The Ultimate Guide to Braids, Locs, and Wig Installs Explained Simply
A plain-English guide to the three biggest categories of Afro hair services. What braids, locs and wig installs really are, who they suit, how long they last and what to ask for when booking.
Braids. Locs. Wig installs.
Three of the most asked-about Afro hair categories, and three of the most misunderstood. Each one has dozens of variations, different price points, different lifespans and different aftercare.
This is the ultimate plain-English guide. No fluff. Just what each style is, who it suits, and how to book it without confusion.
Braids: The Big Picture
Braids are sectioned styles where the hair is woven into a pattern, often with extensions added.
They give you:
- Length.
- Definition.
- Several weeks of low-maintenance hair.
- Almost endless styling options.
Knotless Braids
Start with your natural hair and feed extensions in gradually.
- Less tension at the root.
- Lighter weight.
- A more natural, lived-in finish.
Lifespan: 4 to 8 weeks.
Box Braids
Sectioned into clean boxes with a knot at the root.
- Defined and structured.
- Hold styling for longer.
- Slightly heavier on the scalp.
Lifespan: 4 to 8 weeks.
Cornrows and Stitch Braids
Braids that lie flat against the scalp.
- Quick to do.
- Often used as a base for wig installs.
- Great for active lifestyles.
Lifespan: 1 to 3 weeks.
Twists
Two strands of hair twisted together rather than braided.
- Softer look than braids.
- Easier to take down.
- Comes in many styles, mini, passion, Senegalese, Marley.
Locs: The Big Picture
Locs are formed when hair locks together over time. Modern locs come in many forms, some permanent, some temporary.
They give you:
- A long-term hair journey.
- Strong cultural and personal meaning for many.
- Striking, defined silhouettes.
Traditional Locs
Permanent locs grown over time. Maintained with retwists or interlocking.
- Long-term commitment.
- Low daily styling.
- Lots of variety in size and shape.
Sisterlocks and Microlocs
Smaller, finer locs that look closer to natural curls.
- Very versatile styling.
- More appointments to install.
- A lighter, finer feel.
Faux Locs and Soft Locs
Temporary locs created with extensions, no commitment required.
- Try the look without locking permanently.
- Lifespan of 4 to 6 weeks.
- Can be styled like real locs.
Wig Installs: The Big Picture
A wig install is when your natural hair is braided down and a wig is fitted on top.
They give you:
- Total flexibility in look.
- A break for your real hair underneath.
- A faster styling routine on most days.
Glueless Installs
Held in place with a band, combs or clips.
- Gentle on edges.
- Easy to remove.
- Great for everyday wear.
Lace Front Installs
A wig with a lace section that creates a natural-looking hairline.
- Most realistic finish.
- Often customised, plucked, bleached or tinted.
- Held with adhesive or band.
Customisation Services
You can also book a stylist just to:
- Pluck and tint a wig.
- Bleach the knots.
- Cut and style.
You bring the wig. They turn it into yours.
How to Decide What to Book
Ask yourself:
- Do I want a long-term commitment or a short-term style.
- Do I want to switch looks often.
- How much time can I sit for.
- How much do I want to spend.
On All Done, you can compare every category side by side, see real prices and book in a few taps.
“Once you understand the categories, the rest of the decision is simple. The right style is the one your hair, your time and your wallet all agree on.”