How to Wash Faux Locs: A Comprehensive Guide for Clean and Healthy Hair
Faux locs are a popular protective hairstyle that allows you to achieve the look of dreadlocks without the long-term commitment. They are stylish, versatile, and can be a great way to give your natural hair a break from daily styling. However, just like any hairstyle, faux locs require proper maintenance, and washing them is crucial for maintaining scalp health, preventing product buildup, and keeping your locs looking their best. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps of washing faux locs, providing tips and tricks to ensure a clean and healthy hairstyle.
Why Washing Faux Locs is Important
Before diving into the washing process, it’s essential to understand why regular washing is necessary for faux locs:
* **Scalp Health:** The scalp is the foundation of healthy hair. When you have faux locs, your scalp can become a breeding ground for dirt, oil, and product buildup. This can lead to itching, irritation, and even dandruff. Washing your scalp regularly removes these impurities and promotes a healthy scalp environment.
* **Product Buildup:** Hair products like oils, serums, and gels can accumulate on your faux locs over time. This buildup can make your locs feel heavy, stiff, and dull. Washing removes the buildup and restores the natural shine and movement of your locs.
* **Odor Prevention:** A dirty scalp and product buildup can lead to unpleasant odors. Washing your faux locs helps to eliminate these odors and keep your hair smelling fresh.
* **Longevity of Style:** Regular washing can extend the life of your faux locs. By removing dirt and buildup, you prevent the locs from becoming matted, tangled, or damaged. Clean locs also look better and maintain their shape longer.
How Often Should You Wash Faux Locs?
The frequency of washing your faux locs depends on your lifestyle, activity level, and scalp type. As a general guideline, aim to wash your faux locs every 1-2 weeks. If you exercise frequently, sweat a lot, or use a lot of hair products, you may need to wash them more often. Conversely, if you have a dry scalp or don’t use many products, you can wash them less frequently.
What You’ll Need to Wash Faux Locs
Before you begin, gather the following supplies:
* **Mild Shampoo:** Choose a sulfate-free shampoo that is gentle on your hair and scalp. Sulfates can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause dryness and irritation. Look for shampoos specifically designed for braids, locs, or sensitive scalps.
* **Conditioner (Optional):** While not always necessary, a lightweight conditioner can help to moisturize your hair and scalp. Choose a conditioner that is free of heavy oils and silicones, as these can cause buildup.
* **Spray Bottle:** A spray bottle filled with water will help to dilute the shampoo and distribute it evenly throughout your hair.
* **Applicator Bottle (Optional):** An applicator bottle can be helpful for applying shampoo directly to your scalp, especially if you have thick faux locs.
* **Microfiber Towel or T-shirt:** Microfiber towels and T-shirts are gentler on your hair than regular towels and can help to reduce frizz and breakage.
* **Hair Clips or Bands:** Hair clips or bands will help to section your hair and keep the locs out of your face while you wash.
* **Scalp Oil (Optional):** A lightweight scalp oil can help to moisturize your scalp after washing.
* **Leave-in Conditioner (Optional):** A leave-in conditioner can help to hydrate your hair and prevent dryness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Faux Locs
Follow these steps to wash your faux locs effectively:
**Step 1: Prepare Your Hair**
* **Detangle:** Before washing, gently detangle any loose hair around the base of your faux locs. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to carefully remove any knots or tangles. This will prevent further tangling during the washing process.
* **Dilute Shampoo:** In a spray bottle, mix your shampoo with water. A ratio of 1 part shampoo to 2 parts water is generally recommended. This will help to distribute the shampoo evenly and prevent buildup.
**Step 2: Wash Your Scalp**
* **Section Your Hair:** Divide your hair into four sections using hair clips or bands. This will make it easier to access your scalp.
* **Apply Shampoo:** Spray the diluted shampoo directly onto your scalp, focusing on the areas that tend to get the dirtiest, such as the hairline and nape of the neck. If you’re using an applicator bottle, apply the shampoo directly to your scalp in small sections.
* **Massage Your Scalp:** Use your fingertips to gently massage your scalp for 3-5 minutes. Avoid using your fingernails, as this can irritate your scalp. Focus on lifting away dirt, oil, and product buildup. The goal is to cleanse the scalp thoroughly without causing excessive friction to the faux locs themselves.
* **Rinse Thoroughly:** Rinse your scalp thoroughly with warm water until all the shampoo is removed. Make sure to rinse each section of your hair carefully to avoid leaving any residue.
**Step 3: Wash the Faux Locs (Optional)**
* **Apply Shampoo (Diluted):** If you feel the need to wash the faux locs themselves (especially if you use a lot of product), gently apply the diluted shampoo mixture down the length of each loc. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing vigorously, as this can cause frizz and damage. Focus on gently squeezing the locs to remove any surface dirt or buildup.
* **Rinse Thoroughly:** Rinse the faux locs thoroughly with warm water until all the shampoo is removed. Again, avoid excessive rubbing or scrubbing.
**Step 4: Condition (Optional)**
* **Apply Conditioner:** If you’re using conditioner, apply a lightweight conditioner to the length of your faux locs, avoiding the scalp. Focus on the ends of the locs, as they tend to be the driest. Use a very small amount to prevent buildup.
* **Rinse Thoroughly:** Rinse the conditioner thoroughly with cool water. Cool water helps to seal the hair cuticle and add shine.
**Step 5: Dry Your Hair**
* **Squeeze Out Excess Water:** Gently squeeze out excess water from your faux locs. Avoid wringing or twisting your hair, as this can cause damage.
* **Wrap with Microfiber Towel or T-shirt:** Wrap your hair with a microfiber towel or T-shirt to absorb excess water. Leave the towel or T-shirt on for 15-30 minutes.
* **Air Dry or Use a Diffuser:** Allow your hair to air dry completely, or use a diffuser on a low heat setting to speed up the drying process. Avoid using a regular hair dryer, as the heat can damage your faux locs.
**Step 6: Moisturize Your Scalp and Hair**
* **Apply Scalp Oil:** Once your hair is dry, apply a lightweight scalp oil to your scalp to moisturize and prevent dryness. Use your fingertips to gently massage the oil into your scalp.
* **Apply Leave-in Conditioner (Optional):** If you’re using a leave-in conditioner, apply a small amount to the length of your faux locs to hydrate and prevent frizz.
Tips for Washing Faux Locs
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when washing faux locs:
* **Use a Shower Cap Between Washes:** To prolong the time between washes, wear a shower cap when showering or bathing. This will protect your faux locs from getting wet and prevent them from becoming dirty or frizzy.
* **Cleanse Your Scalp Regularly with Witch Hazel or Apple Cider Vinegar:** Between washes, you can use a cotton pad soaked in witch hazel or diluted apple cider vinegar to cleanse your scalp. This will help to remove dirt, oil, and buildup without wetting your hair.
* **Avoid Heavy Products:** Use lightweight hair products that won’t weigh down your faux locs or cause buildup. Avoid products containing heavy oils, silicones, or waxes.
* **Protect Your Hair at Night:** Sleep on a satin pillowcase or wrap your hair in a satin scarf to prevent frizz and breakage.
* **Consider a Clarifying Shampoo Periodically:** If you notice significant buildup despite using gentle products, consider using a clarifying shampoo once a month. Be sure to follow up with a moisturizing treatment, as clarifying shampoos can be drying.
* **Pay Attention to the Type of Hair Used:** Synthetic hair reacts differently to water and products than human hair. Be mindful of the specific type of hair used for your faux locs and adjust your washing routine accordingly. Some synthetic hair can become easily tangled or matted with excessive washing.
* **Focus on the Scalp:** The primary goal is to keep the scalp clean and healthy. Excessive washing of the faux locs themselves can lead to frizz and unraveling, so focus your efforts on cleansing the scalp.
* **Use a Braided Wig Cap Underneath:** If you are installing the faux locs yourself, consider braiding your natural hair in a protective style underneath and wearing a braided wig cap. This creates a barrier between the faux locs and your natural hair, making it easier to cleanse the scalp without saturating the locs.
Dealing with Common Issues
* **Itchy Scalp:** An itchy scalp is a common problem with faux locs. Regular washing, using a gentle shampoo, and moisturizing your scalp can help to alleviate itching. You can also try using a scalp oil containing tea tree oil or peppermint oil, as these oils have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
* **Dandruff:** Dandruff can be caused by a dry scalp, fungal infection, or product buildup. Washing your hair regularly with an anti-dandruff shampoo can help to control dandruff. You can also try using a scalp scrub to exfoliate your scalp and remove dead skin cells.
* **Frizz:** Frizz can be a problem with faux locs, especially if they are not properly moisturized. Using a leave-in conditioner, sleeping on a satin pillowcase, and avoiding excessive rubbing or scrubbing can help to prevent frizz.
* **Unraveling:** Over-washing or aggressive washing can cause the faux locs to unravel. If you notice your locs unraveling, try washing them less frequently and handling them more gently. You can also use a crochet needle to re-tighten any loose strands.
* **Buildup:** Product buildup is a common issue with faux locs, especially if you use a lot of styling products. To prevent buildup, use lightweight products, wash your hair regularly, and clarify your hair periodically with a clarifying shampoo.
Choosing the Right Products
Selecting the right products is key to maintaining healthy faux locs. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for:
* **Shampoo:** Opt for sulfate-free shampoos that are moisturizing and gentle. Look for ingredients like aloe vera, glycerin, and natural oils.
* **Conditioner:** A lightweight, water-based conditioner is ideal. Avoid heavy creams or conditioners that contain silicones, as they can lead to buildup.
* **Scalp Oil:** Choose a lightweight oil that won’t clog your pores. Jojoba oil, argan oil, and grapeseed oil are good options.
* **Leave-in Conditioner:** Look for a leave-in conditioner that is designed for braids or locs. These products are typically lightweight and won’t cause buildup.
* **Styling Products:** Use styling products sparingly. If you use gel or mousse, choose a water-based formula that is easy to rinse out.
DIY Scalp Cleansing Sprays
For a quick refresh between washes, consider making your own scalp cleansing spray:
* **Witch Hazel and Tea Tree Oil:** Mix 1/2 cup of witch hazel with 10 drops of tea tree oil. Spray onto your scalp and massage gently.
* **Apple Cider Vinegar and Water:** Dilute apple cider vinegar with water (1 part ACV to 3 parts water). Spray onto your scalp and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with water.
* **Rosewater and Aloe Vera Juice:** Combine equal parts rosewater and aloe vera juice. Spray onto your scalp for a soothing and moisturizing cleanse.
Professional Maintenance
While you can maintain your faux locs at home, it’s also a good idea to visit a professional stylist for maintenance every few weeks. A stylist can tighten any loose locs, trim any frayed ends, and provide a deep cleansing treatment.
Conclusion
Washing faux locs is an essential part of maintaining a healthy and stylish hairstyle. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can keep your scalp clean, prevent product buildup, and extend the life of your faux locs. Remember to choose the right products, be gentle with your hair, and listen to your scalp’s needs. With proper care and maintenance, your faux locs will look their best for weeks to come. Enjoy your beautiful and healthy locs!