Embark on a fascinating journey into the realm of dreadlocks, the place rebellious strands dance with untamed freedom. Whether or not you are a seasoned dreadhead or a curious novice, we unveil the secrets and techniques to locking in your dreads, making certain they stand tall and defy the legal guidelines of gravity. Dive into the world of dreadology, the place historic methods meet fashionable improvements, promising a mane that instructions consideration and sparks intrigue.
The trail to dreadlocks will not be with out its challenges, however worry not, for we will information you thru the uncharted waters. From the preliminary means of sectioning and twisting to the important upkeep routines, we cowl each step with precision and readability. Be taught the artwork of backcombing, unraveling the mysteries behind palm rolling, and discover the wonders of interlocking, a way that guarantees rock-solid dreads. Alongside the best way, we’ll dispel frequent misconceptions and arm you with sensible tricks to hold your dreadlocks thriving.
Embrace the transformative energy of dreadlocks, a logo of liberation and self-expression. Witness the journey from unruly strands to mesmerizing coils as we delve into the intricacies of dreadlock formation and upkeep. Whether or not you search the basic dreadhead look or need a extra intricate model, we’ll empower you with the information and methods to attain your required aesthetic. So, put together your self to embark on a rare voyage, the place your hair turns into a canvas for creativity and a testomony to your unyielding spirit.
The Pre-Locking Wash
Earlier than you’ll be able to start the locking course of, it’s important to completely cleanse your hair to take away any grime, oil, or product buildup which will impede the formation of dreadlocks. This pre-locking wash is essential for making certain that your dreads lock correctly and preserve their integrity over time.
To attain optimum outcomes, comply with these steps for the pre-locking wash:
1. Clarifying Shampoo:
Begin through the use of a clarifying shampoo to take away any product buildup and extra sebum out of your hair. These shampoos are formulated to deep clear the scalp and hair, leaving it feeling refreshed and freed from residue. Keep away from utilizing shampoos that include silicones, as they’ll coat the hair and make it harder for the dreads to lock.
| Clarifying Shampoos |
|---|
| Teatree Clarifying Shampoo |
| Aveeno Apple Cider Vinegar Mix Shampoo |
| Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two |
2. Deep Conditioning:
After clarifying your hair, apply a deep conditioner to revive moisture and forestall dryness. This step is important for conditioning and detangling your hair, making it extra manageable for the locking course of.
| Deep Conditioning Merchandise |
|---|
| SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Hair Masque |
| Cantu Shea Butter for Pure Hair Deep Therapy Masks |
| Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Masks |
3. Rinse and Dry:
Completely rinse out the deep conditioner and gently towel-dry your hair. Keep away from rubbing or wringing your hair, as this could injury the fragile strands and disrupt the locking course of.
Sectioning and Moisturizing
Sectioning
Dividing your hair into sections earlier than locking helps to maintain your locks organized and prevents tangling. To part your hair, use a comb to create partings in your scalp. The dimensions of the sections will rely upon the specified thickness of your dreadlocks. For thicker dreadlocks, use bigger sections. For thinner dreadlocks, use smaller sections.
| Part Measurement | Dreadlock Thickness |
|---|---|
| Massive (1-2 inches) | Thick |
| Medium (1/2-1 inch) | Medium |
| Small (1/4-1/2 inch) | Skinny |
Moisturizing
Moisturizing your hair earlier than and after locking is crucial for conserving it wholesome and stopping breakage. Use a pure oil, comparable to coconut oil or jojoba oil, to therapeutic massage into your scalp and locks. This may assist to seal in moisture and shield your hair from injury.
Listed below are some suggestions for moisturizing your dreadlocks:
- Apply moisturizer to your scalp and locks commonly, particularly after washing your hair.
- Use a pure oil that’s particularly designed for dreadlocks.
- Therapeutic massage the oil into your scalp and locks utilizing round motions.
- Permit the oil to sit down in your hair for at the very least half-hour earlier than rinsing it out.
Backcombing or Teasing
Backcombing, also called teasing, is a hair-styling approach generally used to create dreadlocks. It entails utilizing a comb or decide to brush the hair backwards towards the grain, creating raised ridges and tangles.
To backcomb successfully, divide the hair into small sections and begin combing from the foundation in the direction of the ends. Concentrate on making a tough and textured floor that can encourage the hair to tangle. Keep away from over-combing, as it may injury the hair and make it liable to breakage.
As soon as the hair is completely backcombed, it is essential to take care of the tangles and forestall the hair from unraveling. This may be achieved by means of varied strategies, together with:
Palm Rolling
Roll the dreadlock between your palms, making use of strain to create friction and entangle the hair.
Crocheting
Use a specialised crochet hook to hook the unfastened hairs and pull them into the dreadlock. This technique is right for creating even and tight locs.
Waxing
Apply a small quantity of beeswax or dread wax to the dreadlock and work it in utilizing your fingers. The wax will assist maintain the hairs collectively and forestall frizz.
Palm Rolling
Palm rolling is one other efficient technique for locking dreads. Whereas it takes a bit extra effort and time than twisting or backcombing, palm rolling can create extra uniform and well-defined dreadlocks.
To palm roll your dreads:
Step 1: Separate the Hair
Separate a small part of hair from the remainder of your hair. The part ought to be concerning the measurement of your thumb.
Step 2: Roll the Part
Take the part of hair in a single hand and place it within the palm of your different hand. Use your fingers to roll the hair in a clockwise path for about 1 minute.
Step 3: Lock the Roll
After getting rolled the part of hair, maintain it in your hand for a couple of seconds to permit it to set. It’s also possible to use a crochet hook or latch hook to lock the roll in place. To make use of a crochet hook or latch hook, insert the hook into the middle of the roll and pull the hair by means of the hook. Repeat this course of till the roll is locked in place.
Step 4: Palm Roll Common Upkeep
After your dreads have been palm rolled, it is very important palm roll them commonly to take care of their form and definition. Palm rolling ought to be achieved each 2-4 weeks, or extra usually if obligatory.
Utilizing a Crochet Hook
Supplies:
- Crochet hook
- Rattail comb
- Hair wax or gel (non-obligatory)
Steps:
- Begin with clear, dry hair that’s sectioned into small, equal-sized sections.
- Take a small part of hair and backcomb it frivolously to create a knot.
- Use the crochet hook to hook the knot and pull it by means of the hair shaft.
- Tighten the knot by gently pulling on each ends of the hair part.
- **Superior Method: Interlocking Dreads**
- As an alternative of pulling the knot by means of the hair shaft, use the crochet hook to create an interlocking loop.
- Insert the hook into the bottom of 1 dread and hook the opposite dread from behind.
- Pull the hooked dread by means of the loop to create an interlocking knot.
- Repeat this course of till the 2 dreads are securely interlocked.
- This system creates a tighter and extra sturdy lock.
- Repeat steps 1-5 for all hair sections till all dreads are locked in.
Ideas:
- Use a fine-tipped crochet hook for tighter locks.
- Apply hair wax or gel to scale back frizz and improve maintain.
- Be affected person and take your time to keep away from damaging your hair.
Locking with Needle and Thread
Utilizing a needle and thread to lock dreads is a extra time-consuming technique, nevertheless it presents a number of benefits:
- It gives a safer maintain than different strategies.
- It helps to maintain dreads neat and tidy.
- It could possibly assist to forestall frizz and tangles.
Supplies You will Want
To lock dreads with a needle and thread, you will have the next supplies:
- A pointy needle
- Sturdy thread in a pure coloration that matches your hair
- A pair of scissors
- A rattail comb
- Beeswax (non-obligatory)
Step-by-Step Directions
To lock dreads with a needle and thread, comply with these steps:
- Begin by separating a small part of hair on the base of the dread.
- Use the rattail comb to backcomb the hair till it turns into matted and tangled.
- Thread the needle with a double strand of thread and knot the ends.
- Insert the needle into the middle of the matted hair and pull the thread by means of.
- Wrap the thread across the dread a number of occasions, securing it with a knot.
- Repeat steps 4 and 5 till the complete dread is locked. To lock the roots, divide them into small sections. Maintain the sections in place together with your fingers and wrap the thread across the roots whereas making use of rigidity. Safe with a knot. Repeat with the opposite sections till the roots are fully wrapped.
- Trim any extra thread.
- Apply beeswax to the threads to assist safe them (non-obligatory).
Interlocking
Interlocking is a technique of locking dreadlocks collectively utilizing a crochet hook or different small, pointed instrument. This system creates a extra everlasting maintain than palm rolling or twisting, and it may be used to restore unfastened or damaged dreads.
To interlock dreadlocks, begin by separating two dreadlocks which can be shut collectively. Use the crochet hook to create a small loop on the base of 1 dreadlock. Then, insert the hook into the loop and pull the opposite dreadlock by means of. Tighten the loop to safe the dreadlocks collectively.
Repeat this course of till the entire dreadlocks are interlocked. Remember to work in small sections, in order that you do not put an excessive amount of rigidity on the dreadlocks. Additionally, watch out to not interlock the dreadlocks too tightly, as this could trigger breakage.
Interlocking generally is a time-consuming course of, however it’s a very efficient technique to lock dreadlocks. This system can be utilized to create quite a lot of completely different dreadlock types, together with locs, coils, and twists.
Listed below are some suggestions for interlocking dreadlocks:
- Use a pointy crochet hook or different small, pointed instrument.
- Begin by separating two dreadlocks which can be shut collectively.
- Create a small loop on the base of 1 dreadlock.
- Insert the hook into the loop and pull the opposite dreadlock by means of.
- Tighten the loop to safe the dreadlocks collectively.
- Repeat this course of till the entire dreadlocks are interlocked.
- Work in small sections, in order that you do not put an excessive amount of rigidity on the dreadlocks.
Twist and Rip Technique
The twist and rip technique is a extra aggressive approach that produces smaller, tighter dreadlocks. It entails twisting sections of hair after which ripping them aside. This technique is greatest suited to shorter hair, as longer hair can develop into too tangled and tough to separate.
Supplies
- Vast-toothed comb
- Dreadlock wax (non-obligatory)
Steps
- Wash and completely dry your hair.
- Part your hair into small, equal components.
- Twist every part tightly and maintain it for a couple of seconds.
- Pull the hair aside on the ends, creating two strands.
- Roll the strands collectively towards the scalp, making a dreadlock.
- Repeat steps 3-5 for every part of hair.
- As soon as all of the dreadlocks are fashioned, rub dreadlock wax into them to assist maintain them collectively.
- Dry your dreadlocks completely utilizing a blow dryer or air dryer.
8. Palm Rolling
This system can improve the locking course of by smoothing out any unfastened hairs and inspiring dreadlock formation.
- Supplies: N/A
- Steps:
- Place your palm over the bottom of a dreadlock.
- Roll the dreadlock between your palm and fingers, making use of mild strain.
- Repeat for 5-10 minutes per dreadlock.
- Carry out palm rolling commonly (each few days) till the dreadlocks start to mature.
Kinds and Upkeep
Dreadlocks, also called locs, are a flexible and distinctive coiffure that may be styled in varied methods. From basic freeform to intricate pattern-based, there is a model to go well with each persona and choice.
Upkeep
To keep up wholesome and vibrant dreadlocks, common care is crucial. Listed below are some key steps to comply with:
Washing
Wash your locs each 1-2 weeks with a gentle shampoo designed for dreadlocks. Keep away from over-washing, as this could strip away pure oils.
Drying
After washing, air-dry your locs as a lot as attainable to reduce breakage. You need to use a towel to softly pat them dry, however keep away from rubbing vigorously.
Retwisting
Common retwisting helps preserve the locs’ form and prevents frizz. Retwist each 4-6 weeks, relying on the expansion charge and desired look.
Oiling
Making use of a light-weight oil to your locs helps hold them moisturized and wholesome. It additionally helps stop breakage and encourages development.
Scalp Care
The scalp beneath your locs wants consideration too. Therapeutic massage it gently together with your fingertips to stimulate blood stream and take away any buildup.
Safety
When sleeping or participating in strenuous actions, cowl your locs with a bonnet or scarf to forestall friction and injury.
Trimming
As your locs develop, break up ends could seem. Trim them often to take care of a wholesome look and forestall breakage.
Coloring
If desired, you’ll be able to coloration your locs. Use a dye particularly designed for dreadlocks and comply with the directions fastidiously.
Equipment
Decorate your locs with beads, clips, or scarves to personalize your model and add a contact of aptitude.
Persistence and Consistency
Embrace the Timeframe
Permit ample time for the dreading course of, sometimes spanning a number of months to years. Keep away from speeding the journey, as persistence fosters optimum dreadlock formation.
Common Interlocking and Palm Rolling
Interlocking dreads with a crochet hook or palm rolling strengthens them and prevents unraveling. Interlock or palm roll commonly, particularly throughout the preliminary phases of formation.
Keep away from Chemical Therapies
Chorus from utilizing hair gels, sprays, or different chemical remedies that intrude with dreadlock formation. These merchandise can go away residue or loosen locks.
Sectioning and Separating
Divide hair into sections and separate particular person dreads to advertise even locking and forestall matting. Use clips or hair ties to maintain sections aside.
Upkeep and Hygiene
Correct upkeep entails washing dreads with a residue-free shampoo and conditioner. Keep away from brushing or combing, as this could injury locs.
Persistence and Consistency in Motion
Months 1-3: Basis Constructing
Start interlocking or palm rolling commonly (each 2-3 weeks). Concentrate on creating a robust basis and separating dreads.
Months 4-6: Steady Development
Interlocking or palm rolling turns into much less frequent (each 4-6 weeks). Dreads begin to mature and develop into extra outlined.
Months 7-12 and Past: Upkeep and Evolution
Common upkeep stays essential. Dreadlocks proceed to mature and will develop character and persona.
| Timeframe | Upkeep |
|---|---|
| Months 1-3 | Frequent interlocking/palm rolling, sectioning |
| Months 4-6 | Much less frequent interlocking/palm rolling, separation |
| Months 7-12+ | Common upkeep, washing |
How To Lock In Dreads
Locking dreadlocks is the method of making a everlasting, matted look to your hair. This may be achieved by means of quite a lot of strategies, every with its personal benefits and downsides.
Some of the frequent strategies of locking dreadlocks is the crochet hook approach. This entails utilizing a small crochet hook to tug the unfastened hair into the bottom of the dreadlock, creating a decent, compact look. The crochet hook approach could be time-consuming and requires some apply to get good outcomes.
One other technique of locking dreadlocks is the backcombing approach. This entails utilizing a comb to backcomb the hair towards itself, making a tangled and matted look. The backcombing approach could be quicker than the crochet hook approach, nevertheless it will also be extra damaging to the hair.
A 3rd technique of locking dreadlocks is the neglect technique. This entails merely leaving your hair alone and permitting it to naturally dreadlock over time. The neglect technique is the least labor-intensive, however it may additionally take the longest to see outcomes.
After getting chosen a technique of locking dreadlocks, you will have to be ready for a interval of adjustment. Your hair will doubtless develop into dry and brittle, and you could expertise some itching and scalp irritation. These signs are regular and can normally subside inside a couple of weeks.
After your dreadlocks have locked, you will have to take care of them commonly to maintain them wanting wholesome. This may contain washing your hair with a residue-free shampoo and conditioning it with a leave-in conditioner. Additionally, you will must separate your dreadlocks once in a while to forestall them from fusing collectively.
Folks Additionally Ask About How To Lock In Dreads
How Lengthy Does It Take To Lock Dreads?
The time it takes to lock dreadlocks varies relying on the strategy you employ and the kind of hair you may have. Usually, the crochet hook approach takes the longest, whereas the neglect technique takes the least period of time.
How Do You Stop Dreads From Unlocking?
There are some things you are able to do to forestall your dreadlocks from unlocking. First, ensure to scrub your hair with a residue-free shampoo and situation it with a leave-in conditioner. Second, separate your dreadlocks once in a while to forestall them from fusing collectively. Lastly, keep away from utilizing merchandise that include alcohol or sulfates, as these elements can break down the dreadlock formation.
How Do You Clear Dreads?
To scrub your dreadlocks, use a residue-free shampoo and work it into the roots of your hair. Rinse your hair completely after which apply a leave-in conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair. Keep away from utilizing merchandise that include alcohol or sulfates, as these elements can break down the dreadlock formation.
