Thinking about small locs? Small locs are a popular option. They are thin and narrow locs. Give you versatility in styling. Also lightweight. In this article, we will tell you all about small locs. Different styles of small locs. How to choose the right size. Ways to install them. Tips for maintenance. How to accessorize small locs.
Small locs work for all hair types. Look great on men and women. Don’t require a lot of upkeep. Comfortable and easy to manage. Read the complete article and see they are perfect for you or not. By the end, you’ll know if small locs are a good choice.
What are Small Locs?
Small locs are thin, narrow locs. They are much smaller than traditional thicker locs. The locks of hair are tightly twisted or braided close to the scalp. This encourages them to mat and form locs over time. Small locs are usually around the thickness of a pencil or thinner. Some can be as thin as sewing thread. They are also lightweight as compared to thicker locs.
The size of small locs makes them easier to manage than thicker locs. Retwisting and maintenance is less work. The locs may be left loose or combined together into styles like braids or updos. Beads and jewelry can also be added. Small locs give a neat, uniform appearance. They can look formal for work or events. Or laidback and casual for every day.
Small Locs Size Chart
| Loc Size | Diameter Range |
|---|---|
| Extra Small | Less than 1/8 inch |
| Small | Around 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch |
| Medium Small | Around 1/4 inch to 3/8 inch |
| Medium | Around 3/8 inch to 1/2 inch |
| Large | Over 1/2 inch |
When choosing your small loc size, keep this size chart in mind. Extra small locs are thinner than a pencil. Small locs are about the width of a pencil or drinking straw. Medium small locs are slightly thicker but still considered small. Medium locs are the max thickness before getting into larger locs.
Measure out your desired diameter on a ruler. Or compare to common objects like pencils, straws or string. Installing extra small or small locs will result in a very slim loc. Medium small gives a bit more thickness.
Small Locs Styles
There are so many options for styling small locs. Lots of ways to personalize your small locs. Modern, funky, artsy and more. Explore the different small loc styles given below:
1. Small Faux Locs
Small faux locs use hair extensions. The extensions come pre-twisted into slim, small locs. They are installed by attaching the pre-made small faux locs to your natural hair. This is done using the crochet method. Small faux locs give you an instant loc look. Without having to actually loc your own hair.
The faux loc extensions can be removed easily when ready. No commitment to keep them long term. Small faux locs are lightweight. The small size makes them easy to style into updos and designs. Adding hair jewelry like beads, cowrie shells or gold cuffs completes the look.
2. Small Butterfly Locs
Small butterfly locs flare out at the ends. This gives a butterfly wing shape. The locs start small and narrow near the scalp. They gradually widen toward the ends. To get this shape, small sections of hair are twisted tightly at the roots. Left looser toward the tips. Or pre-twisted hair extensions are installed. The extensions are tapered to create the flare.
The butterfly shape is dramatic yet elegant. Unlike long butterfly locs, small butterfly locs tend to be on the longer side. When worn down, the ends flutter gracefully.
3. Small Soft Locs
As name suggests, small soft locs have a smooth, silky texture. They feel ultra soft to the touch. To get this softness, the hair is thoroughly moisturized during installation. Soft hold gels or lightweight creams are applied as the locs are formed. The locs are also lightly twisted or braided at the roots. Left looser overall.
Regular moisturizing keeps small soft locs supple. Dryness causes frizz and roughness. The soft texture and flexible shape allow small soft locs to be very versatile. Style them free-flowing or in updos. Even add curls or braids.
4. Small Starter Locs
Small starter locs are installed early in the locing process. They are the initial thin, young locs. The hair is sectioned into very small parts first. Then twisted or braided to form the slim starter locs. During this first phase, the locs are not fully formed or tightened yet. Over weeks and months, the starter locs will naturally thicken and mat. They converted into thicker, traditional locs.
Keeping the starter sections small results in thin, narrow mature locs. Bigger sections create thicker locs. Small starter locs require more patience at first. But the end result is beautiful, slender mature locs and you will be pleased.
5. Small Traditional Locs
Small traditional locs follow the classic loc method. They are installed by twisting or braiding the hair into very small sections. The hair naturally meshes and mats together over time. No extensions or pre-made coils are used.
Small sections lead to slim, narrow locs. Larger sections create thicker traditional locs. It can take 4-6 months for full locking with small sections. Patience is required. Once matured, small traditional locs require occasional maintenance. Like retwisting roots or palm rolling. Small traditional locs offer versatility too. Style them loose or braided together.
6. Medium Small Locs
Medium small locs are a size in between small and medium locs. They offer a compromise. With medium small locs, sections are bigger than small locs but smaller than medium. Medium small locs are slimmer than a pencil but fuller than a thread. About the thickness of a chopstick or guitar string.
Medium small locs are not as thin and wispy as extra small locs. But not too bulky. They are fuller than small locs but still lightweight. Easy to style and manage. Installation is quicker than tiny sections needed for small locs. Maintenance is moderate.
Medium small locs offer versatility too. Wear hair down, up or combined together. This size gives a balance of loc volume while still keeping a small loc look.
7. Small Goddess Locs
Feel like a queen with small goddess locs. Slim, coiled locs inspired by Queen Nefertiti. Graceful, elegant coils radiate beauty. Add beads, bands, cuffs like Nefertiti did. Let the coils flow freely. Or tie into an updo. Channel your inner queen with small goddess locs.
8. Small Two Strand Twist Starter Locs
Small two strand twists make the perfect starter locs. To begin, part hair into tiny sections. Take each slim section and twist it into two strands. Twist down to the very ends. Keep these starter twists in for several weeks. Let the natural locing process start. New growth at the roots will begin meshing and matting as locs form. Over time, the two strand twist starters will mature into thin permanent locs.
The small skinny starters ensure finished locs stay narrow. Not too bulky. Retwist when roots loosen up. Combine twists into styles as locs thicken. Small two strands give versatility too. Can loc straight or curly hair.
9. Extra Small Locs
Extra small locs are the slimmest, skinniest loc size. They are thinner than pencil. To get extra small locs, part hair into tiny sections. Smaller than small locs. Install by twisting, braiding or interlocking very close to the scalp. Extra small starter locs will naturally thicken over time as they loc. But remain narrow.
The super slim size allows for intricate styles. And lots of loc quantity. Extra small locs are lightweight. Easy maintenance too. Use accessories like thin cuffs, mini beads and petite charms to decorate.
10. Small 6 Inch Locs
Small 6 inch locs are a short length style. The locs only extend to about 6 inches long. To get this look, small starter locs are installed. Then maintain the short length. As new growth appears, the ends are trimmed to keep locs at 6 inches. This length is versatile. Locs can hang down or be styled upwards into a faux hawk.
Small skinny locs paired with the short cut amplifies volume on top. For added flair, get creative with the trimmed ends. Color or curve them.
11. Small Instant Locs
Small instant locs provide an instant faux loc look. No waiting for locing. Pre-made, synthetic coil locs are installed. The coils are very skinny. Sections of hair are braided first. Coils are attached using a crochet needle.
The instant locs hang like natural locs. But are removable when desired. The tiny, thin coils mimic a freshly installed small loc look right away. Style instantly too. Wear the coils loose, up or combined together.
12. Small Wicks Locs
Small wicks locs are a unique hybrid style. They combine locs with curled wick ends. To get this look, small loc coils are installed first. Then the ends of each loc are stretched and permed into a wavy curl. The curly wick contrasts the straight coil above it and this adds flair.
Wicks work well with small locs since the coil stays narrow. Not too bulky. As an alternative, small faux locs with pre-curled ends can be installed too.
13. Small Distressed Locs
Small distressed locs have a loose, imperfect look. The locs appear effortlessly formed. To get this style, small locs are installed with roots left loose. Or allowance for new growth. The distressed look comes from the imperfect neatness and frizz. As if twisting just happened.
For extra texture, curl or lightly backcomb the locs. To add flyaway hairs. Leaving locs a bit messy gives an undone vibe. Yet the slim size keeps the style in check. Small distressed locs are perfect for a casual, laidback look. No need to fuss over perfection.
14. Small Short Soft Locs
Small short soft locs combine two popular loc styles. Short locs with a soft texture. To get this look, small soft locs are installed. The length is kept cropped short. Frequent trimming maintains the short length as locs grow out.
The short length shows off the soft loc texture. Flowy but not heavy. Small short soft locs are bouncy and movable. Easy to style up or down. This cropped length is great for guys or gals. Low maintenance too.
15. Natural Small Locs
Natural small locs are installed without synthetic hair added. Keeping it 100% your own hair. To get natural small locs, simply section clean hair into tiny parts. Then twist, coil or braid. Over weeks, the sections will loc on their own as hair mats. No pre-made extensions needed.
Natural small locs may take longer to install and form than faux styles. But are healthier long term. The locing process should be given time to work naturally. Trying to rush it can cause damage. Natural small locs will be your real, authentic hair. The way nature intended locs to form.
16. Small Locs with Curly Ends
Small locs with curly ends put a fun twist on traditional slim locs. To get this look, small starter locs are installed first. Allowed to loc. Once locs mature, the ends are rolled or twisted to encourage curling. Or small faux locs may be used with pre-curled synthetic ends attached.
The curly ends provide a playful contrast to the straight, narrow loc shafts. Curls soften the loc look overall. Add movement and bounce. The curl size can vary too. From tight spirals to loose waves. Get creative.
17. Small Coil Locs
Small coil locs have a springy, spiraled texture. To get coils, small sections of hair are twisted tightly from root to tip. Twisting the hair tightly from roots to ends shapes it into slim bouncy springs. The coils curl up naturally as they loc.
Small coils are bouncy and flexible. They hold styles like finger coils do. For a smoother look, coils can be combined together into chunky twists. Coil ends may also be stretched out into wavy tips or curled under. The options are endless with small springy coils.
18. Small Crochet Locs
The crochet method can be used to install small locs. It requires a special needle called interlocking small locs crochet needle. Small sections of hair are parted first. Then the crochet needle is used to interlock and pull hair. This anchors each section into a neat, slim loc right near the scalp.
The pulling action of the crochet needle encourages natural matting as locs form. Small crochet locs have a rounded, bumpy texture. Almost like twisted cords. Maintenance involves occasional re-crocheting new growth to keep locs tight.
19. Small Two Strand Twist Locs
Two strand twists make great starters for thin locs. Part hair into small sections first. Take each section and divide into two strands. Twist down close to the scalp. Keep starter twists in for several weeks to initiate locing at the roots.
New growth will begin meshing and matting to form locs. Over time, the two strand starters will lock into slim, narrow locs. Locs can be combined or left separated. Retwist when roots loosen up. The skinny two strand starters ensure finished locs stay narrow. Not thick.
20. Small 16 Inch Locs
Small 16 inch locs fall around shoulder length for many. This is a classic loc length. To get 16 inch small locs, start with skinny sections at the roots. Install twists or coils. As locs mature, allow them to grow out to 16 inches before trimming. At this length, small locs are still manageable. Easy to style up or down.
For volume, sweep locs to one side. Or tie half up and leave half down. The movement of 16 inch small locs creates a fluid, natural rhythm.
21. Palm Rolling Small Locs
Palm rolling helps set and maintain small locs. It tightens roots and neatens frizz. Apply light oil or locking gel to the locs. Rub palms together to distribute. Gently roll and squeeze each loc between the palms, working from root to tip.
Small locs make palm rolling quicker than thicker locs. Easier on hands. Focus on smoothing and shaping the loc into a uniform cylinder. Palm rolling new growth trains hair to loc in the direction you want. For best results, palm roll small locs after washing. And between retwists.
22. Small Bohemian Locs
Small bohemian locs have a relaxed, carefree vibe. These locs radiate carefree, hippie chic vibes. Classic boho beauty. To get this look, small locs are installed with roots and ends left a bit loose. The locs don’t have to be perfectly smooth or neat. Frizz and texture is embraced.
Boho styles are often accessorized with wooden beads, cowrie shells or wraps. Small bohemian locs can be worn down in a free-flowing mane. Or tied up messily. Rocking small boho locs lets your free spirit and creativity run wild.
23. Small Freeform Locs
Small freeform locs take a natural, low maintenance approach. Hair is sectioned into small parts first. Then simply allowed to loc over time. No twisting, braiding or palm rolling is done. The locing happens naturally. Some separating and combining may be done as locs form. To control thickness.
Small sections enable the mature freeform locs to stay slim. Not bulky. Let the locs do their thing. Embrace the organic, carefree process. The end result is authentic small locs with raw natural texture.
24. Small Micro Locs
Small micro locs take slim locs to the extreme. They are tiny and thinner than pencil size. To get micro locs, hair is sectioned into microscopic parts. Barely visible sections. These are twisted, coiled or braided tightly to the scalp to start forming locs.
Small micro loc journey can be of 6 weeks to 6 months for full locking with micro sections. But the time pays off. This results in a head full of tiny, wispy locs. Almost gives a textured look overall. Micro locs allow for intricate styles like micro braids. Lightweight and low maintenance too.
25. Small Twist Locs
Small twist locs are installed by twisting hair into slim sections. Part clean hair into small sections first. Apply locking gel for hold. Grasp each section and twist repeatedly from root to tip. Keep twisting until the hair starts to coil and loc. Palm roll new growth as needed to train hair in the twist direction.
Small twists make styling versatile too. Wear twists down or tie up. The twisting method allows salon installation or DIY at home.
26. Small Yarn Locs
Small yarn locs add a burst of color unlike traditional locs. Thin yarn braids are installed to form the small locs. Synthetic or human hair yarn is used. Small sections of your natural hair are braided first. Yarn is wrapped around the braids. The yarn-wrapped braids create instant faux locs with a handmade vibe.
Small yarn locs are lightweight. Pick any color yarn your heart desires. The options are unlimited. Studded beads and shells provide the artistic look. Mix and match beautiful colors and fabrics. Craft a unique loc masterpiece.
27. Small Diamond Part Locs
Small diamond part locs add shape and visual interest. The locs are sectioned and installed in a diamond pattern design. This creates geometric angles and negative space between the locs. To get the diamond look, part clean hair first into square sections. Then divide each square diagonally corner to corner. Twist each triangle loc.
The diamond styling works well on small, slim locs. Not bulky or heavy. Add beads at the pointed ends for an amplified effect.
28. Small Dread Locs
Small dread locs give edgy style with less maintenance needs. The term “dreadlocks” refers to freeform locking of hair over time. To get small dreads, section hair into very small parts first. Allow the sections to loc naturally without manipulation.
Some palm rolling or combining may help shape the slim dreads. Small dread diameter means they are easy to style up or down. Embrace the textured, organic look of teeny dread locs.
29. Small Genie Locs
Small genie locs are inspired by the cinched ponytails of genies. To get this look, small locs are installed all going away from the face. The locs flow out and downward from a center hairline part.
Creating a framed curtain of small locs around the head. For special occasions, wrap locs into a high genie pony. Or leave hair down for an ethereal genie effect. Charm and mystique come through with small genie locs.
30. Small Locs Pipe Curls
Small locs pipe curls incorporate rolled edges for flair. To get the curled look, small locs are twisted and set overnight on rods. The rods mold and shape the loc edges into rounded curls. Remove rods in the morning to reveal pipe-like curls framing the face.
Pipe curls work especially well on starter locs or shorter lengths. The curls soften small locs and outline the face and neck elegantly.
31. Small Locs with Fade
A fade haircut gives small locs an edgy style. It contrasts lengths. The fade is trimmed short at the sides and back. Hair at the crown stays longer. This allows the small locs on top to hang longer, while sides are shaved.
Creating a faded loc mohawk effect. The contrast of long locs on top with shaved sides screams edgy style. Fierce and fashion-forward. Maintenance requires re-fading side hair as it grows out. For added edge, get a carved line design with the fade.
32. Small Sister Locs
Small sister locs are tiny, uniform locs inspired by Sisterlocks. The trademarked Sisterlocks system uses very small, precise parts to start locs. To get a similar look, part hair into many equal slim sections. Coil or twist each. Installing at the salon ensures symmetry. But DIY is possible too.
The tiny uniform locs create a smooth, complete look overall. Almost re-texturizes hair. Frequent retightening of roots maintains the polished finish. Let locs loc naturally. Customize small sister locs with color or accessories. Lots of versatility.
Small Locs Installation
Installing small locs takes patience but achieves gorgeous results. Follow these steps:
Required Small Locs Tools
- Small loc hair extensions or your own natural hair
- Interlocking small locs crochet needle
- Small sectioning clips
- Small rubber bands
- Locking gel
Step 1: Part Hair into Small Sections
Part hair cleanly into slim, small sections using clips. Parting size determines loc thickness.
Step 2: Apply Product
Apply locking gel smoothly from root to tip of each section. Helps encourage locing.
Step 3: Twist or Coil Loc Sections
Grasp each section and twist or coil tightly. Make sure to repeat from root to end to encourage matting.
Step 4: Combine and Interlock Small Locs
Install starter locs using interlocking, crochet needle, two strand twists, coils, or extensions.
Step 5: Secure Ends
Once sections are installed, secure ends with rubber bands to keep starters formed.
Here is a YouTube video which explains small locs installation.
Small Locs Accessories
Accessorizing small locs allows you to put your personal stamp on the style. Mix and match beautiful colors, fabrics, metals, stones. The options for small loc bling are endless. Order the accessories online or purchase them from any shop.
Small Locs Extensions
- Pre-twisted synthetic hair is added for length, thickness and styling options.
- Attached using crochet method or micro links. Easy to remove.
Extra Small Locs Extensions
- For a wispy look, use extensions with super slim diameter like yarn or synthetic fiber.
- Wrap or crochet extensions tightly to form micro-thin locs.
Loc Jewelry for Small Locs
- Decorative metal, wood or gem jewelry attaches to small locs.
- Try coil cuffs, cylinder beads, row chains, or wrap links.
Peri Loc Small Frag
- Soft plastic wraps fuse around the loc to add color and texture.
- Available in versions for thin, medium, or thick locs.
Small Locs For Different Individuals
The versatility of small locs works for all genders. Both women and men can rock this style beautifully.
Small Locs for Females
Girls should keep locs long and free-flowing for a feminine boho vibe. Frame the face with curly pipe locs or heart-shaped parts. Weave in bright yarn or soft extensions for a soft, whimsical look.
Small Locs for Men
Opt for a cropped fade cut with longer small locs on top for an edgy style. Use black rubber bands or matte beads for a masculine finish. Style locs pulled back into a man bun or flowing out naturally.
Small Locs on Different Hair
One of the best things about small locs is that they can work on various hair types including natural as well as other hair.
Small Locs on Natural Hair
When installing small locs on natural hair, opt for slim two strand twists or finger coils to encourage natural locking. Palm roll the roots frequently to train new growth. The locing process may take a few months but allows hair to form authentic, organic small locs.
Small Locs on Fine Hair
For fine hair that needs added volume, try small faux locs extensions. The lightweight pre-made synthetic locs give the appearance of fuller locks without excessive weight. Use a small crochet needle to install the extensions securely.
Small Locs on Short Hair
To rock small locs on a short cut, maintain them at a cropped length as they form. A curly perm on the ends can add shape and style. Short locs are easier to manage than long and won’t hang down.
Small Locs on 4C Hair
4C hair naturally forms into slim coils perfect for small locs. Opt for starter locs using the finger coil method. Coil each section tightly from roots to ends. No need to combine coils as hair will loc easily.
Small Locs on Thick Hair
For thick hair, keep sections on the smaller side when starting locs to prevent them from becoming too bulky. Palm roll and combine locs as needed to control thickness. Crochet interlocking can help tame really thick hair into uniform small locs.
Small Locs on Thin Hair
To create the look of fuller small locs on thin hair, attach faux loc extensions. Pre-looped synthetic hair interlocks securely with less stress on delicate hair. Curl the ends under for added thickness.
Small Locs on Black Hair
Small locs can be perfect for black hair seeking versatility. Use a two strand twist method on virgin black hair to encourage natural locking of the coils. Combine or separate locs as desired once locking begins.
Difference Between Small Locs and Other Locs
Small locs have some distinct differences from other loc sizes and types.
Small Locs vs Microlocs
Small locs are slimmer than invisible locs but not as thin as microlocs. Microlocs are super tiny, thinner than a pencil. Small locs have more volume, in the pencil to straw size range.
Small Locs vs Medium Locs
Small locs are narrower than medium locs, which have about double the diameter. Medium locs are as thick as a marker or pinky finger. Small locs appear thinner and wispier.
Small Locs vs Sisterlocks
Sisterlocks are uniform, precisely parted small locs. Small locs can have more variation in size, don’t require perfect precision, and may be installed at home.
Small Locs vs Big Locs
Big locs are much thicker, like rope size. Small locs have a narrow diameter. They are minimum 1/8 inch and maximum 1/4 inch wide. Big locs require less maintenance but can be heavy.
Caring for Small Locs
Caring for small locs helps them look their best. Here is a list of tips:
- Wash locs weekly with a residue-free shampoo. Rinse thoroughly.
- Moisturize regularly with water-based creams to prevent dryness. Massage into the loc shafts.
- Retwist small locs as roots loosen up, about every 4-6 weeks. Palm roll with locking gel to neaten.
- Trim ends if they start to thin and become straggly. Remove only a tiny amount.
- Sleep with a satin cap or loc sock to maintain moisture and minimize frizz.
- Style locs gently to avoid too much pull and stress that can cause thinning.
With proper care, small locs can grow long and remain strong. Daily moisturizing is key for lush, healthy locs.
Cost of Small Locs
The cost to get small locs depends on the installation method and if you’re going to do it yourself or go to a professional.
Getting small locs at a salon typically costs $150 to $300. Pricing varies based on loc style and length. Small sisterlocs can be $500+ from specialists.
Doing small locs at home has minimal costs. You’ll need locking gel for $10 or tools like a crochet hook for $5. The cost of small locs using no gel is less.
Maintenance costs like retwisting small locs every 4-6 weeks typically ranges from $50 to $150. Trims every few months may cost $20 to $60.
Keep in mind that doing your own retwists and styling can save money but it requires experience. Meet a consultation to pick the method best for your budget.
Small Locs Pros and Cons
Small locs offer many benefits but also some potential drawbacks to consider.
Pros
- More styling versatility than thicker locs. Can wear hair up or down.
- Lightweight and airy. Not bulky or hot on the head.
- Faster installation time compared to thicker loc sections.
- Low maintenance. Retwist only every 4-6 weeks.
- Volume and length with narrow locs. Achieve a fuller look.
Cons
- Staying power not as strong as thicker locs. Can loosen faster.
- More sectioning and parting time during installation.
- Not as convenient for active lifestyles. Can come undone easier.
- Some methods like sisterlocs require precise retightening.
- Ends can thin out over time. May need occasional trimming.
Conclusion
Dreaming of locs but want a low-maintenance look? Small locs are your perfect solution. You’ll love the versatility small locs give your hair game.
Find the ideal small loc method for your hair type and goals. Take it slow and let those skinny locs form naturally. Then get ready to show off your new head-turning ‘do. Small locs will have you walking with confidence and style.
