Aug 03, 2026

Waterfall Locs: How to Add Human Hair Curls, Choose Length, and Create Layers

Waterfall Locs combine the structure of soft or wrapped locs with loose human hair curls that fall from different points along the loc shaft. Instead of placing every curl only at the ends, the stylist adds selected pieces near the upper section, through the middle, and around the lower lengths to create a layered waterfall effect.

The loose curls are what give the style softness and movement, but they also determine much of its weight, maintenance, and final shape. Water Wave creates relaxed, flowing movement, while Deep Wave creates stronger definition and more visible volume. Choosing the wrong length or adding too many curl pieces can make the style feel heavy, hide the loc structure, or create unnecessary tangling.

A balanced installation should allow the locs to remain visible while the human hair curls move between them. The curls should begin at varied heights, fall in different lengths, and become lighter toward the nape and lower back.

This guide explains how to choose Water Wave or Deep Wave human hair, coordinate curl length with loc length, create natural layers, control the amount of loose hair, install the style with less tension, and maintain the curls without excessive frizz or matting.

Quick Answer

Choose Water Wave for soft, flowing curls and a relaxed waterfall effect.
Choose Deep Wave for stronger curl definition, more contrast, and a fuller finish.
Choose Loose Deep Wave when you want more definition than Water Wave but less density than Deep Wave.
Use curls close to the loc length for a long, blended waterfall effect.
Use curls two to six inches shorter than the locs for more obvious layers and separation.
Place shorter curls around the face and crown rather than cutting every piece to one length.
Add loose curls at different heights so they do not form one horizontal line.
Use fewer curl pieces at the nape to reduce friction, tangling, and weight.
Start with a light curl density and add more only after checking the full silhouette.
Keep hot water and strong adhesives away from human hair curls unless the exact product and installation method permit them.

What Are Waterfall Locs?

Waterfall Locs are a bohemian loc style that combines a loc base with loose curls emerging from several points along the length. The loose hair creates a cascading effect similar to water moving through the locs.

The style generally contains four components:

A natural-hair braid or twist foundation
A soft loc, faux loc, or hand-wrapped loc structure
Wrapping hair used to conceal and secure the natural-hair section
Loose human hair curls added as waterfall pieces

The curls may emerge close to the root, through the middle of the loc, near the ends, or at several different points. This placement is what separates a layered Waterfall Loc installation from a style where curls appear only at the bottom.

Style Feature	Waterfall Locs	Traditional Goddess Locs	Regular Soft Locs
Loose Curl Placement	Multiple heights along the loc shaft	Often concentrated near the ends with selected loose pieces	Usually little or no loose human hair
Finished Shape	Layered, flowing, and dimensional	Loc structure with romantic curly accents	Uniform loc silhouette
Human Hair Need	Moderate, depending on curl density	Light to moderate	Optional
Main Maintenance Area	Loose curls and nape	Curly ends	Loc surface and roots
Main Installation Risk	Too many loose curls hiding the locs	Curly ends tangling together	Excessive loc or root weight

Why Use Human Hair for the Loose Curls?

Human hair gives the exposed pieces softer movement and a more natural response to moisture, mousse, rods, and gentle reshaping. Because the loose sections are not enclosed inside the loc, their texture and condition remain highly visible.

Bulk human hair for braiding is especially useful because it has no sewn weft. A stylist can divide the hair into narrow pieces, place each curl at a different height, and customize the amount used on each loc.

Water Wave vs. Deep Wave for Waterfall Locs

Water Wave and Deep Wave can both create the style, but they produce different levels of definition and volume.

Feature	Water Wave	Loose Deep Wave	Deep Wave
Curl Shape	Soft, irregular waves and curls	Elongated, organized curls	Deeper and more compact S-shaped curls
Movement	Highest flowing movement	Balanced movement and definition	More controlled and springy
Visual Volume	Moderate	Moderate to full	Full
Relative Curl Contraction	Moderate	Moderate	Moderate to high
Best Waterfall Effect	Soft, airy, vacation-inspired style	Defined layers with visible length	Bold, highly textured waterfall curls
Maintenance	Moderate	Moderate	Moderate to high
Overfilling Risk	Loose pieces joining into a wide mass	Layers becoming too uniform	Loc structure disappearing beneath dense curls

Choose Water Wave for Soft Movement

Water Wave bulk human hair for braiding creates flexible curls that move easily between the locs. It works well for longer Waterfall Locs, soft face framing, light-density installations, and styles where the loc structure should remain visible.

Water Wave is especially suitable when you want:

A relaxed boho finish
Loose curls that do not appear overly uniform
Soft movement around the face
Long layers that blend into the loc length
A lighter-looking curl arrangement

Choose Deep Wave for Strong Definition

Deep Wave bulk human hair for braiding creates more visible curl groups. The stronger pattern can make individual waterfall pieces stand out clearly, even when fewer pieces are installed.

Deep Wave is useful when you want:

Defined curls that remain visible beside thick locs
A fuller or more glamorous finish
Strong light-and-shadow contrast
A short or medium-length layered style
Fewer loose pieces with greater visual impact

Choose Loose Deep Wave as the Middle Option

Loose Deep Wave bulk human hair for braiding provides more organized definition than Water Wave while retaining more visible length and movement than compact Deep Wave.

It is a useful choice when

the style needs clearly defined layers without the highest possible curl density.

How to Choose the Curl Length

Human curly hair is generally measured while stretched. Its visible drop will be shorter once the curl is released, especially with Deep Wave and other defined textures.

The curl length should be selected in relation to:

The finished loc length
The curl pattern
The height where each piece will be added
The amount of layering desired
Whether the curls should blend into or stand apart from the locs

Loc Length	Curl-Length Direction	Finished Effect
Shoulder-Length Locs	12–16 inch curls	Short layered bob or shoulder-length waterfall shape
Mid-Back Locs	16–20 inch curls	Balanced layers with visible separation between locs and curls
Waist-Length Locs	18–24 inch curls	Long cascading curls with face-framing and mid-length layers
Extra-Long Locs	22 inches or longer	Extended waterfall effect with greater weight and maintenance
Mixed-Length Style	Combine two or more curl lengths	More natural layering without extensive cutting

These are planning directions rather than universal requirements. The same listed length will sit differently in Water Wave and Deep Wave, and a curl attached near the crown will fall lower than the same curl attached near the ends of a loc.

For a Blended Waterfall Effect

Choose curls close to the loc length. This creates long movement and allows the loose pieces to merge visually with the bottom of the locs.

For More Visible Layers

Choose curls two to six inches shorter than the loc length, or combine several lengths. The shorter pieces create movement around the face and crown while longer curls continue through the back.

For a Bob or Lob

Use shorter curls and add them at varied heights. Keep the nape light so the style does not become wide or triangular.

How to Plan Curl Quantity and Placement

Waterfall Locs do not require loose curls on every loc. Strategic placement usually creates a more natural style and reduces tangling, weight, and maintenance.

Planning note: The ranges below are editorial starting points. Actual needs depend on loc count, curl length, bundle weight, strand thickness, head size, and the desired amount of exposed hair.

Curl Density	Human Hair Starting Point	Placement Direction	Finished Effect
Light Accent	Approximately 50–100g	Selected face frame, crown, and every few locs	Loc-focused style with soft movement
Standard Waterfall	Approximately 100–200g	Balanced upper, middle, and lower placements	Visible cascading curls without hiding the locs
Full Waterfall	Approximately 200–300g	More frequent pieces across the crown and sides	High-volume bohemian finish
Extra-Full Long Style	Assess beyond 300g carefully	Long curls on a high loc count	Maximum volume with greater weight and tangling risk

Because many bulk human hair bundles are packaged by weight, compare grams rather than assuming that every “bundle” contains the same quantity.

Place More Curls Where They Are Visible

Use selected shorter pieces around the face.
Add moderate curls through the crown.
Create varied drop points through the sides.
Use fewer curls underneath the back layers.
Keep the nape at the lowest density.

Do Not Add Every Curl at the Same Height

When all curls emerge one or two inches below the root, the style can form a dense horizontal shelf. A natural waterfall effect needs several starting levels.

Head Area	Suggested Curl Starting Point	Length Direction	Density Direction
Face Frame	Upper section of selected locs	Short to medium	Light and intentional
Crown	Mix upper and mid-shaft placements	Short, medium, and selected long pieces	Moderate
Sides	Several different heights	Medium with a few long pieces	Moderate
Lower Back	Mid-shaft or lower	Medium to long	Low
Nape	Lower section of selected locs	Medium or shorter	Lowest

Step-by-Step Waterfall Loc Installation

Step 1: Choose the Loc and Curl Combination

Select the loc length, width, color, and total loc count. Then choose Water Wave, Loose Deep Wave, or Deep Wave human hair according to the desired movement and volume.

Step 2: Map the Layers

Before installing, decide where the shortest, medium, and longest curls will appear. Mark the face frame, crown, sides, lower back, and nape as separate zones.

Step 3: Prepare the Natural Hair

Clean, condition, detangle, moisturize lightly, and dry the natural hair. Avoid heavy product that can make wrapping hair slip or create buildup at the roots.

Step 4: Create Comfortable Sections

Part the hair according to the desired loc size. Each section should contain enough natural hair to support the loc and loose curl additions without excessive tension.

Step 5: Pre-Braid or Twist the Roots

Braid or twist a short section of natural hair to create a stable base. Do not pull tightly around the hairline, temples, or nape.

Step 6: Attach the Soft Loc

Use a crochet hook to connect the loc to the root section according to the selected loc method. Check that the attachment moves comfortably and does not pull the scalp.

Step 7: Secure the Root With Wrapping Hair

Wrap the base enough to conceal the natural hair and attachment. Avoid creating an excessively thick or rigid root.

Step 8: Add the First Human Hair Curl

Place the curl at the planned height and leave the desired portion hanging free. Hold the attachment area securely while continuing the wrap below it.

Step 9: Continue Wrapping the Loc

Wrap downward without pulling the human hair curl into the loc. The exposed piece should remain separate and able to move.

Step 10: Add a Second Curl Where Needed

For selected crown or side locs, add another curl farther down the shaft. Do not place two or three loose pieces on every loc automatically.

Step 11: Secure the Wrap

Finish with a wrapping or knotting method appropriate for the loc and wrapping hair. Strong adhesive should not be the default near natural hair or exposed human hair.

Step 12: Check the Section Before Continuing

Lower the completed locs and assess the weight, curl distribution, layer heights, and amount of visible loc structure.

Step 13: Shape the Finished Style

Trim only after the full head has been assessed. Preserve tapered human hair ends whenever possible and avoid cutting every curl into one blunt line.

Heat and hot-water caution: Soft locs, wrapping fibers, and human hair curls may have different care requirements. Confirm that the loc and wrapping material are hot-water safe before dipping or steaming, and keep the human hair curls away from unnecessary extreme heat.

How to Create Natural Layers

Good layering should look intentional without making each row identical. The finished style needs short movement near the face, moderate volume through the crown, and longer falls through the sides and back.

Use Three Layer Groups

Short layer: face frame, upper crown, and selected bangs
Medium layer: sides, crown, and middle-back movement
Long layer: selected lower pieces that connect with the loc length

Vary the Attachment Height

A short curl attached close to the root behaves differently from the same curl added halfway down a loc. Combining both curl length and starting height creates more realistic depth.

Keep the Face Frame Conservative

Begin with fewer front curls than you think you need. Bright lighting and close proximity to the face make these pieces appear more prominent.

Use Longer Curls Underneath Selected Layers

A few longer pieces beneath the outer layers create the waterfall effect without requiring the full lower back to be densely filled.

Cut Curl by Curl

Allow each curl to rest in its natural pattern before trimming. Do not stretch a curl straight and cut several pieces at once, because they may spring back to different heights.

How to Keep Waterfall Locs Lightweight and Low Tension

The loc, wrapping hair, and human hair curls all contribute to the total load. Adding lightweight curls does not cancel out an overly heavy loc foundation.

Choose a loc length that matches your comfort level.
Use medium or larger sections rather than extremely small anchor braids.
Keep the first perimeter row lightly loaded.
Use fewer loose curls on long or thick locs.
Reduce curl density at the nape and lower back.
Do not add multiple thick human hair sections to every loc.
Check comfort after each completed row.
Remove selected curl pieces when the style begins to feel heavy.
Avoid heavy beads and accessories on already layered locs.

Signs the Style Is Too Heavy or Tight

Pain or headache during installation
Stinging or burning around individual sections
Visible scalp pulling between parts
Raised bumps around the roots
The locs pulling downward when the head turns
A heavy nape that becomes uncomfortable when sitting or sleeping

Do not wait for a painful style to loosen on its own. Adjust or remove the affected sections promptly.

Washing, Refreshing, and Night Care

Clean the Scalp Without Soaking Every Curl

Divide the locs into several loose sections.
Separate obvious tangles in the human hair curls.
Apply diluted gentle shampoo along the scalp parts.
Massage with fingertips without twisting the loc roots.
Allow rinse water to move downward.
Condition the exposed human hair lightly.
Rinse the curls thoroughly.
Blot instead of rubbing.
Dry the natural-hair roots and loc interiors completely.

Refresh Water Wave Curls

Mist only dry or stretched sections.
Apply a small amount of lightweight mousse.
Scrunch the wave pattern.
Finger-coil individual pieces that have lost definition.

Refresh Deep Wave Curls

Work in smaller curl groups.
Use fingers before introducing a comb.
Finger-coil the curl in its original direction.
Avoid separating every curl to maximum fullness.

Protect the Style at Night

Separate curls that have joined together.
Divide long locs into two to four loose groups.
Keep the curl pieces outside tight elastics.
Use a large satin bonnet that does not compress the layers.
Use a satin pillowcase as backup.
Never cover damp roots or curls for the night.

Pay Special Attention to the Nape

The nape experiences friction from collars, pillows, and head movement. Check it regularly, remove shed fibers, separate joined curls, and use product sparingly.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Using the Same Curl Length Everywhere

Problem: The style looks flat or develops one heavy lower line.

Fix: Combine several lengths or vary the height where curls are attached.

Adding Curls to Every Loc

Problem: The loc structure disappears and the style becomes difficult to detangle.

Fix: Remove selected underneath pieces and keep curls concentrated in visible zones.

Starting Every Curl Near the Root

Problem: The upper section becomes excessively full.

Fix: Mix upper, mid-shaft, and lower placements.

Using Too Much Deep Wave Hair

Problem: Compact curls expand and make the silhouette wider than planned.

Fix: Reduce strand size and curl frequency, especially through the sides and nape.

Making the Face Frame Too Short

Problem: The curls rise higher after drying or springing back.

Fix: Begin longer and trim gradually after the full installation settles.

Using Glue as the Main Security Method

Problem: Removal becomes difficult and the adhesive may contact natural or reusable human hair.

Fix: Prioritize a secure wrapping or knotting technique appropriate for the loc system.

Dipping the Entire Style Without Checking Materials

Problem: Human hair curls or unsupported fibers may become dry, distorted, or tangled.

Fix: Confirm the care instructions for every material and treat the locs and exposed curls separately where necessary.

FAQ: Waterfall Locs

What hair is best for Waterfall Locs?

Bulk human braiding hair in Water Wave, Loose Deep Wave, or Deep Wave works well for the exposed curls. Choose according to the desired softness, definition, volume, and maintenance.

Is Water Wave or Deep Wave better?

Water Wave is better for soft, flowing movement. Deep Wave is better for stronger definition and fuller visual impact.

How long should the human hair curls be?

Choose according to the loc length and layer plan. Curls near the loc length create a long blended effect, while shorter pieces create more visible layers.

Can you mix curl lengths?

Yes. Mixing two or more lengths can create natural layers with less cutting.

Should every loc have a loose curl?

No. Strategic curl placement usually creates a lighter, more natural waterfall effect and reduces tangling.

How much human hair is needed?

A light accent style may begin with about 50–100g, while a standard layered result may use around 100–200g. Full styles may require more, depending on loc count, length, and placement.

Can one 100g bundle be enough?

It may be enough for a light or selectively layered style. A fuller or longer installation may require additional hair.

Where should the curls be placed?

Use selected upper pieces around the face and crown, mixed-height pieces through the sides, and fewer lower placements at the back and nape.

How do you prevent Waterfall Locs from becoming too heavy?

Choose manageable loc and curl lengths, use moderate sections, reduce curl density underneath, and stop adding hair once the layered effect is visible.

Can Waterfall Locs be washed?

Yes. Focus cleansing on the scalp, condition the exposed human hair lightly, rinse thoroughly, and dry the roots and loc interiors completely.

How do you keep the loose curls from tangling?

Separate them regularly, keep the nape lightly installed, use lightweight products, protect the style with satin, and avoid sleeping with damp curls.

Can the human hair be reused?

Some pieces may be reusable when they are released without cutting, kept aligned, washed gently, reshaped, fully dried, and stored without severe matting or damage.

Can Waterfall Locs be installed without glue?

Yes. A secure wrapping and knotting technique can often hold the human hair and loc structure without making adhesive the primary method.

Can the style be dipped in hot water?

Only when the exact loc and wrapping materials permit it. Human hair curls may need to be kept outside the water and refreshed separately.

How do you remove Waterfall Locs?

Work one loc at a time, release the wrapping hair, separate the human hair curl, remove the soft loc, and then undo the natural-hair braid or twist. Do not cut until every material has been clearly identified.

Final Thoughts

Waterfall Locs create their signature movement by placing loose human hair curls at several heights rather than concentrating every curl at the ends.

Choose Water Wave for a soft and flowing effect, Deep Wave for stronger definition, or Loose Deep Wave for a balance of movement and curl structure. The more compact the curl, the fewer pieces may be needed visually.

Select the curl length in relation to both the loc length and the attachment height. Curls close to the loc length create a long cascading finish, while shorter pieces create more obvious face-framing and crown layers.

Plan curl placement before installation. Use selected short pieces around the face, mixed lengths through the crown and sides, longer curls through the visible lower layers, and the least hair at the nape.

Do not add curls to every loc automatically. A lighter installation keeps the loc structure visible, reduces root load, and makes the exposed human hair easier to wash and detangle.

Maintain the style by cleaning the scalp gently, drying every root completely, refreshing only the curls that need help, separating the nape regularly, and using satin protection at night.

With the right curl texture, length combination, layer map, density, and low-tension installation, Waterfall Locs can deliver a soft cascading look without unnecessary bulk or a one-length finish.