Curly dreadlocks are often called locs. While a lot of people still use the term “dreadlocks” or “dreads,” “locs” has become the more appropriate and culturally respectful term to refer to this style.
Knowing the right name not only makes things clearer but also honors the heritage of the style in question.
Locs vs. Dreadlocks
Locs is the current term that specifies intention, care, and individuality. This is an organic style of locs to achieve, with the hair being curled, twisted or palm rolled rope-like strands. Unlike the term “dreadlocks,” which has a history some find negative, “locs” emphasizes pride and cultural expression.
And it’s not considered up-to-date terminology. “There’s still a lot of positivity around the word ‘dreadlocks,’ but being able to say ‘locs’ is more empowering and it’s less misunderstood,” people_are_dumb said.
Types of Curly Locs
If your hair naturally curls and locks separately without much manipulation, then you have freeform locs. They are organic and self-form with minimal intrusion.
Man-made locs are on the other hand, created by using certain methods such as twisting, braiding, or palm-rolling to direct the appearance and thickness of each loc.
For those who want the look but don’t want to be committed long term, faux locs involve extensions or synthetic hair that gives the same look with some versatility.
Final Thoughts
So, what do you call curly dreadlocks? The more appropriate and respectful term is locs. As an individual stylist, your freeform locs, meticulously kept hair, even your faux locs have identities, artistry, and cultural pride twisted through the strands.
The term “locs” just represents the roots of the origin of the style while also recognizing the beauty and strength in nature hair.
