Introduction
Dreadlocks are a popular hairstyle amongst many people. They not only allow you to express yourself but also require less maintenance than other hairstyles. However, creating dreads can be a tedious process, but with the right steps, tools, and products, you can have beautiful dreads. This article will provide you with a guide on how to create and maintain dreads, so you can have the beautiful look you desire.
Start with clean hair
One of the first and most important steps to getting dreads is to start with clean hair. Ensure that your hair is clean and free of any products or oils, as this will affect the creation of dreads. Washing your hair will ensure that it’s free of any dirt, oil, or residue that might interfere with creating dreads. Ideally, you should wash your hair two to three times a week if you plan on keeping dreads.
When washing your hair, it’s essential to use a residue-free shampoo. This helps to prevent the build-up of oils and products on your scalp, which could cause an itchy or flaky scalp. You can also use a deep cleansing shampoo once every one or two months to keep your hair clean and healthy.
Use a crochet hook
The use of a crochet hook is one of the most common methods of creating dreads. A crochet hook has a latch that pulls the hair strands through the dreads and tightens them. Some of the steps to follow when using a crochet hook include:
- Divide your hair into sections of about 1 cm thick
- Choose a section and use a crochet hook to latch onto the hair strands
- Twist the hair strands with the hook and pull them through the dread, ensuring it’s tight and secure
- Repeat the above steps for the entire head until you achieve the desired number of dreads
When using a crochet hook, it’s essential to ensure that the hook is sturdy and comfortable, and the latches are tight. You might also want to use beeswax to further tighten and secure your dreads. It would help if you did this after you create each dread.
Twist and rip method
The twist and rip method of creating dreads is another popular method. It involves dividing your hair into sections and then twisting and ripping each section. Some of the steps involved include:
- Divide your hair into sections of about 1cm thick
- Twist each section of hair in the same direction as the dreads, then rip it apart in the opposite direction of the twist
- Roll the ripped portion of hair between your palms to create a dread
- Repeat the process for each section of hair until you have the desired number of dreads
When using the twist and rip method, it’s essential to ensure that the twists are tight and consistent. This helps to achieve uniformity in your dreads. You can also use hair wax or creams to hold and secure your hair in place as you twist and rip.
Use a rubber band
Using a rubber band is another popular method for creating dreads. Essentially, it involves sectioning your hair and tying it with a rubber band. Some of the steps to follow include:
- Divide your hair into sections of about 1cm thick
- Twist each section of hair in the same direction as the dreads, then secure it with a rubber band on the tip
- Wait for your hair to lock into dreads naturally, which could take between three to six months
- Remove the rubber bands once your hair has locked into dreads, and the roots are tight
The use of rubber bands is ideal for people who want to avoid using hair products such as wax and creams. However, it’s essential to ensure that the rubber bands are not too tight to avoid damaging your hair. You might also want to detangle your hair and comb it before starting this process.
Regular maintenance
Creating dreads is one thing, but maintaining them is another ball game altogether. You need to take proper care of your dreads to ensure that they maintain their shape, texture, and neatness. Some tips to follow include:
- Wash your hair regularly using residue-free shampoo, and condition it to ensure that it doesn’t dry out
- Retwist your hair regularly to maintain the shape of your dreads and keep them tight and secure
- Avoid overusing wax, as it can cause build-up on your scalp and in your hair, leading to an itchy or flaky scalp and dread rot
- Avoid sleeping on damp hair, as this can create a damp and musty smell on your hair
- Use a micro-fibre towel to dry your hair quickly and efficiently
Use of products
There are different hair care products that you can use when creating and maintaining dreads. Some of the most common products include:
- Dreadlock wax – used to tighten, secure, and hold dreads in place. It’s essential to choose high-quality wax that has natural ingredients and is not too greasy
- Dreadlock shampoo – used to clean dreads, remove build-up and prevent itching and flaking
- Leave-in conditioner – used to keep hair moisturized and prevent dryness and frizz
- Lock peppa – a natural product used for tightening and rooting your dreads. It also helps to prevent itching and promotes healthy hair growth.
It’s essential to choose high-quality products that work well with your hair type and texture. You might also want to consider products that have natural ingredients and avoid those that contain harsh chemicals such as alcohol and sulfates.
Seek professional help
Creating and maintaining dreads can be a challenging process, especially if you’re doing it for the first time. It’s always advisable to seek help from a professional hairstylist who understands the process and can guide you on the best practices. Some tips to consider when seeking a hairstylist include:
- Look for a hairstylist who specializes in creating and maintaining dreads
- Check their reviews, portfolio, and qualifications to ensure that they are experienced and qualified
- Ask for recommendations from friends and family members who have experience with dreads
- Inquire about their pricing and services to ensure that they fit within your budget and expectations.
Conclusion
Creating and maintaining dreads can be a fun and exciting experience. The guide above provides you with a step-by-step process on how to create and maintain dreads. Whether you choose to use a crochet hook, twist and rip method, or rubber bands, always remember to take proper care of your hair by washing and conditioning it regularly. You might also want to consider using high-quality hair care products formulated for dreads. Remember, seek professional help if you’re unsure about the process or need additional guidance.
