Starting your hair journey with dreadlocks is a personal and symbolic decision. Whether for aesthetic, identity-related, or practical reasons, embarking on this adventure requires some preparation to lay the groundwork. Contrary to popular belief, dreadlocks are not "maintenance-free." They require appropriate care, consistency, and above all, a lot of patience. Here's a complete guide to the essentials for starting your dreadlocks with confidence and watching them grow and thrive.
1. Understanding the startup phase: why it's crucial
Before even discussing products, it's essential to understand that the first few months will determine the future appearance of your locs. This "starter locks" phase is delicate: the hair isn't yet fully formed, and it reacts to friction, humidity, and handling. The strands may loosen, swell, or fray. This is normal! The goal during this period is to allow the hair to express itself while guiding its transformation toward a more uniform shape.
This is where the right tools and products make all the difference.
2. Shampoo: the foundation of any dreadlock routine
The washing stage is crucial for healthy dreadlocks. Unlike non-dreadlocked hair, dreadlocks retain residue more easily. Therefore, it's essential to choose a good , gentle, moisturizing shampoo without weighing hair down. The goal is to remove excess sebum, dust, and impurities without compromising the structure of the developing dreadlocks.
Our recommendations:
▶️ In Haircare's Wash'n Care : gentle yet effective, it cleanses without drying. 
▶️ As I Am rosemary moisturizing shampoo : particularly useful once a month for a deep clean.
Quick tip: massage the scalp well with your fingertips, rinse thoroughly. 
3. Drying: microfiber towel and patience
Drying is an essential step in your locs routine, especially when you're starting out. Your locs naturally take longer to dry than un-located hair because water seeps into each strand and can stay there for a while. If you don't dry them properly, it can lead to unpleasant odors … or even, in extreme cases, mold inside the locs. And trust me, you want to avoid that at all costs.
How to properly dry your dreadlocks:
-
Dab gently, without ever rubbing.
-
Then let it air dry in a well-ventilated area.
-
If you are in a hurry or in winter, you can use a hairdryer on a low temperature setting , at a good distance, while constantly moving.
-
And most importantly: never sleep with wet dreadlocks . This is a classic mistake to avoid ⚠️
4. Daily hydration: the key to soft and healthy dreadlocks
It's a common misconception that's still heard far too often: "Dreadlocks don't need hydration." False! Even though the hair is enclosed in a compact structure, it remains naturally dry—especially kinky or curly hair. As a result, without hydration, your dreadlocks can become dull, brittle, rough to the touch, and more prone to breakage or split ends.
Regular hydration helps maintain the suppleness, shine, and health of your hair. And there's no need to complicate things: a spray bottle is all you need.
On our website, you'll find our ready-to-use, practical, and effective moisturizing sprays , designed for dreadlocks and made with natural ingredients. They allow you to refresh your hair daily without weighing it down or leaving a greasy residue. They're the perfect ally to have on hand!
Do you prefer to make your own homemade mist? Here's a simple recipe:
-
90% water or rose water
-
10% vegetable glycerin
You mix everything together in a small spray bottle, shake it, and spray it every morning or whenever your locks seem a little dry.
Directions for use: Spray directly onto the lengths of your hair and gently massage with your fingers. A light mist is all you need. You can then add a few drops of oil to seal in moisture if necessary.
Moisturizing will only take 30 seconds a day, but it will make a real difference in the long run. And above all, it's a moment to take care of yourself, to feel your hair, touch it, and connect with your natural crown ✨
5. Vegetable oils: nourish without suffocating
Oils help nourish the scalp and seal in moisture. However, they shouldn't be overused, especially if you're just starting to grow dreadlocks, as too much oil can slow down the process.
Apply them mainly to the scalp and in small quantities to the lengths of your hair.
6. The satin bonnet or scarf: the indispensable nighttime ally
Satin helps reduce friction against the pillow, retains moisture, and prevents your locks from becoming brittle overnight. Without protection, your locks can break very easily.
Style tip: Choose a fitted beanie with a soft elastic, or opt for a satin pillowcase if you don't like sleeping with an accessory on your head.
7. Gentle styling and accessories: less is more
When you're starting out with your dreadlocks, every little bit counts. Your roots are still fragile, and the developing lengths need freedom to structure themselves naturally. That's why styling should remain simple, gentle, and minimalist .
For the first few months, let your locs breathe as much as possible . Forget tight hairstyles, sleek braids, or tight buns. Even if you want to "tame" the shape a little, resist the temptation to manipulate them too often. The best way to have beautiful locs is to let your hair follow its natural rhythm .
You'll see that with minimal effort and gentle movements, you'll achieve a more harmonious, healthier, and above all, lasting result. Sometimes, the best care is less is more.
8. Products to absolutely avoid
Some products should be banned from the start:
-
Thick waxes (beeswax)
-
Rich creams
-
Alcohol-based gels
They can clog the locks, prevent proper formation, and lead to residues that are difficult to remove.
9. A state of mind: patience, trust, and kindness
Starting your dreadlocks is also a mental shift. You have to learn to love the transition, to accept that everyone's hair evolves at its own pace, that frizz is normal, and that perfection is an illusion. Dreadlocks tell a story; they change with us, and that's their greatest beauty.
Keep a hair diary if you wish, take photos month after month, celebrate small victories: first lock that locks, first well-maintained routine, etc.
In summary
Embarking on the world of dreadlocks doesn't require a whole arsenal of products, but rather a good understanding of your hair's needs and a simple yet consistent routine . With the right techniques and essentials, you'll be able to foster a healthy, natural, and authentic growth.
At My Pretty Locks, we offer a tried and tested selection to help you get started: caps, natural oils, sprays, suitable accessories… Feel free to visit our shop or ask your questions in the comments 🖤