Avoid using conditioner, which can moisturize your hair and make it slippery.
Each section will eventually become its own dread, so make them as thick or thin as you want depending on your preferences.
Use this method on all of your sections to start your dreadlocks. Avoid rushing as you backcomb, as brushing too quickly make loose or uneven dreads. If you don’t have a dread comb, you can use a wire brush instead.
Use a petroleum-free hair wax to avoid product buildup.
Dread perming is more expensive, as the initial treatment costs between $200-400 USD and can require professional upkeep.
Don’t over-wax your hair to prevent buildup or weighing down your dreads. Dread wax is advocated by some hairstylists and rejected by others because it can prevent coarse hair from locking up. If you have thick hair, apply the wax sparingly or use a lighter hair gel instead. Murray’s beeswax is a common product used.
Avoid retightening too often or yanking on your dreads, as too much can break your hairs at the scalp. [6] X Research source
When you’re ready to remove your dreads, you can cut them yourself or hire a hairstylist to professionally remove them. Dreads need to be cut off since you cannot bring them back down. [8] X Research source
A silk cap is ideal for keeping your dreads moisturized and protect your scalp from friction. [10] X Research source Use a silk pillowcase if a scarf keeps coming off in the middle of the night.
Once a week is the minimum, but once every 2-3 days is ideal. [12] X Research source When you first start your dreads, washing them may cause them to unravel. Be prepared to retwist them after each wash for the first couple weeks.
Residue-free shampoo is best because it leaves behind less product buildup.
Drying out your dreads without squeezing out the water can cause them to mold or mildew, especially if you let them dry overnight. Air drying is the safest way to dry dreads. Blow drying or vigorously towel drying dreads can fray the edges. You can also gently use a microfiber towel.
You can buy leave-in conditioners specifically for dreadlocks online or at some hair salons. You can also use hair creams or oils to protect your hair and support its growth.
