Have you been dreaming of getting locs but would rather forego the locking process? Well, loc extensions may be precisely what you need.
Extensions hand you length on day one, and they also hang new weight on follicles that have never had to carry it. Our loc method matcher weighs that against the six other ways to start.
Dreadlock extensions are not the easiest style to do on your hair, as they take patience and knowledge to create.
Although there's no need to worry, this article will teach you step-by-step how to do loc extensions. We'll also give you helpful tips and tricks to make your loc extension installation experience as easygoing as possible.
What Are Loc Extensions?
Many get confused when differentiating between faux locs and loc extensions. So, before we get into the instructions for doing dreadlock extensions, we'll take a second to clarify.
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Faux locs are a protective style that utilizes either synthetic or human hair to manipulate the look of dreadlocks. They are not meant to be left in your hair permanently and should be taken down within a few months of installation.
On the other hand, loc extensions are human hair woven together to create long-term dreadlocks.
These locs look very much like natural dreadlocks, unlike faux locs, which may look artificial. As your hair grows, the new growth is either retwisted or interlocked.
Now that you understand the difference between dreadlock extensions and faux locs, you can make an informed decision regarding whether loc extensions are what you want.
What Hair Do You Need for Loc Extensions?
Human hair is the most common choice for permanent loc extensions. You can buy premade locs or use loose Afro kinky bulk human hair to make your own, which we’ll explain in the step-by-step section below.
Human hair blends with your natural hair and can be crocheted into it for a long-term installation. Synthetic loc extensions are available too, but they don’t blend, color, or mature the same way human hair does. They’re generally a better fit for a temporary style. Ask your loctician which material fits your goal before you buy anything.
Premade loc extensions may be sold individually or in counted sets, while loose extension hair is usually sold in packs or bundles. The number you’ll need depends on your desired loc size, hair density, and parting pattern. Your loctician should confirm the count, length, and material before you place an order.
Many locticians require at least 3 to 4 inches of natural hair for a secure attachment, but the minimum varies by stylist and installation method. Longer or denser hair may take more time and cost more, so schedule a consultation before booking.
How Much Do Loc Extensions Cost?
A full salon installation often costs several hundred to well over $1,000. Your price will depend on the number, size, and length of the locs, whether the extension hair is included, your natural hair’s length and density, your stylist, and your location.
Some locticians charge per loc, while others use a flat rate based on the loc count and length. Ask whether your quote includes the extension hair, shampooing, installation, and styling so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
Remember to include maintenance in your budget. Your new growth may need service every 4 to 8 weeks at first, but the timing and price depend on whether you retwist or interlock, your loc count, and how quickly your hair grows.
The installation itself can take several hours. Smaller locs or larger loc counts may require a second appointment, so ask your loctician how much time to set aside.
How Long Before Loc Extensions Become Your Own Locs?
The extension hair never becomes your own hair. However, permanent human hair extensions can become fully integrated with your locs as your natural hair grows and locks around the attachment.
How long that takes varies with your hair texture, installation method, maintenance routine, and the amount of natural hair you started with. Your new growth will move through the usual locking stages, but budding runs from about month 6 to month 12, and that’s a stage, not a deadline for when the extensions become your own. Our guide to the stages of locs explains what you can expect as your roots mature.
Follow the maintenance schedule your loctician recommends. As a general guide, you may retwist every 4 to 6 weeks or interlock about every 8 weeks. Avoid maintaining your roots too often, since that can lead to thinning.
Once the connection is secure, you can leave the extension hair in for years. You can also trim it away as your natural locs grow longer. Just remember that removing the extension hair won’t remove or unlock the locs that have already formed in your natural hair.
| Measure | Value |
|---|---|
| Style type | Long-term install Loc extensions are meant to stay, and that’s what separates them from faux locs. That’s not the same as permanent: the extension hair can be cut away once your own locs are long enough, and taking it off doesn’t unlock the hair that has already locked. |
| Also known as | Dreadlock extensions Instant locs aren’t always loc extensions. Instant locs use a crochet hook to lock your natural hair right away, while loc extensions add hair for extra length. Ask your loctician which service you’re booking. |
| Install time | About 5 to 16 hours Attaching extensions to existing locs may take less time than starting a full set on loose hair. Loc count, length, density, and the installation method all affect the timing, and larger sets may be split across two appointments. |
| Salon cost (US) | $600 to $1,400 Quotes run from a few hundred dollars to well over a thousand, so don’t settle for the first one. The figures behind this range: a booking platform puts the typical install at $600 to $1,400, one salon charges about $10 a loc, and another publishes flat rates of $1,150 for a 6-inch set and $1,250 for an 8-inch set. Sources disagree |
| How locticians price it | Per loc, or a flat rate by length It’s worth asking before you book, because the two quote styles are hard to compare. Also ask whether the quote includes the extension hair itself, shampooing, and styling. |
| DIY cost | Depends on the loc count, length, and material We couldn’t find a reliable published price range. Premade locs are sold individually or in counted sets, while loose Afro kinky bulk hair is sold in packs. Your total will depend on the number, length, and material you buy. |
| Can you do it yourself | Yes, but a helper makes it easier Making the locs and parting your hair may be manageable on your own. Attaching them evenly at the roots, especially in the back, is harder when you can’t see what you’re doing, so a helper or loctician can make the installation easier. |
| Retightening interval | Every 4 to 8 weeks Retwisting is usually at the shorter end of that range, while interlocking may be at the longer end. Your schedule will depend on your method and how quickly your hair grows. Maintaining your roots too often or too tightly can lead to thinning. |
| Tension risk on edges | High The risk increases when the extensions are long, heavy, installed too tightly, or attached to sections that are too small. The AAD says tight locs and extensions can cause traction alopecia, which is hair loss caused by repeated pulling. |
| How to tell it’s too tight | Pain, stinging, scalp crusts, tenting, or broken hairs If your style hurts, tell your loctician immediately and ask them to loosen the affected area. Don’t wait until the installation is finished. |
| Hair needed | Premade locs, or loose Afro kinky bulk human hair Your loc size, density, and parting pattern set the count, so your loctician should confirm it before you order. One salon reports averaging 85 to 100 locs for a full head. |
| Minimum natural hair length | About 3 to 4 inches Published minimums cluster here, but the minimum varies by stylist and by attachment method, so confirm yours at a consultation rather than assuming. |
| Removal | Not designed to come out The extension hair can be trimmed off, and plenty of people do that once their own length catches up. Your own hair stays locked either way. |
| Best suited to | Healthy hair that can support the added weight Locs can form on many hair textures. Afro kinky human hair often blends most easily with coily or kinky hair, but your natural hair’s length, density, condition, and the installation method matter too. |
| Not for you if | Your edges are already thinning, or you want a temporary style Loc extensions add weight at the roots, which can place more stress on fragile edges. If you want an easy takedown, faux locs may be a better choice because your natural hair isn’t meant to lock into them. |
How we got these numbers. We collected published figures from locticians who install loc extensions and from salon booking data, then reconciled them instead of averaging them. Where a number is published by a single salon, we say so rather than present it as a standard. One row has no reliable published range, and it says so instead of guessing.
Sources: American Academy of Dermatology on hairstyles and hair loss. Cost, time, and maintenance figures come from secondary research across published stylist, salon, and hair-retailer sources and reflect typical US mid-market pricing that will vary by region and stylist. Last verified October 2026.
Loc Extensions: Step by Step Instructions
Let us tell you beforehand that doing loc extensions is no small undertaking.
However, if you follow our instructions, you'll be able to prepare your natural hair, make your own dreadlock extensions, and install them yourself.
Let's jump right into it!
Purchase or Make Your Own Loc Extensions
To do dreadlock extensions, you first need to obtain the loc extensions. Loc extensions are made of loose human hair using a crochet tool.
In this section, we'll tell you how to get pre-made human hair loc extensions or how to make your own loc extensions.
Buy Handmade Loc Extensions
If the thought of making loc extensions makes you cringe, don't worry. In this section, we'll tell you where to get high-quality loc extensions.
Some of the best handmade loc extensions are on Etsy.com. You can find them in various lengths, colors, and price points. Etsy seller, Locsanity, offers an extensive array of loc extensions.
Choose from the following loc extension types:
You can also find quality loc extensions at FashionDreads.com. This online shop has them in just about every color you can imagine.
Choose your length and size, and they'll ship your locs to your home.
Here are some options to consider:
We do not recommend buying your loc extensions from just any online store, as loc extension quality can vary. Choose a loc extension shop that has stellar reviews and is transparent about its prices and loc options.
No matter where you shop, you will need to pay anywhere from $300 to $1,000 for a full head of handmade loc extensions. The price varies based on the color, length, and size of the locs.
Make Your Own Loc Extensions
If you'd rather not pay for handmade loc extensions, you can save some money and make your own.
With some practice and dedication, you can become a loc-making machine! Read the section below for detailed instructions.
Gather Your Supplies
To make loc extensions, you will need 100% Afro kinky bulk human hair (3 - 4 packs for a full head of locs) and a dreadlock crochet hook.
The size hook you will need depends on your desired loc size. Often, a 0.5mm or 0.75mm will work perfectly.
You can use a single, double, or triple hook tool, depending on your personal preference.
Make the Locs
Follow the below steps to turn the loose human hair into locs.
- Separate a section of the human hair. The larger the section of hair, the thicker your loc will be. Your locs should be proportional to the size of your future natural locs.
- Stretch out the section of hair. Pull the hair vertically from both ends to stretch it out a bit. This will prepare the hair for the next step.
- Insert your crochet hook. Starting midway down the section of hair, insert your hook into the section of hair.
- Begin crocheting. Hold the hair with your forefinger, middle finger, and thumb. Push the hook in and pull it out repeatedly a few times. Stop crocheting, turn the hair, and insert the needle at a different angle. Continue crocheting. Soon, you'll notice that the hair is beginning to lock.
- Repeat the previous step, up and down the loc, without going all the way down to either end. Leave at least 3 inches of hair unlocked at both ends.
- Blunt the end. On one end of the loc, twist the hair between your fingers and fold it down. Crochet the end of the loc from several angles to create a blunted end.
- Repeat all of the above steps for each loc.
Prepare Your Natural Hair for Loc Extensions
To get the best possible results, you'll need to prepare your natural hair. In the following sections, we will go over each step you should take.
Get Your Materials
Save yourself some time and frustration and gather your materials beforehand. You'll need the following supplies:
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Scissors
- Rat tail comb
- Wide toothed comb
- Clips or ponytail holders
- Oil
- Locking cream (optional)
Cleanse Your Hair Thoroughly
Before installing loc extensions, ensure that your hair is clean. Use a clarifying shampoo to get rid of any buildup or debris in your hair.
Keep in mind that any buildup in your hair will eventually end up in your locs, so starting with clean hair is a must.
Condition Your Hair
Condition your hair with a moisturizing conditioner to bring back moisture lost from your shampooing session. Choose a conditioner that has moisturizing properties and promotes hair health.
Take this time to detangle your hair to minimize pain during the parting process. Don't dry your hair after conditioning it, as it should be damp for the next step.
Separate and Twist Your Hair
To prepare your hair for loc attachment, you'll need to section and twist your natural hair. This way, you can plan out your loc parting system and keep the parts separate until you're ready to attach the loc extensions.
Choose Your Parting System
There are many different parting systems to familiarize yourself with. The below sections will help you choose the right parting system for you.
Square parts - The square parting system is the most popular parting method for locs. You simply part your hair in the shape of squares.
People love this parting system for simplicity, but some don't like it because of the amount of scalp that it tends to show.
Crescent parts - Crescent parts are created by making c-shaped parts all over the head. This parting system is preferred by those who want their locs to frame their face. They are also easy to do.
Diamond parts - Diamond parts are a bit more challenging to achieve, but they are preferred for their intricacy and the fact that they don't show much scalp. Creating diamond parts is complex, and for that reason, it's not recommended for DIYers.
Random parts
You don't have to choose a specific parting system if you don't want to. You can part your hair randomly with your fingers if neatness is not important to you.
Whichever parting system you choose, make sure that you lightly twist your hair after parting each section. This way, you won't have to go back and part your hair a second time.
Attach the Loc Extensions
Now that your hair has been parted and twisted, you're ready to attach your loc extensions! Step by step instructions are below to help you through this step:
- Place the loc extension at the base of one of your sections of natural hair.
- With a crochet hook, begin to crochet the loose extension hair to your natural hair.
- Grip your natural hair and the extension hair with your forefinger, middle finger, and thumb.
- Insert and pull out the crochet hook repeatedly.
- Every so often, stop crocheting, turn the hair, and crochet from a different angle.
- Stop crocheting when the hair feels locked and secure.
- Repeat the above steps to attach the rest of the locs.
Note: Make sure not to crochet too close to the scalp, as this can cause scalp pain. Leave at least a half-inch of hair unlocked.
Twist the Roots of the Locs
Once you've attached all of the locs, you'll notice that there is some frizz at the roots. If you'd like, you can twist the roots of your hair to make them look neater.
The below steps will get you through the twisting process:
- Spray the roots of your locs with water.
- Add oil or a locking gel if you desire.
- Twist your locs until they are flat to the scalp. Ensure that all of the locs are twisted in the same direction and not twisted too tightly. This is necessary to avoid headaches and hair loss.
If you'd like to see a visual demonstration of the loc extension attachment process, watch the YouTube video above.
Loc Extension Maintenance
Loc extensions require regular maintenance sessions to stay looking their best. Every few weeks, you should do the following:
- Wash your locs and scalp.
- Retwist the new growth.
- Oil your scalp to keep your locs moisturized.
Between maintenance sessions, you may feel the need to oil your scalp or spritz your hair. You can do these things, but above all, you should try to leave your hair alone so your new growth can lock.
Pros and Cons of Loc Extensions
Loc extensions come with their share of advantages and disadvantages, just like any other style. Read the below list to find out all of the loc extension pros and cons.
Pros
- You can get locs now - Natural dreadlocks take several months to loc, but loc extensions give you fully mature locs immediately. You can forego the many stages of loc maturation with loc extensions.
- No unraveling worries - With natural locs, especially in the beginning, you must be careful with how you deal with your hair. With loc extensions, you can wash and style your hair immediately after installation without fear of unraveling.
Cons
- Loc extensions are expensive - For a full head of loc extensions, you should expect to pay at least a few hundred dollars. This amount does not include the cost to get them professionally installed, should you go to a loctician.
- Difficult to install - There is a very steep learning curve when it comes to crocheting locs. Some give up on making or installing loc extensions because it takes time to get the crocheting technique right.
- Forego the locking experience - This con may be a pro to some. Loc extensions cut out all of the locking phases of natural locs, keeping you from experiencing the "journey" of it all.
- Risk of losing locs. If your loc extensions are not attached securely, there's a chance that the extensions may fall out at unexpected times. You can minimize this risk by taking your time during installation and checking your locs for secureness from time to time.
Dos and Don'ts of Loc Extensions
Loc extensions are not the simplest style. This is why we want to share some dos and don'ts to help keep you on track.
Dos
- Shop around for quality loc extensions. Not every loc extension shop produces quality loc extensions.
- Give yourself more time than you think you need to make and install your loc extensions. It could take you hours to days to complete your loc extensions.
- Consult a professional if necessary. Though it's great to save money and do things for yourself, loc extensions are a long-term commitment and should be done right the first time.
Don'ts
- Don't attach the lock extensions too close to your scalp. This can be painful and make it impossible to twist your roots.
- Don't attach thick extensions to small sections of hair, as the extension's weight can cause thinning roots.
- Keep your lock extensions at a reasonable length. Extremely long extensions can put too much stress on your roots.
Related Articles
Now you know exactly how to do loc extensions. We hope that this article gives you all the information you need to create gorgeous loc extensions yourself.
