Complete Guide to Nu Locs

Have you always wanted Faux Loc styles? Then, the Nu Locs is one to try out. It is one of the trending hairstyles in the world, as it gives a more natural look. But before trying out this style, you should read this guide to Nu Locs. As it helps you learn more about the hairdo, you also get to know how to maintain it for the longest. 

What are Nu Locs?

Nu Locs are the most popular Faux Loc styles, distinguished by realism and kinkiness. “Nu” is a Greek and scientific term that means reflective. In short, Nu Locs are reflective faux locs. However, they are different from traditional locs because of the hair extensions. The interesting thing about this hairstyle is that the strands of your hair are nourished well with these extensions. 

Nu Locs (or Faux Locs) come in two types but vary depending on personal preference or creativity. The two types are – Braid-in and Crochet. 

The Braid-in Nu Locs involves braiding the natural hair into box braids and wrapping it with extensions. The popular loc extensions used are Marley hair, Kanekalon hair, and Yarn. This method is the most common because it helps retain a natural look; however, it takes time.

The Crochet Nu Locs involves braiding the natural hair into cornrows. Following, these cornrows are paired with crocheted artificial locs. It is the fastest method and makes your hair appear fuller.

How Long Do Nu Locs Last?

Nu Locs are one of the easiest to maintain hairstyles. They feel natural and can last very long – between 3 to 4 months. However, knowing they can last this long doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be cared for at all. 

What is the Difference Between Nu Locs and Soft Locs?

Nu Locs and Soft Locs are two distinguishable styles. They are trendy, natural, and beautiful. However, there are major differences between them. They include: 

Installation

Every hairstyle has its standard installation procedure. The one for Nu Locs has been described above with the braid-in and crocheted methods. Soft Locs (also called Butterfly Locs) have a bit of specificity since synthetic hair extensions are used. 

First, pre-done crochet locs are crocheted into the hair – different parts of the hair are plaited, followed by installing crocheted locs. Next, when these locs are installed, hair extensions are wrapped. The wrapping can be done in different ways – spring twist or passion twist. The importance of wrapping cannot be overemphasized. Finally, you have to maintain your hair. 

Appearance 

Apart from the unique installation with both hairstyles, another difference is the appearance. Telling a soft loc from a nu loc style isn’t so difficult. First, soft locs appear softer than Nu Locs. Secondly, the butterfly locs have a distinct wrapping method that makes the hair look fluttery. On the hand, Nu Locs appear as braided or purely crocheted. 

Tension 

With every hairstyle, there is tension. Now, this tension varies from one style to another. The softer types like the butterfly locs are not rigid or stiff compared to the faux locs. As a matter of fact, the former allows you to move in different directions and remains agile while doing that. For the latter, losing rigidity and enabling movement takes a little more time. 

Weight

Soft Locs live up to what they are called – soft and easy. They are lightweight hairstyles compared to Nu Locs. They are less tense and cannot damage or break your natural hair just anyhow. 

Length

Faux Locs and Butterfly Locs are also different when it comes to length. Faux Locs allows you to choose different lengths – they are customizable either as long or short style. On the other hand, Soft Locs are meant to be kept low and simple for easy carry. 

How to Do Nu Locs?

Before doing Nu Locs, you should already know how to braid hair. You also need to know how to use a crochet tool perfectly. The whole process is straightforward; within 2 hours, you should be done. 

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do Nu Locs. 

Step 1: Wash Your Hair

The first step to doing any hairstyle is ensuring your hair is washed and clean. You should wash your hair and scalp properly to eliminate dirt or underlying build-ups. With a clean base, it shouldn’t be difficult to do your hair. And after washing your hair, you should ensure it is dry – you can either air dry or use a hair dryer. 

Step 2: Manage Your Hair

Now that your hair is washed and clean, you should manage it, to start the faux locs. It doesn’t matter whether you want to do a braid-in or crochet; managing your hair is consequential. Talking about managing, it means dividing into adequate sections. However, you might have to pay a little more attention if the crochet design is what you are interested in – ensure to keep a flat braiding pattern for comfort. 

Step 3: Install Nu Locs Crochet Hair Extension

Now that you have a pattern you want to work with, you should start installing the Nu Locs crochet hair extension. You can do this using a crochet tool/needle or a latch hook. You should start using the hook right under the crochet or box braids from the back to the front. 

Step 4: Loop the Nu Locs 

When you install the hair extension with the latch hook, the next part is wrapping or looping. This can be done by putting one of the faux locs over another and pulling the crochet braiding back into the starting area. Ensure to do this tightly. 

Step 5: Attach Hook to Braid

In the case of box braids, you can loop the braids by making sure the hook goes through the middle. When it does, attach this hook to the braids and pull it through the locs. 

Step 6: Repeat Process

Repeat the hooking and looping of the braids until all the locs are installed. 

If you want a visual of the whole process, you should check out videos on YouTube. 

How to Maintain Nu Locs?

Maintaining Nu Locs is easy, which is why it can last up to 4 months. You can maintain Nu Locs by doing the following. 

Thorough Cleaning

When it comes to Faux Locs, your hair roots are important. They need to be clean always because only then will your hair be healthy and easy to maintain. You can clean the roots with a dread shampoo – not just any type but a residue-free option. This shampoo will remove build-up and make the hair fresh. 

Interestingly, nu locs are water-resistant fibers that they aren’t difficult to work with when wet. However, you should only dip them in warm water and rinse carefully to prevent excess frizz. 

Adding Nourishments

And when your hair is fresh and clean, you can make it better by adding natural nourishments like aloe vera, coconut oil, or canter oil. They help maintain moisture and prevent the roots and scalp from drying out. 

Retwisting and Braiding

Finally, some retwisting and braiding shouldn’t be a bad idea. These unique techniques make the hair fuller, cleaner, and more natural. And when the time finally comes to remove your nu locs, it shouldn’t be difficult if you’ve retwisted and braided.