Full process
The wrapping method used to create butterfly locs results in a textured and distinctive appearance. Here is a broad explanation of how to create butterfly locs:
- Begin with tidy, dry hair. Before beginning, you could decide to wash and condition your natural hair.
- Section off your hair into manageable little pieces. To keep the parts apart, use rubber bands or hair clips.
- Divide a chunk of your natural hair into two equal pieces. Making a little loop at the top, sandwich the folded end of the hair extension between the two portions of your natural hair.
- Starting from the looped end and working your way toward the tips of your hair, start wrapping the hair extension around the two parts of your natural hair. To make the loc, wrap neatly and firmly. For each region of hair, repeat this procedure until your entire head is covered.
- Carefully dip the ends of the locs into hot water or use a hair dryer to apply heat to the wrapped area. Be cautious not to burn yourself in the process.
- Once all the butterfly locs are in place, you can style them according to your preference. You can leave them as they are, or try various updos, braids, or other hairstyles with your locs.
- Instead of wrapping the hair extensions around your natural hair, you can use the crochet method.
25+ Most Popular Butterfly Locs Hairstyle Ideas
Here are 25+ butterfly locs hairstyles to inspire you:
1. Butterfly Faux
If you want elegance and fiery ideas, try this red hairstyle and flaunt your butterfly locs. Show off your daring side and appreciation of eccentric and theatrical attire to the world. Warning: red is a high-maintenance color that not everyone should play with. If you enjoy warm, fall-inspired colors, then take pleasure in it.
2. Butterfly Locs Ponytail
Women who enjoy showcasing their personal style through their hair will adore this lovely long loose ponytail with butterfly locs. Younger women and teenagers will benefit from this concept and idea. Typically, this attractiveness will appeal to ladies in their twenties or teens. Display your sensual side while also enjoying the usefulness of these butterfly locs.
3. Long Butterfly Locs
Keep the blonde hue and tie your hair up in the back. This will look fantastic on you if you enjoy showy fashion and you prefer yellow undertones. To show off the beauty and benefit from its durability, secure it in the back with your preferred hair ties and elastics.
4. Modern Red Hair Locs
Display your adorable red hair with fiery locs! Women in their twenties will love the final product. Try it out with this look if you like classic styles and know how to display your feminine, graceful side. Use a curling cream or curl foam to show off this vintage notion because it will look beautiful once left this voluminous.
5. Black & White locs
Not everyone has the guts to dye their hair in this manner. This is for you if you enjoy elegance and a well-balanced appearance. These locs will look best on women with naturally long, thick hair. Make care to regularly color them and touch them up. The finished product will have a vintage, festive appearance. Be aware that this look requires a lot of upkeep.
6. Dramatic Long Ponytail
Younger women who require a decent hairstyle can benefit greatly from tight and secure braids. If you want a lengthier appearance that you can wear wherever and anytime, stick to this if you require a party-ready outfit. To keep your hair in place all day, use a lot of hairspray.
7. Black & red butterfly locs
Black and red locs create a striking and bold hairstyle that combines the classic elegance of black locs with the vibrant and eye-catching appeal of red color accents. The black and red color combination adds a unique and dramatic touch to the butterfly locs, making them stand out in any crowd.
8. Blonde bob butterfly locs
Blonde bob locs create a chic and stylish look that combines the elegance of a bob hairstyle with the unique texture of butterfly locs and the bright and vibrant appeal of blonde hair. This hairstyle is a perfect choice for anyone looking to make a bold statement with their hair.
9. Black & blue butterfly locs
Black and blue locs create a captivating and edgy hairstyle that combines the classic elegance of black locs with the cool and vibrant appeal of blue color accents. This hairstyle is an excellent choice for those looking to make a bold and unique statement with their hair.
10. Maroon butterfly locs
Maroon butterfly locs create a rich and sophisticated hairstyle that combines the elegance of butterfly locs with the deep and luxurious appeal of maroon color accents. This hairstyle is a great choice for those looking to add a touch of warmth and intensity to their look.
11. Mid length butterfly locs
Mid-length locs are a stylish and versatile option for those who prefer a medium-length hairstyle with the unique texture and appearance of butterfly locs. These locs offer a perfect balance between long and short styles, providing various styling possibilities while still being relatively low-maintenance.
12. Dark brown butterfly locs
Dark brown locs create a natural and classic hairstyle that combines the elegance of butterfly locs with the timeless appeal of dark brown hair. This hair color is versatile and complements various skin tones, making it a popular choice for many individuals.
13. Grey butterfly locs
This can create a chic and trendy hairstyle that combines the unique texture of butterfly locs with the modern and sophisticated appeal of grey hair. This stylish hair color has become increasingly popular in recent years and is often associated with confidence and elegance.
14. Distressed butterfly locs
These locs offer a more textured and rugged look. Instead of the smooth and uniform appearance of regular butterfly locs, distressed butterfly locs have a more undone and bohemian vibe, with frayed ends and a slightly messy texture. This style is perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed and effortlessly chic look.
15. Long mixed colors butterfly locs
This vibrant hairstyle combines the elegance of butterfly locs with the eye-catching appeal of multiple colors. This style allows you to express your creativity and personality through a mix of different colored hair extensions. This hair style allows you to stand out and make a statement with your hair.
16. Updo Bun With Sticks
How about this stylish samurai appearance? Your bun can be shown with some chic chopstick accents. This design will appeal especially to women in their twenties. This is a must-do if you love updos and want to try one with a hip bun idea and butterfly locs.
17. Black Hairdo Half Up Look
If you prefer simpler appearances and something that won’t get in the way during the day, wear your hair in a bun. Women with naturally thick, coarse, and curly hair would look good in this hairstyle. When wearing this style for day or night, be sure to secure it with a lot of bobby pins. This beauty is for you if you enjoy classic, voluminous, and iconic looks.
18. Icy Hairdo locs
These days, icy blonde and silver-toned hairstyles and appearances are pretty fashionable. Try this out if you prefer to change up your appearance every month and you’re not afraid to wear vibrant or daring colors. It is a time-consuming but attractive style that will suit teens or those who want a change with their dark brown hair the best.
19. Straight & Sleek locs
Make a braid out of your hair and pull it all the way back. Secure all of your butterfly locs in the back once you’ve achieved this sophisticated style. The finished product can be useful for your nighttime outings, but you can also dress it up with a nice outfit and go to the gym in a laid-back manner. The choice is entirely yours.
20. Black & Yellow Braided locs
Include black, brown, and blonde highlights in your style. This result will appeal to women who like a variety of hues and color combinations. If you have the time and patience to maintain, color, or touch up your appearance, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of this butterfly loc.
21. Box Braids With Butterfly Locs
Teens are already aware of how eye-catching and well-liked this cut can be. We are confident that you will like something comparable if your ideas are wild and wacky. Show off your adorable and vintage side while being aware that this loc hairstyle doesn’t require much maintenance.
22. Half Part Hairdo
Wear your hair on the sides with a little volume added. This hairstyle merely serves to demonstrate that you may wear your butterfly locs in a formal setting. Wear it to experience its full elegance for your large and crucial days or meetings. Set the hair in place with a ton of hairspray.
23. Purple & Black Combo locs
Women who prefer flamboyant and daring appearances will look stunning with auburn or burgundy hair hues. Want the most beautiful hair and to draw attention wherever you go? You can enjoy your new lavish look while on the road with this kind of butterfly locs and color combination!
24. Short Natural Butterfly Locs
This will look nice on you if you have naturally beautiful skin and enjoy shorter hairstyles and fashions. Due to its understated and easy-care nature, this style is preferred by most women. Wear your hair in this loose loc style to flaunt your sense of style. You won’t need to cut it all that frequently either.
25. Space Buns locs
Space buns or pigtail buns are extremely fashionable, feminine, and popular right now! Why not give this beauty a shot if you’re in the mood for something hip and distinctive? For any formal or casual occasion, you can wear your space buns. Be aware that it takes more time than some other solutions to achieve this look.
26. Half-Up Half-Down Butterfly Loc
Women who have naturally lovely, curly hair would appreciate this result. If you want a chic, current appearance that is suitable for a party, you could copy this one. Make sure you take advantage of this chic and whimsical notion by sporting an updo bun. This butterfly loc is great for women in their twenties and those who want to play around with their appearance.
27. Bright Red Curly Look
For ladies who prefer to flaunt their looks, red hair is hot. Does this describe who you are? If so, try it out using this cut! Longer hair is for individuals who are impatient to show off their personal style. At all times, demonstrate to everyone your willingness to take a chance and flaunt your skills. The outcome is ideal for graceful and feminine beauties.
28. Straight Hair Thick Braids locs
This hairstyle will simultaneously seem beautiful and feminine. Show off this color combination and wear your locs wherever you like. To preserve and appreciate this design, red will require some effort and upkeep. Be sure you are able to recolor it or touch it up here and then.
How can you seal butterfly locs?
Sealing butterfly locs is an important step to prevent them from unraveling and keep them secure. Sealing can be done using hot water or a hairdryer. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to seal butterfly locs:
- Heat water until it’s hot but not boiling. Pour the hot water into a bowl or use a kettle to have it ready for the sealing process.
- If your butterfly locs are too long or thick to work with all at once, you can divide them into smaller sections using hair clips. This will make the sealing process more manageable.
- Take one section of the butterfly loc and hold it firmly near the ends. Dip the tip of the loc into the hot water, making sure to immerse only the wrapped area. Avoid getting the water on the rest of the loc or your natural hair.
- Quickly remove the loc from the water and squeeze any excess water out of the wrapped area with a towel or paper towel. Be careful not to burn yourself.
- While the loc is still warm and pliable, shape the end by rolling it gently between your palms. This helps to create a neat and rounded tip.
- Continue the process for each section of the butterfly locs until all of them are sealed.
How to refresh butterfly locs
Start by cleaning your hair before refreshing your butterfly locs. As we frequently advise, maintaining your natural hair shouldn’t end once you adopt a protective style. It’s time to begin the refresh process after washing, conditioning, drying, and lubricating your scalp.
Apply your shine n jam to your roots, where new growth has appeared. Secure all of the coated new growth on the roots and use a comb to gently pick away any flyaways. Use the same hair you used to create your locs and wrap it around the roots three to four times before letting go and wrapping it softly over the locs.
Maintenance tips for butterfly locs
Butterfly locs must be maintained in order to look clean, tidy, and healthy. Here are some upkeep hints to assist you in maintaining your butterfly locs:
- To prevent tangling, cover your hair with a silk scarf or hat at night.
- If your scalp becomes itchy after some time, use an anti-itch oil.
- If you don’t want to wash your hair, you can occasionally rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar or use a dry shampoo to clean your scalp.
- To keep your braids vivid, spritz them with your favourite oil or mousse.
- To give your locs a vacation from regular manipulation and styling, think about wearing protective styles on occasion.
- To keep your butterfly locs looking good and maintaining their health, make routine sessions with a licensed loctician.
Butterfly locs mistakes you should avoid:
When attempting to create butterfly locs, there are some common mistakes that you should avoid to ensure a successful and satisfying outcome. Here are some key mistakes to watch out for:
- Installing butterfly locs too tightly can cause unnecessary tension on your scalp and natural hair, leading to discomfort, breakage, or even hair loss. Make sure your stylist uses a gentle touch during installation.
- Neglecting to moisturize your natural hair and scalp while wearing butterfly locs can result in dryness and brittleness. Regularly apply a lightweight oil or moisturizing spray to keep your hair hydrated.
- Proper maintenance is crucial for the longevity and health of your butterfly locs. Avoid leaving them in for too long without any adjustments or touch-ups.
- Using heavy hair products or excessive amounts of products can lead to product buildup and make your butterfly locs feel stiff or greasy. Stick to lightweight products designed for locs.
- Before getting butterfly locs, consult with a professional stylist who specializes in this hairstyle. They can guide you on the best approach for your hair type and offer recommendations for maintenance.
- Using low-quality or inappropriate synthetic hair for the extensions can result in stiff or unnatural-looking locs. Choose good quality braiding hair designed for butterfly locs.
- Unevenly divided sections can lead to inconsistent and messy-looking butterfly locs. Take the time to ensure each section is even and properly separated.
- Butterfly locs may put some strain on your edges. Be gentle around this area and avoid tight hairstyles that could cause tension.
- While hair jewelry and decorative accessories can enhance the look of butterfly locs, using too many or heavy accessories may cause stress on the locs or damage them.
- If you experience significant pain, tightness, or discomfort during or after the installation of butterfly locs, don’t ignore it. Communicate with your stylist and address any concerns promptly.
FAQs
How long do butterfly locs take?
Several variables, including hair length, hair texture, and the installer’s experience, might affect how long it takes to install butterfly locs. On average, butterfly locs can take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours to complete.
Do butterfly locs hurt?
Butterfly locs should not be painful when properly installed and maintained. However, like any hairstyle involving tension on the scalp, there can be some discomfort during the installation process, especially if the stylist pulls the hair too tightly.
How do you do butterfly locs on short hair?
Creating butterfly locs on short hair can be challenging but is still possible with a few modifications to the traditional technique.
Are butterfly locs a protective style?
Yes, butterfly locs can be considered a protective hairstyle. Protective styles are hairstyles that help to protect your natural hair by minimizing manipulation, reducing exposure to elements, and promoting hair growth.
Do butterfly locs tangle?
Like most hairstyles involving braids or locs, butterfly locs can potentially tangle if not properly maintained. Tangling can occur when hair sheds or when the locs rub against clothing or other surfaces, causing the strands to interlock.
Does butterfly locs pull your hair out?
When installed and maintained properly, butterfly locs should not cause significant hair loss or damage. However, any hairstyle that involves tension, including butterfly locs, can potentially cause hair breakage or damage if not handled carefully or if left in for an extended period.
Why are my butterfly locs so stiff?
If you’ve recently gotten your butterfly locs installed, they may feel stiff initially due to the synthetic hair used for the extensions. Over time, as the hair loosens up and becomes more natural, the stiffness should diminish.
Do butterfly locs grow your hair?
Butterfly locs themselves do not directly promote hair growth, as they are a protective hairstyle that doesn’t involve any special ingredients or treatments to encourage hair growth. However, they can indirectly contribute to healthier hair, which may lead to better hair growth.
Are butterfly locs expensive?
The cost of receiving butterfly locs might vary depending on a number of variables, including as where you live, the hairstylist’s experience and skill level, and the length and thickness of your hair, and the type of extensions used. It’s essential to do some research and consider consulting with different stylists to get price estimates for butterfly locs in your area.
Can butterfly locs get wet?
Butterfly locs, like other forms of faux locs, can get wet. However, it’s essential to be cautious about excessive exposure to water to maintain the longevity and appearance of your hairstyle.
Is it OK to swim with butterfly locs?
Yes, you can swim with butterfly locs, but it’s important to take some precautions to protect your locs and your natural hair while in the water. Consider wearing a swim cap to protect your butterfly locs from direct contact with pool water or seawater.
Are butterfly locs easy to maintain?
Compared to some other hairstyles, butterfly locs can be relatively easy to maintain. However, like any hairstyle, proper care and attention are essential to ensure they stay looking fresh and well-groomed.
How many butterfly locs for a full head?
The number of butterfly locs needed for a full head can vary depending on several factors, including the thickness of your natural hair, the desired size of the locs, and the overall volume you want to achieve. On average, it is common to use anywhere from 80 to 120 butterfly locs for a full head installation.
Conclusion
One of the reasons for the popularity of butterfly locs is their versatility. You can customize this hairstyle to suit your personal style, whether you prefer a long, flowing look or a chic and manageable bob. Additionally, you have the option to add various accessories such as beads, cuffs, and wraps, allowing you to express your creativity and make the style truly your own.
Butterfly locs can be worn in a range of hairstyles, from casual and bohemian to elegant and formal. Whether you’re attending a music festival, a night out with friends, or a special occasion, butterfly locs are sure to turn heads and make a lasting impression.