Maintaining dreadlocks demands a combination of routine care, the right products, and a touch of patience. The good news is, you can easily manage and keep your dreadlocks looking fresh and healthy at home. This beginner’s guide will take you through the fundamental aspects of dreadlocks maintenance and the essential tools and steps to keep your dreads in peak condition.
Understanding the Basics of Dreadlocks Maintenance
Dreadlocks, like any other hairstyle, require certain maintenance practices to retain their look and health. Understanding the basics of dreadlocks maintenance starts with cleanliness. Unlike popular belief, dreadlocks need to be washed regularly just like non-dreaded hair. Keeping them clean prevents scalp infections and encourages healthy hair growth. When washing, use shampoos specially designed for dreads as they remove build-up effectively without leaving any residue that might lead to dread rot.
Equally important to cleanliness is the act of re-twisting. Re-twisting, done in moderation, helps keep the locks tight and neat. Overdoing it, however, can lead to thinning locks and potentially breakage. Ideally, re-twist your dreads every 4-6 weeks. Besides re-twisting, palm rolling is another useful maintenance practice. It involves rolling the dread between the palms regularly to help maintain its cylindrical shape and tightness.
Essential Tools and Steps to Maintain Dreadlocks at Home
The basic tools for maintaining dreadlocks at home include a residue-free shampoo, a wide-tooth comb, locking gel or wax, and a hairdryer. The shampoo keeps your dreads clean without leaving behind any residue. A wide-toothed comb helps in sectioning the dreads for re-twisting, while the locking gel or wax aids in the re-twisting process. After washing and re-twisting, the hairdryer helps to dry the dreads thoroughly to prevent mildew.
Once you have the tools, begin by washing your dreadlocks and scalp with your residue-free shampoo. After washing, gently squeeze out the excess water, and pat dry with a towel, after this, use a hairdryer to ensure the dreads are completely dried off. To re-twist the dreadlocks, apply a moderate amount of locking gel or wax to the new growth at the root of each dread, then, using your fingers or the comb, twist the new growth clockwise. Repeat this process for all your dreads. Remember not to over tighten as it can lead to breakage. Regularly repeat this process every 3-4 weeks or as needed, and in between, keep your scalp moisturized with natural oils like jojoba or coconut oil.
Maintaining dreadlocks at home doesn’t have to be daunting. By understanding the basics and having the essential tools on hand, you can keep your dreadlocks healthy, neat, and stylish. Remember, patience is crucial in the process as dreadlocks take time to mature and lock properly. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your dreadlocks remain in top shape. Happy locking!
