Faux Locs for Beginners: Should You Choose Curly or Boho Texture?

A lot of first-timers tell me the same thing: they’re excited for faux locs, but nervous about how they’ll feel on the scalp and if the finished look will match the picture. I get it. When one of my Woodlawn regulars said the braiders were “fast, and very gentle” and her hair came out “neat, clean, and exactly how I wanted, ” that’s the standard I aim for every day.

Here’s the quick answer so you can breathe: choose curly texture if you want fuller, blended volume that mimics natural curls and holds styles. Choose boho texture if you like a lighter, lived-in look with looser waves and easier hat-wear. In this guide, I’ll walk you through prep, what happens in the chair, and how to pick a texture that makes sense for your hair, your routine, and Woodlawn weather.

Curly locs vs faux boho locs: the 4 things that actually decide it

When you’re choosing between curly locs and faux boho locs, I don’t start with trends. I start with how you live day to day. These four factors usually make the decision clear.

Prep for faux locs with crochet: what I need from you before you sit down

I keep prep simple because first-time loc clients already have enough to think about. In general, I recommend you come in with your hair clean, fully dry, and stretched (blow-dried on low heat or stretched another way you like). If your scalp is irritated, let me know ahead of time so I can keep tension extra light and talk through size options that won’t feel like too much.

• Bring inspiration photos that show the size, length, and parting you want. A good photo saves time and avoids misunderstandings.
• Tell me your must-haves like “small locs, ” “lightweight, ” or “hat-friendly.” If you’re picky (a lot of my regulars proudly are), say it up front. I’d rather get it right than guess.
• If you want dyed locs, tell me the exact color mix. I’ve done mixed blends like 4/1B-30/27, and it helps to agree on the placement and the overall vibe before I start.

Inside your first faux locs appointment in Woodlawn: how it flows step by step

When you come to see me in the Woodlawn (Security Boulevard / Security Square Mall corridor in Baltimore County) area, I don’t rush the decision part. That’s where first-timers feel the most anxiety. We’ll look at your inspo, confirm the size and length, and talk through texture choice with your day-to-day in mind. If you’re commuting along Security Boulevard and I-695 and you need something that stays neat between shifts, that matters in how we build the set.

Next comes parting and base work. Clean parts make the entire style look “done, ” and people notice. One client even pointed out how focused the stylist was on keeping parts neat and checking in during the process. I do the same. I’ll ask how the tension feels while I’m working so you’re not silently suffering.

Then we install the faux locs with crochet. This is where texture changes the feel. Curly locs tend to build that blended fullness fast. Boho gives movement and a softer, airier finish. If you chose small locs or long lengths, expect the appointment to take several hours. A lot of our knotless clients mention 5 to 6 hours as a typical window, and I’d rather be honest about that than pretend it’s a quick in-and-out.

“So I was nervous I found them on instagram took a chance ... they were friendly ... I don’t like anybody in my hair but guys I found my new braid place”

A recent first-time visitor

At the end, I’ll finish and make sure you like the way the locs fall. If you want a bun or a specific style for the first day, tell me. I’ve had clients surprised (in a good way) when we helped them get the length and finish they were hoping for. You should leave feeling put together, not “almost done.”

Aftercare that keeps faux boho locs neat and curly locs fluffy (without overdoing it)

Right after your appointment, it’s normal to feel a little scalp tightness and extra awareness at the roots. Most people adjust quickly. What you don’t want is nonstop pulling, heavy itching, or tension headaches. If that happens, reach out so I can guide you on loosening and relief.

For day-to-day care, I generally recommend keeping your scalp lightly moisturized and keeping friction low. A satin scarf or bonnet at night makes a big difference, especially in Woodlawn’s humid summer months when frizz shows up faster. In winter, the heat indoors can dry your scalp out, so a little extra hydration goes a long way.

• If you chose boho: separate and finger-fluff the wavy pieces gently. Over-brushing can make it look fuzzy instead of intentionally lived-in.
• If you chose curly: keep products light. Too much heavy oil can weigh the curls down and make the texture look flat.

A lot of people tell me they start getting compliments fast, sometimes in the first 48 hours, and that the style holds up well even after a couple weeks. For maintenance timing, many clients like coming back around the six-week mark for a refresh, especially if they want their parting to stay crisp.

My best “first faux locs” advice for small locs, dyed locs, and hat season

Here’s what I tell almost every first-timer I see coming from Baltimore, Catonsville, Pikesville, Randallstown, Windsor Mill, and Gwynn Oak: don’t choose the tiniest size and the longest length at the same time if you’re worried about weight. Small locs are beautiful, but they’re also a commitment in time and density.

If you need to wear hats or a helmet in winter, boho is usually easier because it doesn’t compress as dramatically. Curly can still work. I just recommend a satin liner under your hat, and a quick fluff when you get where you’re going.

And one thing people don’t always realize until they’ve done it once: a lot of anxiety disappears when you’re sitting with someone who checks in, stays on task, and keeps things neat. That’s why so many of our first-timers become regulars for years. If you want to talk through curly vs boho before committing, come by for a quick consult. I’ll help you choose a texture that fits your routine and feels good on your scalp.

Need help deciding? Reach me in Woodlawn

If you’re ready to pick a texture or you just want a quick reality check on weight, size, and hat-wear, I’m happy to talk it through. I’m easy to get to for Woodlawn clients coming off Security Boulevard and I-695.