Loc Extensions

Loc extensions add length, thickness, or both to existing locs (or, less commonly, to hair without locs). Whether you want instant length you’d otherwise wait years to grow, fuller locs to balance thinning, or you simply want a different look without committing to growing it out, extensions are how it’s done.

A skilled loctician can install extensions that blend so seamlessly with your natural locs that the join is invisible — but the quality of the result depends heavily on the loctician’s experience and the materials used.

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About Loc Extensions

Loc extensions are pre-made or custom-made locs attached to your natural hair to add length, thickness, or volume. They’re a popular service for loc-wearers wanting an immediate change without waiting for natural growth.

There are two main approaches:

Adding to existing locs. Pre-made loc extensions are attached to the bottom of existing locs to add length. The join is created using either an interlocking technique, a wrapping method, or by integrating the extension hair into the natural loc as it’s retwisted. Done well, the join is invisible.

Installing locs as extensions on loose hair. For people who want the loc look without committing to a full natural loc journey — or who want to add density to thinning natural locs — full sets of extension locs can be installed using small sections of natural hair as anchor points.

Materials commonly used:

  • Human hair extensions — most natural appearance, blend best with your natural hair, longer-lasting. The premium choice.
  • Synthetic kanekalon — more affordable, wider colour range, lighter weight, but doesn’t last as long and looks slightly different from human hair.
  • Yak or wool hair — used for specific aesthetic effects, less common in the UK but available from specialist locticians.

The right material depends on your goal, budget, and how long you want the extensions to last. Most UK locticians offer human hair as standard with synthetic as a more affordable alternative.

Typical cost

Loc extension pricing varies enormously based on the type of extension, the material, and the install method.

UK pricing guides:

  • Adding length to existing locs (per loc): £8–£25 per loc
  • Full set of loc extensions on loose hair: £400–£1,500+
  • Adding density (filling out thinning natural locs): £50–£300 depending on coverage needed

Material costs are typically separate from labour:

  • Human hair extension hair: £100–£400+ for a full set
  • Synthetic kanekalon: £30–£100 for a full set

Some locticians source the extension hair for you (charged on top of labour); others ask you to provide your own. Always clarify which arrangement applies before booking.

The total cost of a full set of human hair loc extensions in the UK typically lands between £500 and £2,000 including materials. Synthetic-only sets can be done for £200–£500.

Who this is for

Loc extensions suit several distinct client types:

Loc-wearers wanting instant length. Growing locs to mid-back length naturally takes 4–7 years. Extensions can add that length in a single appointment.

Anyone with thinning locs. Natural locs sometimes thin at the roots over time, particularly if retwisted too frequently. Extensions can add density and balance the head.

People who want locs without the journey. Loc extensions on loose hair give the loc aesthetic immediately, with the option to either grow them out into permanent locs over time or remove them after a few months.

Special occasion clients. Some clients install extensions for a wedding, performance, or specific event, then have them removed afterwards.

People for whom extensions are usually wrong: anyone with severe scalp tension issues (extensions add weight), anyone wanting the lowest possible cost (synthetic options are cheaper but extensions are never the cheapest hairstyle), and anyone with a strong preference for natural-only hair (extensions, even human hair, aren’t your own).

Showing 1-14 of 21 results
Locs By Eve

Locs By Eve

Islington, London
Loc Extensions Microlocs Retwist
Locking methods: Backcombing, Crochet, Interlocking, Palm rolling, Two-strand twists
Also offers: Consultations, Kids' locs, Loc repair, Occasion styling
from £75

What to expect at the appointment

Loc extension appointments are long but usually shorter than starter loc installations.

Consultation and material confirmation. Your loctician will agree the type, length, colour, and material of the extensions, plus the install method. This is the moment to confirm the join technique — ask to see examples of similar work they’ve done.

Preparing the natural hair. If extensions are being added to existing locs, the natural locs are washed and prepped first. If extensions are being installed as a full set on loose hair, the loose hair is sectioned according to the planned loc pattern.

Installation. Each extension is attached one at a time using the chosen method. For human hair extensions added to existing locs, this typically takes 4–8 hours for a full head. Full extension sets on loose hair can take 8–16 hours.

Blending and finishing. Once attached, extensions are styled, palm-rolled, or interlocked at the join to encourage seamless integration. Some locticians dry the extensions under a hood to set the join.

Aftercare. You’ll receive specific aftercare instructions for extensions: how to wash without dislodging the join, what products to use (or avoid), how to sleep with them, and when to return for maintenance.

The first few washes are when extensions can come loose if the install wasn’t tight; this is why the loctician’s skill matters so much. A good install holds for months.

Loc Extensions FAQs

How long do loc extensions last?
Human hair extensions blended into natural locs can last several years and grow out as your natural hair grows. Synthetic extensions typically last 4–8 months before needing replacement. Full extension sets installed on loose hair last as long as you maintain them — they can be grown out into permanent locs or removed.
Will extensions damage my natural hair?
Properly installed extensions don’t damage natural hair. Poorly installed extensions — too tight, too heavy, or with the wrong join technique — can cause traction alopecia at the roots. Choose an experienced loctician.
Can I wash hair with loc extensions?
Yes, with care. Avoid aggressive scrubbing at the join in the first few washes after installation. After the join has settled (usually 2–4 weeks), washing is normal.
Are extensions reversible?
Extensions added to existing locs are largely permanent — they grow out with your hair. Full extension sets installed on loose hair can be removed by combing them out, though this is time-consuming.
Can I dye loc extensions?
Human hair extensions can be dyed before installation. Synthetic extensions cannot be dyed and come pre-coloured. Dyeing extensions after installation risks damage and inconsistent colour.

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