Wavy Soft Locs vs Island Locs: Which Is Right for You?
Comparing Wavy Soft Locs and Island Locs in Nairobi? See pricing from KSh 3,500, install times, and which style suits your look at Fabz Hair and Beyond.
Choosing a new hairstyle is exciting, but when two beautiful styles look equally amazing, making the final decision isn’t always easy.
If you’ve been comparing Wavy Soft Locs and Island Locs, you’re not alone. These are two of the most popular protective hairstyles at Fabz Hair & Beyond because they’re both lightweight, stylish, and easy to maintain. The biggest difference comes down to the look you want, how much time you have for your appointment, and how you like to wear your hair.
This guide will help you understand the difference so you can confidently choose the style that suits your personality and lifestyle.
Key Takeaways
- Wavy Soft Locs start from KSh 3,500; Island Locs start from KSh 5,000
- Wavy Soft Locs take 5–7 hours to install; Island Locs take just 2–4 hours
- Wavy Soft Locs last 6–8 weeks; Island Locs last 6–10 weeks
- Island Loc extensions can often be reused for future installations

What’s the Difference Between Wavy Soft Locs and Island Locs?
While both styles offer beautiful protective styling, they create very different looks.
Wavy Soft Locs have a soft, textured finish with gentle waves that create volume and movement. They’re perfect if you love effortless, bohemian-inspired hairstyles with a relaxed feel.
Island Locs, on the other hand, have a smoother, sleeker finish that closely resembles mature natural locs. They offer a polished appearance and are ideal for anyone who prefers a clean, refined look.
"Neither style is better than the other, the right choice simply depends on the look you're trying to achieve."
Quick Comparison
| Wavy Soft Locs | Island Locs | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | From KSh 3,500 | From KSh 5,000 |
| Installation Time | 5–7 Hours | 2–4 Hours |
| Texture | Soft, Wavy & Voluminous | Smooth & Sleek |
| Wear Duration | 6–8 Weeks | 6–10 Weeks |
| Hair Reusable | No | Yes |
Wavy Soft Locs: Relaxed, Textured & Full of Movement
If you love hairstyles that feel soft, carefree, and full of personality, Wavy Soft Locs are an excellent choice.
Their gentle waves create beautiful volume, making them perfect for clients who enjoy styling their hair in buns, ponytails, or loose everyday looks.
Many of our clients choose Wavy Soft Locs because they:
- Create a fuller hairstyle
- Have a soft, lightweight feel
- Offer a modern bohemian look
- Work beautifully for both casual and professional settings
They’re ideal if you want a hairstyle that feels effortlessly stylish from the day it’s installed.
Island Locs: Sleek, Elegant & Naturally Beautiful
Island Locs offer a completely different aesthetic.
Instead of waves and texture, they feature a smooth finish that closely resembles mature natural locs.
They are installed using an interlocking technique, creating a neat, polished appearance that many clients love for its simplicity and elegance.
One of the biggest advantages of Island Locs is that the extension hair can often be reused for future installations when properly maintained, making them a great long-term investment.

Island Locs are perfect if you:
- Prefer a clean, natural loc appearance
- Want a polished everyday hairstyle
- Need a faster installation
- Like the option of reusing your extensions
Installation Time: Which Style Fits Your Schedule?
If you’re working around a busy schedule, installation time may influence your decision.
Wavy Soft Locs typically take 5–7 hours to complete. This is ideal if you’re planning a dedicated self-care day and want the extra texture and volume that comes with the style.
Island Locs usually take 2–4 hours, making them one of the quickest full loc installations available at Fabz Hair & Beyond. If you’re looking for a quicker salon visit without compromising on style, Island Locs are a great option.
Pricing
Both styles offer excellent value while delivering long-lasting protective styling.
Wavy Soft Locs start from KSh 3,500, while Island Locs start from KSh 5,000. The difference in price reflects the installation technique and the reusable nature of Island Loc extensions.
For personalised pricing, we’ll recommend the best option based on your preferred length, fullness, and styling requirements. If you’d like to see how Wavy Soft Locs compare on cost to other soft loc styles, our 2026 soft locs price guide breaks it all down.
Which Style Lasts Longer?
Both hairstyles are designed to be low maintenance and long-lasting. With proper care, Wavy Soft Locs typically last 6–8 weeks, and Island Locs typically last 6–10 weeks.
Stylist Tip
Which Style Should You Choose?
Choose Wavy Soft Locs if you:
- Love soft, textured hairstyles
- Prefer a fuller, more voluminous look
- Enjoy bohemian-inspired styles
- Don’t mind spending a little longer in the salon
Choose Island Locs if you:
- Want a sleek, natural loc finish
- Prefer a shorter installation time
- Like a polished everyday hairstyle
- Want extension hair that can often be reused
Frequently Asked Questions
Still deciding? The best hairstyle isn’t just about what’s trending, it’s about what suits your hair, your lifestyle, and your personal style. If you’re still unsure whether Wavy Soft Locs or Island Locs are the better choice, our experienced stylists are happy to guide you during your consultation. We’ll help you choose the style that complements your hair type, desired look, and maintenance preferences.
Visit us at any of our convenient locations in Nairobi CBD, Embakasi, or Kitengela, and let us help you achieve a look you’ll love.