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, guaranteeing they stand tall and defy the legal guidelines of gravity. Dive into the world of dreadology, the place historical strategies meet fashionable improvements, promising a mane that instructions consideration and sparks intrigue.
The trail to dreadlocks will not be with out its challenges, however concern 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 method that guarantees rock-solid dreads. Alongside the way in which, we’ll dispel widespread 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 traditional dreadhead look or want a extra intricate fashion, we’ll empower you with the data and strategies to realize 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 filth, oil, or product buildup which will impede the formation of dreadlocks. This pre-locking wash is essential for guaranteeing that your dreads lock correctly and keep 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 tougher 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 significant 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:
Totally rinse out the deep conditioner and gently towel-dry your hair. Keep away from rubbing or wringing your hair, as this may harm 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 on the specified thickness of your dreadlocks. For thicker dreadlocks, use bigger sections. For thinner dreadlocks, use smaller sections.
| Part Measurement | Dreadlock Thickness |
|---|---|
| Giant (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 protecting it wholesome and stopping breakage. Use a pure oil, equivalent 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 harm.
Listed below are some suggestions for moisturizing your dreadlocks:
- Apply moisturizer to your scalp and locks frequently, 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 take a seat in your hair for not less than half-hour earlier than rinsing it out.
Backcombing or Teasing
Backcombing, also referred to as teasing, is a hair-styling method generally used to create dreadlocks. It entails utilizing a comb or decide to brush the hair backwards in opposition to 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 could harm the hair and make it vulnerable to breakage.
As soon as the hair is completely backcombed, it is necessary to keep up the tangles and forestall the hair from unraveling. This may be achieved by numerous strategies, together with:
Palm Rolling
Roll the dreadlock between your palms, making use of stress to create friction and entangle the hair.
Crocheting
Use a specialised crochet hook to hook the free 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 must be concerning the dimension 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 course for about 1 minute.
Step 3: Lock the Roll
After you have rolled the part of hair, maintain it in your hand for a couple of seconds to permit it to set. You may as well 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 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, you will need to palm roll them frequently to keep up their form and definition. Palm rolling must be achieved each 2-4 weeks, or extra typically if crucial.
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 flippantly to create a knot.
- Use the crochet hook to hook the knot and pull it by the hair shaft.
- Tighten the knot by gently pulling on each ends of the hair part.
- **Superior Method: Interlocking Dreads**
- As a substitute of pulling the knot by 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 the loop to create an interlocking knot.
- Repeat this course of till the 2 dreads are securely interlocked.
- This method 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 cut 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 affords a number of benefits:
- It gives a safer maintain than different strategies.
- It helps to maintain dreads neat and tidy.
- It might probably assist to stop 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 colour 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.
- Wrap the thread across the dread a number of instances, securing it with a knot.
- Repeat steps 4 and 5 till your entire dread is locked. To lock the roots, divide them into small sections. Maintain the sections in place along 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 utterly 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 software. This method creates a extra everlasting maintain than palm rolling or twisting, and it may be used to restore free or damaged dreads.
To interlock dreadlocks, begin by separating two dreadlocks which might 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. Tighten the loop to safe the dreadlocks collectively.
Repeat this course of till all the dreadlocks are interlocked. Be sure you 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 may trigger breakage.
Interlocking generally is a time-consuming course of, however it’s a very efficient approach to lock dreadlocks. This method can be utilized to create a wide range of totally 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 software.
- Begin by separating two dreadlocks which might 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.
- Tighten the loop to safe the dreadlocks collectively.
- Repeat this course of till all the 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 method 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 turn out to be too tangled and troublesome 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 shaped, 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 method can improve the locking course of by smoothing out any free 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 stress.
- Repeat for 5-10 minutes per dreadlock.
- Carry out palm rolling frequently (each few days) till the dreadlocks start to mature.
Types and Upkeep
Dreadlocks, also referred to as locs, are a flexible and distinctive coiffure that may be styled in numerous methods. From traditional freeform to intricate pattern-based, there is a fashion to swimsuit each persona and choice.
Upkeep
To take care of 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 may strip away pure oils.
Drying
After washing, air-dry your locs as a lot as doable to attenuate breakage. You should utilize a towel to softly pat them dry, however keep away from rubbing vigorously.
Retwisting
Common retwisting helps keep the locs’ form and prevents frizz. Retwist each 4-6 weeks, relying on the expansion fee 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 progress.
Scalp Care
The scalp beneath your locs wants consideration too. Therapeutic massage it gently along with your fingertips to stimulate blood circulate and take away any buildup.
Safety
When sleeping or participating in strenuous actions, cowl your locs with a bonnet or scarf to stop friction and harm.
Trimming
As your locs develop, break up ends might seem. Trim them often to keep up a wholesome look and forestall breakage.
Coloring
If desired, you’ll be able to colour your locs. Use a dye particularly designed for dreadlocks and comply with the directions rigorously.
Equipment
Decorate your locs with beads, clips, or scarves to personalize your fashion and add a contact of aptitude.
Persistence and Consistency
Embrace the Timeframe
Permit ample time for the dreading course of, usually spanning a number of months to years. Keep away from dashing the journey, as endurance 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 frequently, particularly in the course of the preliminary phases of formation.
Keep away from Chemical Remedies
Chorus from utilizing hair gels, sprays, or different chemical therapies 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 may harm locs.
Persistence and Consistency in Motion
Months 1-3: Basis Constructing
Start interlocking or palm rolling frequently (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 turn out to be extra outlined.
Months 7-12 and Past: Upkeep and Evolution
Common upkeep stays essential. Dreadlocks proceed to mature and should 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 a wide range of strategies, every with its personal benefits and drawbacks.
Probably the most widespread strategies of locking dreadlocks is the crochet hook method. This entails utilizing a small crochet hook to drag the free hair into the bottom of the dreadlock, creating a good, compact look. The crochet hook method might be time-consuming and requires some follow to get good outcomes.
One other technique of locking dreadlocks is the backcombing method. This entails utilizing a comb to backcomb the hair in opposition to itself, making a tangled and matted look. The backcombing method might be sooner than the crochet hook method, 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 could additionally take the longest to see outcomes.
After you have chosen a technique of locking dreadlocks, you will have to be ready for a interval of adjustment. Your hair will possible turn out to be dry and brittle, and you might expertise some itching and scalp irritation. These signs are regular and can often subside inside a couple of weeks.
After your dreadlocks have locked, you will have to keep up them frequently to maintain them trying wholesome. This may contain washing your hair with a residue-free shampoo and conditioning it with a leave-in conditioner. Additionally, you will have to separate your dreadlocks every so often to stop them from fusing collectively.
Individuals 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 tactic you employ and the kind of hair you have got. Basically, the crochet hook method takes the longest, whereas the neglect technique takes the least period of time.
How Do You Forestall Dreads From Unlocking?
There are some things you are able to do to stop your dreadlocks from unlocking. First, be certain that to scrub your hair with a residue-free shampoo and situation it with a leave-in conditioner. Second, separate your dreadlocks every so often to stop them from fusing collectively. Lastly, keep away from utilizing merchandise that include alcohol or sulfates, as these substances 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 substances can break down the dreadlock formation.
