Butterfly locs, a popular and stylish protective hairstyle, combine the best of bohemian vibes with the elegance of traditional locs. Their unique, distressed appearance provides a natural, carefree look while offering the protective benefits of a low-maintenance style. Proper care is essential to keep your butterfly locs looking fresh and healthy. In this article, we’ll explore detailed steps and tips on how to care for butterfly locs, ensuring they remain beautiful and well-maintained throughout their wear.
Understanding Butterfly Locs
Before diving into the care routine, it’s crucial to understand what butterfly locs are and how they differ from other loc styles. Butterfly locs are created using a crochet method with wavy hair extensions, resulting in a textured, fluffy look. The ends are typically left curly, giving the style a butterfly-like appearance. This style is versatile, offering various lengths and thicknesses, making it suitable for different preferences and hair types.
Prepping Your Hair for Butterfly Locs
Cleanse and Condition
Before installing butterfly locs, ensure your natural hair is clean and well-conditioned. Use a sulfate-free shampoo to remove any buildup and follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to hydrate your strands. Deep conditioning is also recommended to provide extra nourishment.
Stretch and Detangle
Stretch your hair to reduce tangling and make the installation process smoother. You can achieve this by blow-drying on a low heat setting or using a heatless stretching method such as banding or braiding. Detangle your hair thoroughly using a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush to prevent knots and tangles during installation.
Moisturize and Protect
Apply a leave-in conditioner or a moisturizing cream to keep your hair hydrated. Seal in the moisture with a natural oil like coconut oil, olive oil, or jojoba oil. Additionally, consider applying a scalp treatment to keep your scalp healthy and nourished throughout the installation period.
Installing Butterfly Locs
Choose the Right Hair Extensions
Selecting the appropriate hair extensions is crucial for achieving the desired butterfly locs look. Opt for wavy or curly synthetic hair extensions, as these textures mimic the natural appearance of butterfly locs. Brands like Freetress, Outre, and Bobbi Boss offer suitable options.
Section and Braid
Part your hair into sections based on the desired loc size. Create small to medium-sized box braids or twists using your natural hair. Secure each braid or twist with a small rubber band at the base to keep it in place.
Crochet the Extensions
Using a crochet needle, insert the needle under the base of the braid or twist. Attach the hair extension to the needle and pull it through the base, creating a loop. Pull the ends of the extension through the loop and tighten to secure it. Repeat this process for each section.
Wrap and Secure
Take a piece of the hair extension and wrap it around the base of the braid or twist, covering it completely. Continue wrapping until you reach the desired length of the loc. Secure the end by tucking it under the wrapped hair or using a small amount of nail glue.
Daily Care and Maintenance
Moisturize Regularly
Keeping your butterfly locs moisturized is essential for maintaining their softness and preventing frizz. Use a light leave-in conditioner or a moisturizing spray to hydrate your locs daily. Pay extra attention to your scalp, applying a scalp oil or serum to prevent dryness and itchiness.
Protect at Night
Protect your butterfly locs while you sleep by wearing a satin or silk bonnet, scarf, or using a satin pillowcase. These materials reduce friction, preventing frizz and breakage. You can also loosely braid or twist your locs at night to maintain their shape and reduce tangling.
Avoid Excessive Manipulation
Limit the amount of manipulation and styling to prevent stress on your natural hair and the locs. Excessive pulling, twisting, or styling can lead to breakage and damage. Opt for low-manipulation styles and give your locs a break from tight hairstyles.
Washing Butterfly Locs
Shampooing
Washing butterfly locs can be challenging due to their structure, but it’s necessary to maintain scalp health. Use a diluted sulfate-free shampoo or a cleansing conditioner to wash your scalp and locs. Focus on your scalp, gently massaging the shampoo into your roots. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Drying
Ensure your butterfly locs dry completely to prevent mildew and odor. Use a microfiber towel to absorb excess water and reduce frizz. Allow your locs to air dry or use a hooded dryer on a low heat setting. Avoid using a blow dryer, as it can cause frizz and damage to the locs.
Refreshing and Retightening
Addressing Frizz
To manage frizz and maintain the neatness of your butterfly locs, use a light styling gel or mousse. Apply a small amount to your hands and smooth it over the locs, focusing on areas with the most frizz. Be gentle to avoid disrupting the loc structure.
Retightening the Roots
As your natural hair grows, the roots of your butterfly locs may become loose. Retighten the roots every few weeks to maintain a polished look. Use a crochet needle to pull the new growth through the base of the loc, securing it in place.
Trimming the Ends
Trimming the ends of your butterfly locs can help maintain their shape and prevent tangling. Use sharp scissors to trim any frayed or uneven ends. Be cautious not to cut too much, as this can alter the overall appearance of the locs.
See Also: How to Care for Faux Locs
Removing Butterfly Locs
Detangle Carefully
When it’s time to remove your butterfly locs, take your time to detangle each loc carefully. Apply a generous amount of conditioner or a detangling spray to your locs to soften them. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle from the ends to the roots.
Cleanse and Condition
After removing the locs, cleanse your hair thoroughly to remove any buildup or residue. Follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture and nourish your strands. Consider using a protein treatment to strengthen your hair after the protective style.
Give Your Hair a Break
Allow your natural hair to rest for a few weeks before installing another protective style. During this period, focus on moisturizing, strengthening, and nourishing your hair. This break will help maintain the health and integrity of your strands.
Conclusion
Caring for butterfly locs involves a combination of proper installation, regular maintenance, and gentle handling. By following the tips and steps outlined in this guide, you can keep your butterfly locs looking beautiful and healthy for an extended period. Remember to listen to your hair’s needs and adjust your care routine accordingly to ensure the best results. With the right care, butterfly locs can be a stunning and low-maintenance protective style that enhances your natural beauty.
