30 Beginner Short Loc Hairstyles for Women: Beautiful Ideas

Are you looking for a new hairstyle that is stylish and easy to manage? If so, short locs may be the perfect option for you!

Short locs are an increasingly popular style choice among women as they provide a low-maintenance look while still being versatile enough to create different styles.

From classic dreadlocks to braided updos and more, there are plenty of beginner short loc hairstyles that you can try out.

Whether you’re just starting your journey with natural hair or want a change from long locks, we’ve rounded up some of the best beginner short loc hairstyles for women.

Read on to discover some of our favorite beginner short dreadlock styles for ladies!

Best beginner short dread hairstyle ideas for women

If you’ve just started the journey of hairstyles for a short locs and are looking for a new hairstyle, then look no further. We’ve gathered some of the best medium length short dread styles for females to get you inspired.

1. Bantu knots

Bantu knots

Instagram/@goddesstryofme

Bantu knots are a popular hairstyle that originated in African culture and have been worn by many people around the world. The style consists of small, individual knots or twists in the hair that can be used to create a variety of looks, from a chic updo to romantic curls.

Bantu knots are perfect for women with short natural hair; the smaller size allows for more precise styling, giving you control over how you wear your look.

To create Bantu knots, start by sectioning off your hair into two-inch sections. Use a comb to detangle it and then use an oil-based moisturizer to ensure that your strands are hydrated and healthy.

Then twist each section until it forms the shape of a knot at the base. Secure with bobby pins if needed to keep it in place throughout the day.

Bantu knots

Instagram/@kanada_model

2. Two-strand twists

Two-strand twists are a beginner-friendly short loc hairstyle. Not only is this type of hairstyle easy to create and maintain, but it also offers an effortlessly beautiful look.

To start, you will need a comb or brush, a parting tool (such as a rat tail comb or chopstick), medium-hold gel or pomade, and water in a spray bottle.

Begin by sectioning off your hair into four to six parts that are equal in size. Start by working one part at a time. Using your parting tool, draw a straight line down the center of each section to divide it into two even parts.

Apply the gel or pomade to each section before twisting the two strands together. Begin at the roots and twist the two pieces until about two inches from the end. Do not twist too tightly; it is important not to strain your hair when creating this style.

Once you have finished with one section, secure the ends with an elastic band or bobby pin. Repeat these steps until all sections have been twisted and secured.

After completing all sections, use your spray bottle filled with water to dampen each strand and then gently fluff up each twist for more volume throughout the style if desired.

3. Sponge locs

Sponge locks, also known as twist locs, are a variation of traditional dreadlocks made from small sections of hair twisted into coils and left to form natural curls.

This type of hairstyle is ideal for people with medium to thick hair textures and is especially attractive on women with shorter hair lengths. To create sponge locks, the first step is to divide the hair into sections.

Begin by separating the front section from the back section, then separate each side in half again. Once you have all your sections divided, use a wide-tooth comb to detangle each one and make sure they’re nice and smooth before beginning the twisting process.

You can either use your fingers or a set of specially designed sponge loc tools to begin twisting the strands around each other until they become firm coils that stay in place when released.

4. Mohawk locs

Mohawk locs

Instagram/@hairbyadjeh

Mohawk locs are an edgy and bold style for women who want to make a statement. It is a dramatic departure from traditional loc styles that can be tailored to each individual’s personality and preference.

The mohawk loc style involves having the sides of your scalp shaven off and the remaining hair left in place as locs or braids. This look is often achieved using various types of styling products, including waxes, gels, and sprays.

Mohawk locs

Instagram/@tippylocs

5. Bun with locs

It is especially popular among those with shorter locs as it is an easy way to keep the hair tidy and neat. The look consists of twisting the locs into a spiral and securing them at the nape or top of the head. This style offers endless variations, making it both versatile and stylish.

Bun with locs

Instagram/@naturaloc.s

6. Comb coils

Comb coils are an easy and stylish short loc hairstyle for women that can be achieved in a relatively short amount of time. The style involves creating individual coils with a small comb or curling wand, usually on damp or wet hair, before styling into the desired look.

This style is great for those who want to maintain a more polished look while also keeping their locs looking neat and tidy.

Comb coils

Instagram/@nissyslocs

7. Bob faux locs

Faux locs are synthetic hair extensions that are used to create the appearance of traditional locs. Unlike true locs, faux locs can be removed easily and require little maintenance.

Bob faux locs offer many different styling options as well. You can choose between tight, loose, or even colored faux locs depending on your desired style.

The great thing about bob faux locs is that they can be worn in almost any hairstyle imaginable. Whether you have short or long hair, you can create an amazing look with the help of these versatile extensions.

Bob faux locs

Instagram/@sallie_d

8. Loc petals

Loc petals

Instagram/@thehausoflocs

Loc petals are a stylish and attractive way to add visual interest to your locs. They are created by gently separating the loc strands and shaping them into petal-like spirals, which can be added to the ends of each loc or interspersed throughout the entire style.

This look adds texture and definition to any hairstyle. Loc petals can be achieved with styling products like pomades, waxes, and gels, as well as through braiding and twisting techniques.

Loc petals

Instagram/@womenlocstyles

9. Cornrows locs

Cornrows locs

Instagram/@slayedbynyla

They are classic and often sported by African Americans, but can be created with any hair type. Cornrows offer a sleek look that adds dimension to the wearer’s style.

Cornrows are created by parting the hair into rows, then using an attachment to make small sections of three-strand plaits in each row. Generally, the body of the braid is kept close to the scalp while the ends of the braid hang loose or are tied off at the end.

The pattern of cornrows can range from simple single lines to intricate designs featuring geometric shapes and patterns. Cornrows can be used to add texture and interest to any style.

Cornrows locs

Instagram/@gloriannnn

10. Loc bangs

Loc bangs

Instagram/@locd.upraee

It adds a touch of edge and fun to the traditional style of locks, creating an eye-catching, trendy look that is perfect for any occasion. The style consists of keeping the hair short on the sides and back and leaving longer locs in the front.

These locs are cut into bangs that are swept to the side or across the forehead. The look is created by cutting the front pieces so that they start at different levels along the scalp, which creates a layered effect that frames the face nicely.

Loc bangs

Instagram/@envy.selena

11. Butterfly locs

Butterfly locs

Instagram/@stylesbychayy_

Butterfly locs are one of the newest and most popular short loc hairstyles for women. This style is created by cutting two-strand twists into the hair close to the scalp, creating a mohawk or fauxhawk style similar to a butterfly wing.

The ends are then left to hang freely, giving an elegant and exotic look. The great thing about butterfly locs is that they look amazing on all types of hair, from thick and curly to thin and straight.

Butterfly locs

Instagram/@locsbyzara

12. Locs with beads

Locs with beads

Instagram/@loc.journ

Locs with beads can be a fun and stylish way to update your look. The addition of beads to locs is a beautiful way to showcase individuality and creativity, as well as add color and texture to your styling options.

Locs with beads can range from subtle, small accent pieces to elaborate patterns and designs. A great way to start with locs with beads is by adding strands of glass or metal beads in varying colors and textures.

This type of design adds dimension and depth while still being subtle enough that you don’t feel overwhelmed with the look.

Locs with beads

Instagram/@janwithlocs

13. Locs with color

Locs with color

Instagram/@passion4_locs

Adding color to your locs can be a great way to express your personality and style. There are many different ways to incorporate color into your locs, all of which will result in a gorgeous and unique look.

The beauty of coloring your locs lies in its versatility – there are so many different ways to mix and match colors until you find one that fits your style perfectly!

With temporary washes and semi-permanent bleaches available in various shades; as well as colorful bead accessories; it has never been easier to customize your natural hairstyle with some added flair!

Locs with color

Instagram/@queen_ash_llc

14. Criss-cross locs

Criss-cross locs

Instagram/@q4hsalon

Criss-cross locs are a great way to add dimension and style to your locs. This style is achieved by weaving two strands of hair together in a criss-cross pattern.

The result is an intricate design that adds texture and depth to your locks. This style can be achieved with any length of hair and works especially well with short locs.

Criss-cross locs

Instagram/@simplylocd_h2o

These are just a few of the many short loc hairstyles for women. With so many options available, you’re sure to find one that suits your style and personality. No matter which look you choose, you’ll be sure to make a statement!

https://youtu.be/lJqa8Z4t7us

Tips to take care of locs

Maintaining healthy locs is an important part of having beautiful, long-lasting dreadlocks. Taking proper care of your dreadlocks will help them look their best and promote healthy growth. Here are some tips to help keep your locs in the best condition possible:

short locs updo styles

Moisturize: Regularly moisturize your dreadlocks with a light oil or cream. This will help lock in moisture and prevent dryness and breakage. Be sure to use products specifically designed for dreadlocks, as they won’t interfere with the locking process like traditional shampoos and oils can.

Cleaning: Avoid washing your locs too frequently, as this can strip them of natural oils that protect and nurture them over time. When you do need to shampoo, use gentle, sulfate-free cleansers specifically formulated for dreadlocks to maintain their health and shape.

Support: Avoid sleeping on cotton pillowcases which can cause friction on your locs throughout the night – instead opt for sleeping with a silk/satin scarf around your hair to avoid any potential damage being caused by contact with the material of the pillowcase itself.

By following these tips, you can keep your locs healthy and looking their best for years to come! With proper care, maintenance, and protection, you’ll be able to enjoy beautiful dreadlocks for a long time.

short locs updo styles

Beginner Short Dreads Styles for Ladies – FAQ

What is the difference between locs and dreads?

Unlike locs, dreadlocks are not cultivated and often have strong ties to Rastafarianism– a religion that uses the style as a form of distinction between its believers and non-believers. Additionally, in terms of their aesthetic look, locs appear primly kept while dreadlocks give off an organic vibe.

How short is too short for locs?

By using the backcombing technique, your hair follicles will knot and lock together more quickly. If you have short strands, we suggest waiting until it reaches an inch to three inches in length before attempting to create dreadlocks. This allows for sufficient hair control and manipulation when forming locks.

Beginner Short Locs Updo Styles – Summary

Loc hairstyles for short hair are a popular and stylish choice for women of all ages. Whether you’re just starting out with natural hair or want a change from long locks, there are plenty of beginner short loc hairstyles that are easy to create and maintain.

From Bantu knots to butterfly locs, these styles provide an effortless yet chic look that is perfect for any occasion. So go ahead and try out one or more of these short loc styles for females today! You’ll be sure to love the results.

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Allyson Carter

Ally is a professional hairstylist with more than 6 years of experience, but hair has been her passion since early childhood. Here, at Hair Spies, she blogs about all things hairdressing, hair tools, and everyday hair care. Read more about Allyson here.

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