Whether you’re braiding, twisting, or locking, there’s no denying how important protective styles are. Not only do protective styles keep your hair healthy, they also prevent breakage and promote hair growth. If you’re looking for a new protective style that will make a statement, why not try butterfly locs? If you’re looking for something stylish and boho, protective styles will make you stand out.
Although similar to regular locs, butterfly locs differ in that they offer a more lived-in version of their signature look and are created either by crocheting or braiding. This style has been seen on countless celebrities including Zendaya, Teyana Taylor, and Ciara. Not only are these locs lightweight and affordable, they’re also extremely versatile and can be styled in a variety of ways.
Celebrity natural hairstylists Sandy-Kay Henry and Antoine McCants give us expert tips on how to create and care for your bohemian style. Read everything you need to know about installing, maintaining, and removing butterfly locks.
featured experts
- Sandy Kay Henry is a natural hairstylist
- Antoine McCants is a makeup artist and hairstylist
What is a butterfly lock?
Butterfly locs are a faux locs hairstyle that is also a protective style with an “undone” look. While regular locs are usually straight and smooth, butterfly locs have “waves” that make them look more distressed and lived-in than traditional locs, giving them a signature boho vibe. Butterfly locs are achieved by crocheting wavy hair into cornrows or by using a braiding method where natural hair is braided and wavy hair is wrapped around it to create faux locs.
“Butterfly locks are characterized as a natural style where ‘neatness is not the only way to express beauty.’ Natural style has always been a hot topic in the industry, and butterfly locks are The diversity of our products has created a sensation,” explains McCants. Butterfly locks are quirkier and, as the name suggests, more playful.
How to install butterfly lock
Butterfly locs are achieved by adding wavy hair to your natural hair or braids. “It’s always best to have a professional install and remove the style,” explains Henry. If you’re a seasoned stylist looking to create a signature look at home, watch a few videos before you try, and make sure your hair is freshly washed and dry before styling. There are two different ways to install butterfly locs: either braid the faux locs into your braided hair or braid your hair under and use a wrapping motion to create the signature look. When in doubt, consult with a stylist who has experience creating faux locs.
How long does Butterfly Rocks take??
“A butterfly locate can take 4 hours or more. Many factors affect the time, including: the speed of the stylist/braider, the desired size/length, whether the stylist has an assistant (double team), Things like whether your natural hair is really long and thick. These are just a few of the many factors,” says Henry. The key to minimizing hair breakage and breakage is to go slow. I don’t want to rush to let my hair down.
How to maintain butterfly locks
Butterfly locks are a protective hairstyle, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind to keep your hair in tip-top condition and your locks looking fresh. Using a cleansing shampoo once a week will help keep your hair in top condition. Wearing a bonnet while sleeping is essential to reduce chafing and unwanted frizz. “Try not to add too much edge tamer/foam to minimize build-up. Keep it simple. Wake up, take off your hood, shake your hair, spray some brightener, and you’re on your way.” says Henry. Although butterfly locks are very versatile, it is important not to wear a style that is too tight. “We know you like a tight ponytail, but try not to pull your hair too hard when styling it. Make sure the style is comfortable. Use oil on your scalp two to three times a week. Make sure to moisturize your scalp to prevent itchy scalp and promote healthy hair growth,” says McCants.
How do you know when it’s time to put down Butterfly Rocks?
Butterfly locs usually last for four weeks or more, but if your scalp becomes irritated or the style simply becomes uncomfortable, it’s time to call it quits. To remove butterfly locs, snip the ends of the locks to loosen the hair and remove them carefully and slowly, being careful not to uproot your natural hair.
butterfly rock inspiration
