If you want to start your loc journey but want to skip the process, GET EXTENSIONS. I had locs for a few months but the short locs weren't cutting it. I wasn't gonna wait a year to get the length, thickness, and confidence I wanted. So, I ordered 50 loc extensions the day BEFORE thanksgiving WITH EXPEDITED SHIPPING and I literally got it the same day!! The hair didn't smell bad but I washed it to reduce the stiffness, which helped a lot. NO dye washed out. I saw a few ppl on other sites complaining about their loc extensions from other companies so I want to let yall know that you won't have that problem with the fashion dreads. The installation was easy. I've only had them installed for a week but I love them! As long as you get a style with the installation, you don't have to worry about the stiffness. Don't expect these to IMMEDIATELY flow like locs that are grown straight out of your head, because they're not. HOWEVER, this did not change anything for me but I do want to let yall know because some people don't speak about that part of crochet extensions. It is a great investment and I 10/10 recommend it! My only regret is that I wish I bought them sooner. I freaking LOVE my locs!