Butterfly locs are one of the most popular new hairstyle trends all over different internet platforms, social media, and as well in daily life culture! They are similar to faux locs and distressed locs, but they still have their own unique look and boho style.
They can be installed with the wrap and braid method, as well as the crochet method, and usually takes anywhere from 4-8 hours to be completed. But, how do you remove the locs?
If you choose to get butterfly locs, know that the removal process can be very simple if using the right methods and installation process. Here is a simple breakdown of the take down process, and a few extra tips to make the process much easier!
How long should you keep butterfly locs in?
It is recommended that you leave butterfly locs in 4-5 weeks. As they can likely last longer, for protection purposes it is recommended to remove them early. Leaving them in their full span puts your head and scalp at risk.
With this hairstyle, you don’t have access to your full head of hair, so you need to focus better on your scalp. The improper care of butterfly locs, or any locs in general, can lead to build up and bacteria in the hair, and also make the removal process a lot harder.
Is it painful to remove butterfly locs?
Butterfly locs are typically installed using the crochet method, or the braiding method. Both of these methods are relatively tensionless and don’t cause very much distress to your head. This style of locs are also used as a protective hairstyle, and doesn’t usually tangle or pull your hair, as long as they were put in properly.
Can you remove butterfly locs yourself?
Removing butterfly locs yourself is totally doable! Just remember that patience is key. It is important to give yourself time for the removal process. Try not to force anything and be sure to keep a spray bottle or some oil on handy to help loosen up the dreads and braids and to relieve any tension if need be.
How long does it take to remove butterfly locs?
As long as they were put in properly in the beginning, the removal process shouldn’t take more than a few hours. Taking out any beads or accessories, as well as separating any dreads that are matted together, should be done first. This is also one of the longest parts of the whole process, so try not to get too frustrated and take breaks when needed. Make sure to try and be gentle to avoid any potential or unnecessary breakage of your real hair.
How do you remove butterfly locs?
Now, for the main information you came here for; the breakdown of the removal process. Butterfly locs can be removed in various different ways. Depending on what process was used to install the locs in the first place, will help you determine which method would be best for removal. However, overall the process is similar no matter what way you decide to do it. Separation of the loc, and your real hair is a standard step and main part of the process. Don’t forget to take your time, don’t force anything, and take breaks when needed. Below we will outline the various steps of the ways to remove butterfly locs.
Breakdown: Step by step removal
As mentioned above, there is more than one way to take butterfly locs out. We will outline the two most common ways to remove butterfly locs.
Method 1
- Remove all accessories that have been put into the locs such as beads, string, jewels, or charms.
- Separate all dreads that are matted or stuck together, as much as possible.
- Cut the loc to remove any excess hair if possible. Depending on the length, you may need to separate the braid before cutting the loc. (You don’t have to cut if afraid or nervous of cutting real hair, there will just be more to work with)
- Pull the wrapping portion down and out of the hair, away and out of the braid as much as possible, until it starts to tangle or strains the scalp.
- Unravel the loc from the braid and remove any excess tangles still left.
- Pull out the rest of the loc from the base/root
Method 2
- Remove all accessories that have been put into the locs such as beads, string, jeles, or charms.
- Separate all dreads that are matted or stuck together, as much as possible.
- Start at the base. Take the loc and pull the braid out of the loc from the top.
- Cut the loc and then gently pull any access hair out of the top of the braid.
(This method is commonly used when using colored locs)
Both methods are very similar, however it is up to you to choose your removal preference. Once the butterfly locs have been properly and completely removed, try your best to pull out and remove any old build up or left over matted areas before trying to comb or brush it out. This will really help minimize the amount of breakage or damage that can potentially harm your hair and scalp.
Even though this is typically a protective hairstyle, it is still important to cleanse and condition your hair after the removal of the locs. Butterfly locs can start to get very heavy or matted after ahile, and cause a lot of buildup and irritation close to the scalp. Try to use repairing products and continue to care for your strands long after the process is over and before installing another hairstyle.
Overall, Butterfly locs are a fun trendy hairstyle that is typically simple to install and remove. The locs are protective, fast and a lot less painful and damaging compared to other similar hairstyles.
The removal process can be just as simple as the installment process if done properly. And be sure to remember to only keep them in for the recommended amount of time, stop any damage before it happens.
Come back and read these tips and tricks if you ever find yourself needing to remove butterfly locs!
