Goddess Locs Are The Only Protective Style You’ll Want To Wear This Summer

If you’re looking for a protective style that’ill pair well with sun-kissed skin on the beach, let us point your attention to goddess locs. As you know, protective styles are a great option for protecting natural hair from harsh temperature changes that can leave strands dehydrated and prone to breakage and these locs are the perfect balance of bohemian ease and effortless cool.  

If you’re familiar with regular faux locs but “goddess” is a new one or you’re already committed to getting the look but unsure how much time you need to block out for your next hair appointment, read on. From a quick and easy explainer plus some style inspiration you can share with your hairdresser, here’s everything you need to know about the protective style you’ll be seeing all of summer ’21. 

What are goddess locs?

“Goddess locs are a style that resembles real locs but with curls added to the look,” says hairstylist Helena Koudou. “It is usually made with kinky Marley hair or synthetic extensions.” Instead of every hair perfectly laying in place, this style emphasizes the lived in, undone effect with curls popping out, accentuating the locs. 

What’s the difference between goddess locs and faux locs?

You might be wondering whether goddess locs count as faux locs and the answer is yes, but there’s a distinct difference between the two. “Goddess locs and faux locs look almost the same but the difference is that goddess locs usually have curls in the loc and on the tips,” says Koudou. “Faux locs typically look like real locs with no added hair to it. Think of goddess locs as a bohemian look, perfect for vacation on a beach.” 

How long do goddess locs take?

Any person who has worn a protective style knows that blocking out half to a full day is essential. From cleansing and prepping the natural hair to installment, a session can easily take hours. If you’re interested in goddess locs, prepare to spend a little longer in the chair than usual. 

“The process of doing Goddess locs takes a longer time than box braids because you’re wrapping hair around a braid to create a loc and adding curls to the locs,” says Koudou. ”Timing also depends on the length of the style and how fast the hairstylist is. A shoulder length style will take about 4-5 hours while waist length goddess locs will take up to 7-8 hours.” While all those hours might give you pause don’t let the time spent scare you off– the final look is more than worth it, not to mention you’ll get more than enough wear time out of your style, up to two months. 

Below we’ve rounded up five looks that are serving up major island vibes, perfect inspiration for your next salon visit. 

High Ponytail

It’s up to you whether you want to have your locs set in a high ponytail or left out with the option to put up but either way this elongating style will have you looking regal and turning heads as you walk by.

Color-block Effect

Almost ombre but not quite, these color-blocked goddess locs are a refresh on the classic dye technique. Perfectly swirled baby hairs optional (but we highly recommend).

Space Buns

Space buns are a classic style that looks good on any age. Warm up the look with a honey blonde tone that’s perfect for summer weather.

Shoulder-Length Bob

It’s the lob in goddess locs form. We love a good hair toss but summer gets hot and humid so understandable that you might want length but not a trail of hair behind your back. This style delivers on all of the above.

Cherry Red

If sultry were a color it would probably be cherry red. It’s the warmth of this hue that will have your goddess locs looking luxe and full of body.