Want to embark on the dreadlock adventure? Whether it's to express your personality, or simply out of love for this hairstyle, getting dreadlocks is a BIG DECISION.
Before taking the plunge, there are a few things you should know to make sure you get off to a good start. To help you with that, we've prepared a list of 10 essential points to know for a smooth beginning.
1. Why do you want dreadlocks?
Before you begin, it's essential to understand your motivations. Why do you want to lock your hair? Is it for aesthetic, spiritual, cultural reasons, or simply for practicality?
Dreadlocks are much more than just a hairstyle. They often symbolize a lifestyle, an identity, or a connection to deep cultural roots. Unlike traditional hairstyles, they require a real commitment, as their upkeep demands regularity and patience. They evolve over time and don't unravel as easily as a braid or a blow-dry.
It's important that your decision is based on your personal desires and not on a passing trend or pressure from those around you. Some people around you might not understand this choice or might have prejudices about dreadlocks, but remember that what matters is your well-being and comfort with your own image.
2. Choose the departure that suits you best
Before starting your hair journey, it's essential to choose the right starting method that suits your expectations and hair type. Dreadlocks aren't a standardized hairstyle: they evolve differently depending on the technique used, your hair texture, and the result you're looking for.
There are several methods to start your dreadlocks, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Want to discover the different ways to start dreadlocks? ➡️ What is the best technique for starting dreadlocks?
3. Patience is a virtue
Dreadlocks don't form overnight. Regardless of the method chosen, they require time to develop and reach maturity. This process can take several months, or even years, and each stage is unique.
Over time, your dreadlocks will change in appearance: they may swell, shrink, become thicker, or form irregularly before stabilizing. It's essential to accept these natural transformations without trying to control them at all costs.
Frustration can sometimes set in, especially if your locs don't immediately take on the desired look. But the key to beautiful locs is patience and consistency. By maintaining a suitable routine with regular hydration and gentle care, you'll gradually see the results of your dedication.
Remember that everyone's journey with their dreadlocks is unique. There's no set timeframe or one-size-fits-all result. Trust the process, celebrate each step, and enjoy this beautiful hair adventure!
4. Your hair texture matters
Dreadlocks can form on all hair textures, but their appearance and maturation time vary depending on your hair type. The curlier your hair, the more naturally it tangles, which speeds up the locking process. Conversely, straighter hair will take longer to lock in place and will require more maintenance to prevent unraveling.
Knowing your texture allows you to choose a suitable starting method: some techniques, such as twists or braids, are better suited to kinky and curly hair, while others, such as crochet, are effective on all hair types.
The maintenance routine will also need to be adjusted according to the speed at which your roots loosen or become tangled.
5. Calls in an experienced locksmith
When you decide to start your dreadlocks, consulting a professional can truly make all the difference. An experienced dreadlock stylist has the expertise to choose the starting method best suited to your hair texture and goals. With their guidance, you can begin your hair care routine on the right foot and avoid common mistakes that could hinder the formation of your dreadlocks.
A professional can also guide you on how to care for your dreadlocks, explaining how to avoid product buildup, what types of treatments to use to maintain hydration, and how to manage touch-ups over time. This can help you save time and avoid frustration during the initial stages of training.
If you are looking for a skilled lock technician, check out our guide “How to choose the right lock technician to maintain your locks” and explore our list of recommended lock technicians, validated by the Locksnation community.
6. Adopt a simple but effective hair care routine
Dreadlocks require regular care to stay healthy and develop properly. A simple yet well-structured hair routine is essential to keep your locks in top condition. Here are the key elements to incorporate into your routine:
✔️ Shampoo: Cleansing is crucial to prevent residue buildup and maintain healthy locs. Use a clarifying shampoo about once a month to remove impurities and product residue. Between these deeper cleans, opt for a gentle shampoo that respects your hair's natural moisture.
✔️ Hydration: Dreadlocks need hydration to stay supple and prevent breakage. Use a hydrating spray 1 to 2 times a week as needed.
✔️ Nutrition : Nourish your locks regularly with a light oil or serum to provide them with all the nutrients they need to prevent breakage and dryness.
✔️ Maintenance: Depending on the style of locs you choose, it's important to schedule regular touch-ups every 1 to 3 months to maintain a neat and tidy shape. These help secure the roots and ensure your locs grow evenly. The frequency depends on the method used and your personal style.
By following this simple yet effective routine , you'll ensure the health and beautiful growth of your locs. Hydration, cleansing, and regular maintenance are the keys to strong, vibrant, and healthy locs.
7. Pay attention to the products you use.
Choosing the right products for your dreadlocks is crucial for their health and growth. Some products can be beneficial, while others, if unsuitable, can lead to problems like residue buildup, dryness, or breakage. Here are some tips for choosing the right products and avoiding those that can damage your dreadlocks.
Avoid heavy and occlusive products
Certain ingredients, like silicones or waxes , can build up in your locs over time. These products often coat the hair and create a layer that prevents natural moisture from penetrating, making your locs stiffer and harder to clean. The buildup of these residues can also make your locs look dull and heavy, and cause large white flakes.
Our recommendations on My Pretty Locks
Need some ideas? To help you choose the products best suited to your routine, feel free to browse our selection on My Pretty Locks . We've carefully chosen natural and effective products to care for your locks, while preserving their texture and growth.
By taking care to choose the right products, you avoid mistakes that can compromise the appearance and health of your locks, and you allow them to develop optimally.
8. Locks are not irreversible.
If you're hesitant to embark on the dreadlock journey, it's important to know that they're not irreversible. While dreadlocks require time and commitment to grow, it's entirely possible to undo them if you choose, at some point, to return to a different hairstyle. However, keep in mind that this process requires patience and dedication.
Undoing dreadlocks
Dreadlocks can be undone, but this involves removing them strand by strand. Depending on the size and method used, this can be time-consuming and requires care to avoid damaging your hair. It's also possible that some residue or knots will remain, especially if the dreadlocks have been worn for several years. It's a long and sometimes tedious process, but it can allow you to achieve smoother hair or change your style if you wish.
Test with twists or vanilla curls
If you're not yet sure whether dreadlocks are right for you, a good alternative is to start with twists or cornrows . These techniques, which involve twisting hair in sections, allow you to test the look and feel of sectioned hair without committing to the lengthy process of forming dreadlocks. It's an excellent way to see if you like the style and if you're ready to commit to the dreadlock process.
Ultimately, even though dreadlocks require an investment of time and energy, it's possible to reverse them if you decide to change your style. If you're hesitant, start with a less permanent method and try it out to see if that hairstyle really suits you.
9. Your scalp needs to be pampered.
A healthy scalp is essential for your dreadlocks to form correctly and develop optimally. A neglected scalp can lead to problems such as itching, irritation, dryness, or even hair loss. Taking care of your scalp is therefore a fundamental step for healthy dreadlocks.
Massage your scalp
Scalp massage is an excellent way to stimulate blood circulation. Good circulation nourishes hair follicles and promotes hair growth. Using a light oil, such as jojoba or castor oil, can make this massage even more beneficial by deeply nourishing your scalp. Gently massage with your fingertips in circular motions for 5 to 10 minutes, ideally 1 to 2 times a week. This not only improves the health of your scalp but also helps reduce accumulated tension.
Hydrate and prevent irritation
The scalp, just like the hair, can become dry, especially with the use of hair products or due to environmental factors. To prevent dryness and itching, regularly apply a moisturizing spray and nourish your locks with a light oil . These products will help maintain the necessary moisture balance to prevent irritation.
It is also advisable to avoid overly aggressive or chemical-based hair products that can irritate the scalp and lead to long-term problems.
Use appropriate accessories
To prevent the buildup of sebum or dust on your scalp, you can also opt for a silk or satin bonnet at night. These fabrics smooth the hair, preventing friction that can cause irritation and breakage. A silk bonnet also helps maintain natural hydration by reducing moisture absorption by more absorbent fabrics like cotton.
10. Trust the process
Creating and maintaining dreadlocks is a true journey, both in terms of your hair and your personal life. At first, it can be tempting to rush the process or get discouraged when things aren't as perfect as you envisioned. However, it's important to trust the process and appreciate each phase, even those that seem less aesthetically pleasing.
Dreadlocks don't form overnight, and it's normal for them to go through different phases before reaching their full maturity. At first, your dreadlocks might be smaller, curlier, or even have an irregular appearance. Over time, they'll solidify, take on their final shape, and become smoother and more defined. It's a natural process, and each step is part of your hair's story.
It's important to accept and appreciate these different phases. Some stages may seem less aesthetically pleasing, especially when your locs are growing, but they are an integral part of their development. This growth phase is unique to each person and reflects the journey of your hair.
Conclusion
With these 10 tips, you are now ready to start off on the right foot.
And if you're still not convinced, discover PrettyLocks' journey which took 8 years to begin her journey away from dreadlocks.
Need inspiration or a helping hand? Join the Pretty Locks community on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube for tips, advice, and support. We're here to guide you every step of the way! 💛