Goddess Locs are a Gorgeous Protective Style—Here's How to Get the Look

Faux locs are a beautiful protective style that can be worn in so many ways. One of the most popular takes on the look is goddess locs. This version—worn by celebrities like Tamera Mowry Housley, Tyra Banks, and Jennifer Hudson—puts a cool, fresh twist on traditional faux locs. "Goddess and faux locs almost look the same, but the difference is goddess locs usually have curls in the loc and on the tips," celebrity hairstylist Takisha Sturdivant-Drew says. "You'll be able to identify goddess locs based on the texture of extensions added to the hair."

Ahead, Sturdivant-Drew and fellow celebrity hairstylist Larry Sims share everything you need to know about achieving and maintaining goddess locs.

Meet Our Expert

• Larry Sims is a celebrity hairstylist and the co-founder of Flawless by Gabrielle Union.

• Takisha Sturdivant-Drew is a celebrity hairstylist and the founder of TSD Hair.

What Are Goddess Locs?

As noted, goddess locs are a slightly modified version of faux locs. "[Goddess locs] typically involve tightly wrapped or braided sections of hair, often with curly or wavy extensions added [throughout] for length and texture," Sims adds. However, it's important to note that goddess locs shouldn't be confused with butterfly locs. The latter is an equally popular style, but the installation process is even more meticulous, and the look has a bouncier, coilier appearance from root to end.

How to Install Goddess Locs

The first step in installing the flowy protective style is purchasing the right hair. According to Sims, it's best to choose Kanekalon or Marley hair for your faux locs, as both types of extensions are very durable. For the wavy, curly pieces, Sturdivant-Drew recommends using human hair. She prefers to use extensions from her brand, TSD Hair (Deep Wave or Body Wave are great options).

Once you've selected your hair extensions, you can work on your goddess locs. According to the experts, goddess locs take anywhere from four to ten hours to install. The exact timing will depend on your installation method. You can achieve the style in several ways, but one of the most common approaches is to section your hair based on how many locs you want and then box braid each one, weaving in the curly extension hair. From there, you'll want to wrap your Kanekalon or Marley hair around your braid, leaving out your desired amount of curly ends. "To get the best results, keep the tension consistent during installation," Sturdivant-Drew says. "Secure the ends by crocheting them [through the loc]," Sturdivant-Drew says. Alternatively, you can seal the ends with a dab of nail glue.

For a more beginner-friendly approach, you can utilize the crochet technique. "The crochet method is the easiest way to install these locs," Sturdivant-Drew says. This approach also involves sectioning your hair based on how many locs you want and then box braiding each section halfway. You'll then two-strand twist the remaining parts of the hair. From there, you'll use a crochet needle to slip pre-made goddess locs (Boho Locs' Goddess Locs are great) through the base of your braids. You can then begin wrapping the pre-made extension around your hair from root to end.

How to Style Goddess Locs

Once you've installed goddess locs, you can make them feel extra versatile by styling them in several ways. Sims loves to style his clients' goddess locs in a classic half-up, half-down 'do. "For a chic and effortless look, I enjoy pulling back the top half of the goddess locs into a stylish half-up, half-down hairstyle, he says.

Sturdivant-Drew loves to put goddess locs into a bun. Sims is also a fan of the look, noting that "Updos are a fantastic way to elevate goddess locs for formal events or red carpet appearance." However, both experts say it is best not to pull your faux locs into a bun too often, as excessive tension can irritate your scale and cause hair breakage.

How to Maintain Goddess Locs

You can (and should) cleanse your hair while wearing the protective style in your hair, especially if you plan to wear it for several weeks. Sims recommends diluting a sulfate-free shampoo with water and applying it directly to your scalp. Massage gently to remove any buildup from your scalp. "Rinse thoroughly and follow with a lightweight conditioner, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends," he adds.

Sturdivant-Drew specifically recommends using Smooth Moisture Moisturising Shampoo ($13) and Leave-In Conditioner ($13). "Just like it says in the name, [these products are] great for sealing in moisture and keeping your locs looking fresh," she says.

If your scalp and hair crave more moisture, Sims suggests using the Flawless by Gabrielle Union Restoring Exotic Oil Treatment ($11). "I love this oil because it really helps reduce frizz and seal in moisture," he notes. Additionally, to keep your goddess locs pristine, Sims says to sleep with a satin scarf or bonnet over your hair. This helps reduce friction-induced frizz that may occur while sleeping.

The Final Takeaway

Goddess locs add a fun flare to regular faux locs, featuring free-flowing curly pieces throughout. Achieving the look can be tedious, requiring you to braid your natural hair and wrap your braids with extensions. However, the installation efforts are well worth it. The gorgeous, protective hairdo can be styled in many ways and lasts for several weeks (if maintained properly).

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I take the style down?

According to Sturdivant-Drew, the key is to take your time. "I recommend picking the twist in the opposite direction [of the wrapping] to find a hole in the twist," Sims adds. "Then, cut the extensions out of your hair. When you reach the root, gently pull the extensions out."

How do I make sure my goddess locs aren’t too heavy?

Our experts recommend decreasing the density of your locs to ensure the style isn’t too heavy.

How can you fix an unraveling goddess loc?

"If your locs are unraveling, it's likely because the ends weren't secured tightly enough during installation," Sims says. He adds that you can re-crochet the affected section or revisit your hairstylist.

Can you get goddess locs if you have short hair?

Experts say goddess locs can be installed on short hair, but you may need assistance from a stylist to add the extensions properly.

Read the original article on Byrdie.