How Do I Choose Between Partial Locs And A Full Head Of Locs?

So… you’ve decided you want locs! ✨

First of all - congratulations! Starting your loc journey is such an exciting step.

But now comes the next big question…

Should you choose partial locs or go all in with a full head? 🤔

The truth is, there’s no right or wrong answer. It all comes down to your lifestyle, personal style and how big of a change you’re ready for.

Let’s explore the differences to help you decide! 🌿

🌸 What Are Partial Locs?

Partial locs are exactly what they sound like!

Instead of installing locs throughout your whole head, only a few rows are added underneath, with your natural hair left loose over the top.

This creates a much more subtle look while still giving you the beauty and texture of locs.

Partial locs can be created using both real and synthetic locs. 💛

🌿 What Is A Full Head Of Locs?

A full head means all of your hair is transformed into locs.

Whether you choose real or synthetic locs, this creates a complete new look and often feels like a whole new chapter!

Some people also choose to leave a loose fringe or front section, but most opt for a full transformation ✨

💫 Looking For A Subtle Change?

If you’d like to dip your toe into the world of locs without making a huge change, partial locs could be perfect for you.

Because your natural hair falls over the top, they’re often less noticeable and can easily be styled to reveal as much or as little as you’d like.

They’re also a lovely option if you’re curious about locs but aren’t quite ready to commit to a full head just yet 😊

✨ Ready For A Whole New Look?

If you’ve been dreaming about locs for years and you’re ready to fully embrace them…

A full head might be exactly what you’re looking for! 😍

Many of our clients tell us they wish they’d done it sooner because they finally feel like themselves.

And if you’re choosing synthetic locs, this is also your chance to get creative with colours and styles! 🌈

⚖️ Are Partial Locs Lighter?

Yes!

Because there are fewer locs installed, partial locs naturally feel lighter than a full head.

If you’re worried about the weight or simply want to ease yourself into the experience, starting with partial locs can be a great option.

Over time, if you fall in love with them, you can always go for a full head later on. 💛

🌿 Which Option Is Easier To Look After?

There are pros and cons to both.

With partial locs, you’ll still have loose hair that needs caring for alongside your locs.

You’ll also want to separate your loose hair from your locs regularly to stop them becoming tangled together.

With a full head, your routine is often much simpler.

No styling your loose hair…

No worrying about bad hair days…

Just wake up, pop your locs into your favourite style and you’re ready to go! 🤭✨

💇‍♀️ What About Hairstyles?

Both options give you plenty of styling possibilities.

However, with partial locs you’ll always need to work around your loose hair.

With a full head of locs, you have complete freedom to create beautiful updos, buns, braids and other creative styles.

One of the biggest perks of locs? Once you’ve styled them in the morning, they usually stay put all day! 🙌

🌱 Will The Sections Be Visible?

Every set of locs is created using carefully planned sections.

With partial locs, these sections are usually hidden beneath your loose hair, making them much less noticeable.

With a full head, the sections are naturally more visible, especially when your locs are freshly installed.

As your locs mature and soften over time, they become much less defined and blend beautifully together 🌿

🥹 Worried About What Other People Might Think?

Sadly, there are still plenty of myths surrounding locs.

We’ve heard them all…

“You can’t wash them.”

“They must be dirty.”

“They’re unprofessional.”

None of those things are true! 😊

If you’re feeling nervous, partial locs can be a lovely stepping stone while you build confidence.

But if your heart is set on a full head of locs, don’t let other people’s opinions stop you.

After all… it’s your hair, your style and your journey! (And of course - we are your biggest cheerleaders and support you through this process!)

📏 Does Hair Length Matter?

It can!

Partial locs often look most natural when your own hair is a similar length to the locs themselves, helping everything blend together beautifully.

If your hair is much shorter, a full head of locs may create a more seamless overall look.

During a consultation, we’ll always discuss your hair length and recommend the option that will work best for you ✨

🌈 What About Colour?

If you’re choosing synthetic locs, colour opens up a whole world of possibilities!

With partial locs, many people prefer colours that closely match their natural hair for a soft, blended look.

With a full head, you have much more freedom to experiment.

Whether you want natural shades, subtle highlights or a bold transformation, the choice is entirely yours and we support you through that process!

💡 Final Thoughts: Which One Is Right For You?

There really isn’t a wrong choice.

Here’s a quick recap:

✅ Partial locs create a subtle, natural-looking change

✅ A full head offers a complete transformation

✅ Partial locs are generally lighter in weight

✅ Full heads are often simpler to style and maintain

✅ Partial locs can be a great first step if you’re unsure

✅ Choose the option that feels most like you

At the end of the day, the best choice is the one that makes you feel confident, comfortable and excited for your loc journey 🌿✨

✨ Still Not Sure?

If you’re still deciding between partial locs and a full head, don’t worry - we’re here to help!

We’d be more than happy to chat through your options, answer any questions and recommend the best choice based on your hair and your goals.

If you’d like to book a free consultation or get a quote, simply get in touch via our contact form.

We can’t wait to be part of your loc journey!