10 Tips To Having Perfect Dreadlocks
10 Tips To Having Perfect Dreadlocks. This is one hairstyle that never gets out of season. Sadly though, many have left their dreads unkempt and not looking so great. Once you have dreadlocks in your hair, it’s important to take care of them to ensure that they continue growing. Follow the tips below for great locks.
1. Engage A Stylist
Find a hair stylist that is experienced with dreadlocks and other natural hairstyles, and don’t be afraid to ask them questions about your hair. If you are looking to get dreadlocks or maintain the ones you have, make an appointment with a stylist and explain what you want to do with your hair.
2. Wash Every 2- 4 Days
It’s important to keep your dreads clean and to remove buildup from your locks. Aim to wash your hair at least 1 time per week, but not every day. It’s best to wait at least 2 days between each wash to allow your scalp to produce natural oils.
3. Dry Them Thoroughly
Most often, dreads that smell musky are a result of them simply not being dried long enough. If you don’t have time to leave them to air dry, a great way to speed the drying process is to use a blow dryer on LOW heat. Don’t tie up your hair or bunch them together before it is completely dry. Also, never add wax to your wet hair.
4. Retwist Your Locks When Loose
Depending on your hair, your dreadlocks might naturally untwist as they grow. If you know how to tighten dreadlocks, you can do it yourself by rolling or wrapping them in whichever method you prefer. However, if you’re new to dreadlocks, visit your locktician for twisting and tightening to maintain your locks.
5. Stop Dread Merging
Touch your dreadlocks about once a week, particularly at the back and check they’re not joining at the base. If they are, then pull them apart. If you do this from the start, regularly, then you will never ever get dreads joining together.
6.Keep Them Moisturized
Dreadlocks can sometimes look frizzy due to a lack of moisture or frequent re-twisting. When your hair is dry, spray on a light moisturizer and work it into your dreads with your fingers before styling your hair.
7. Apply Wax
Apply a small amount of wax to your dry locks if you see them coming apart or becoming loose. Starting from the root downwards, only use enough to bind the hair together. Don’t think you have to coat your hair, there’s no need. Use your hands and start palm rolling.
8. Avoid Bald Patches
A receding hairline affects many of us, When pulled too tightly, dreads move the hairline back over time. Ask your stylist to not pull your hair too tight. Another factor to consider is alternating your style at least once every second week to minimize the hair being stretched in the same direction for prolonged periods.
9. Protect Your Hair
Wear a beenie, or a big dread band to protect them from harsh conditions during the day. A good cheap trick is go to any department store and buy a pair of women’s black leggings in about a size 14 and cut the legs up into rings of different sizes. These work as great headbands and actually look pretty good.
10. Sleep With A Silk Scarf On Your Head
While you’re sleeping, your pillowcase can pull or tug on your dreadlocks, causing the hair to break. Pull your hair into a ponytail or bun, and fasten a silk scarf around your dreadlocks. The silk will slide smoothly across your pillowcase and won’t pull on your hair
