The different stages of getting locks

When you embark on the dreadlock journey, it's essential to understand that this process unfolds in several stages. Each phase of dreadlock development has its own characteristics and challenges. Understanding these different stages will help you better manage expectations and feel more confident throughout this hair transformation. Here's an overview of the four main phases of growing dreadlocks: baby dreadlocks , the budding phase , adult dreadlocks , and mature dreadlocks .

1. Baby Locks: The Beginning of the Adventure

The first phase of getting dreadlocks, the baby dreadlocks, represents the beginning of this fascinating hair transformation. This stage begins as soon as the first sections of hair are formed, whether through braiding, crocheting, twisting, or any other method of creating dreadlocks. During these first few months, the hair is far from having reached its final shape. It is still short, fragile, and light, as it hasn't yet had time to solidify or acquire its final texture. At this stage, the dreadlocks are still forming and may appear messy, irregular, and sometimes even a little chaotic.

The hair is just starting to tangle, slowly forming the first knots. This phase is essential for establishing the foundation of the dreadlocks, but it can sometimes be difficult to accept, especially if you expect a rapid transformation.

Baby locks are fragile and require special care, as they can easily come undone if handled excessively. The scalp is still very visible at this stage, and the roots of the locks may appear less full or defined. However, even though they may seem disorganized and incomplete at this point, it is precisely this process that allows the hair to bond and gradually take shape.

2. The Budding Phase

The budding phase typically occurs between 3 and 6 months after the locs begin to form. At this stage, the baby locs have already started to develop, but they are not yet fully stable. The first shapes begin to emerge, but the texture of the locs is still quite irregular, and their length remains short compared to the final result.

Thanks to the maintenance, the roots of the dreadlocks begin to solidify, strengthening their structure. However, even as the hair gains consistency, this phase is characterized by a degree of unpredictability: some dreadlocks develop faster than others, while others may be thinner or less defined. The hair continues to tangle, but the overall appearance remains relatively loose and voluminous.

The swelling phase can sometimes be frustrating, as it can give an impression of chaos, but it's also a crucial period where the locks develop texture and prepare to stabilize. As the knots become denser and the length begins to extend, the setting process gains strength and uniformity.

3. Adult Locks: Stabilization

The adult dreadlock phase typically occurs between 12 and 18 months after the dreadlocks began forming. This is when the changes become more noticeable and your dreadlocks start to stabilize their shape. While this phase doesn't yet represent the dreadlocks' full maturity, it's an important turning point in their development.

The locks become denser and stronger. The roots, which were still relatively flexible and sometimes looser during the swelling phase, gradually harden, creating a more stable and resistant structure. The knots have solidified and are now firmly anchored, allowing the locks to take their final shape.

4. Mature Locks

The mature locs phase represents the culmination of your hair journey. At this stage, your locs are fully formed and have reached their full potential. It's a time when they are not only strong and dense, but also perfectly structured. You can finally observe the true evolution of your hair, which has gone through several phases to arrive at this final result.

The shape of your locks is now stable and consistent, requiring little to no touch-ups. Their texture is softer and more supple to the touch, and although the density is high, they no longer appear as heavy or bulky as before. The locks have become lighter and more fluid, while still retaining their distinctive character.

Conclusion

The four phases of growing dreadlocks are a fascinating journey, progressing from fragile and uneven baby locs to strong and dense mature locs . Each stage has its challenges, but they are all necessary to achieve healthy and beautiful dreadlocks. By understanding these different phases and taking care of your hair throughout the process, you can fully enjoy the benefits of your dreadlocks. Remember that patience and regular maintenance are key to successfully navigating each phase!