CurlyNikki Says: I just spent 30 minutes searching my phone and hard drive for pics of me in 2016 and again in 2020ish in faux locs. GONE! Of course I rocked them chin-length (love a bob) for the style, volume, and gentleness on my edges (lighter weight). I LOVED boholocs-super easy, but they did look less realistic than the ones my friend and stylist Brittany did, wrapping them herself! I don’t think I’d rock them again, just because as soon as I’m any sort of ‘long-term’ protective style, I IMMEDIATELY regret it lol. Also, since I have such fine hair, it’s really a crap shoot every time (it’s like playing with fire foreal lol and fire is still HOT), and I don’t even like the look until it’s like 2-weeks old- because then it looks more natural, more like… me!
4 Best Pre-Looped Faux Locs for Crochet Installs in 2026
by Team CurlyNikki
The price you see on a crochet hair pack usually isn’t the full cost of your style. For example, four packs at $12 each add up to $48 before you even factor in shipping or installation. If you need six packs, the total goes up again. Plus, your shopping cart can’t tell you if the product photos match the exact loc style, distressed, wrapped, or curly-ended, that you want to see in the mirror. Mermaid never shows up looking as whimsical as it did online or on the packaging.
If you want a textured 24-inch style, Sensationnel Lulutress 3X Distressed Locs is a good place to start. The listing clearly shows it has 36 strands per pack and recommends using four to six packs. If you prefer something shorter, check out Outre’s 12-inch Bonita Butterfly Locs. Freetress Nikki Gorgeous Loc features wrapped lengths with tapered curls at the ends, while the slimmer Sensationnel butterfly locs offer a more narrow, irregular texture.
| Award | Product | Best for | Key features | Size | Approx. price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | SENSATIONNEL – LULUTRESS 3X DISTRESSED LOCS 24″ | A textured, longer distressed look | Looped; 36 strands per pack; retailer suggests 4 to 6 packs | 24 in | $12 per pack |
| Best shorter option | OUTRE – X-PRESSION – TWISTED UP – BONITA BUTTERFLY LOCS COILY TIP 12″ | A shorter butterfly silhouette with coily tips | Synthetic Kanekalon; 12 strands per pack; retailer suggests 4 to 6 packs | 12 in | $8 per pack |
| Best tapered curly tip | FREETRESS – 3X NIKKI GORGEOUS LOC 18″ | Wrapped locs with tapered curls at the ends | 36 strands per pack; natural and warm color options | 18 in | $12 per pack |
| Best slim butterfly loc | Sensationnel Lulutress Crochet Braid – 2X Skinny Butterfly Locs 18″ | A slimmer butterfly shape | Pre-looped synthetic fiber; narrower profile | 18 in | $20 per pack at listed retailer |
How to buy enough hair
Begin by deciding on the finished look you want: wrapped faux locs, distressed locs, or butterfly locs. Next, compare the number of strands, not just the number of bundles listed on the package. Ask your stylist how many pieces you’ll need for your braid pattern and whether you’ll be installing the hair on cornrows or individual braids. Also, make sure every pack in your order comes in the shade you want.
If you’re choosing a long style, think about how much weight will be at your hairline and whether your scalp will feel comfortable. The American Academy of Dermatology warns that repeated pulling from locs and extensions can lead to traction hair loss. If you feel pain, stinging, or notice raised skin at your roots, it’s a sign to loosen your hairstyle.
FAQs
How many packs of faux-loc crochet hair do I need?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The 24-inch Distressed Locs listing recommends four to six packs, and the 12-inch Bonita listing suggests the same, even though the strand counts are different. The number you need depends on your part size, how much coverage you want, and the volume you prefer.
Are butterfly locs and distressed locs interchangeable?
Both styles have a textured finish, but butterfly locs have more visible curls or loops. Check the product close-up photos before you order, especially if you want a neat root with a messier length.
Can crochet locs be reused?
Some people do reuse synthetic hair, but these listings don’t guarantee how long it will last. How you remove, detangle, and clean the hair will affect whether you can reuse it. It’s safest to budget as if you’ll only use it once.
