Dreadlocks, also referred to as locs, are a singular and placing coiffure that has been round for hundreds of years. They’re shaped by twisting or matting the hair, which then kinds into tight coils. Dreadlocks will be worn by individuals of all hair varieties, however they’re mostly related to African and Caribbean cultures.
In case you’re questioning the best way to begin a dread, there are a number of completely different strategies you should use. Nevertheless, it’s necessary to know that dreadlocks are a lifelong dedication. When you begin them, they can’t be brushed out with out damaging the hair.
One methodology of beginning dreads is to make use of the backcombing approach. This entails brushing your hair backwards with a fine-toothed comb, which can create small knots and tangles. You can even use a crochet hook to create tighter dreads. After you have created sufficient knots, it’s essential to begin twisting the hair into dreadlocks. You are able to do this by hand or you should use a dreadlock software.
The Origins of Dreadlocks
Dreadlocks, also referred to as locs or jata, are a particular coiffure characterised by tightly coiled, rope-like strands of hair. Their origins will be traced again to historical cultures worldwide, every with its distinctive beliefs and practices surrounding them.
Historical Egypt
A few of the earliest proof of dreadlocks will be present in historical Egypt, the place they had been worn by each women and men. Depictions in hieroglyphics and sculptures present people with tightly coiled hair that resembles dreadlocks. In Egyptian tradition, dreadlocks had been typically related to holiness and spirituality, and had been worn by clergymen and priestesses. They had been additionally an emblem of energy and power, and had been typically adopted by pharaohs and different rulers.
Notable Figures
Some of the well-known examples of an historical Egyptian with dreadlocks is the mummified priestess Nesyamun, whose hair was discovered to be tightly coiled and preserved in its authentic state. Different notable figures who’re believed to have worn dreadlocks embody the pharaohs Ramses II and Hatshepsut.
| Determine | Description |
|---|---|
| Nesyamun | Mummified priestess with well-preserved dreadlocks |
| Ramses II | Pharaoh believed to have worn dreadlocks |
| Hatshepsut | Feminine pharaoh who could have worn dreadlocks |
Advantages of Dreadlocks
– **The connection of heritage**
Dreadlock has been a life-style since historical occasions. Dreadlocks have been worn by many for 1000’s of years. Egyptians have been recognized to create advanced types, such because the Nubian Knots. Celts wore dreadlocks as an emblem of energy, and the Vikings wore them for cover and id.
– ** Religious development and private empowerment**
The method of rising dreadlocks could be a bodily and non secular journey. Some individuals discover that the method of letting go of management and letting their pure hair do its personal factor will be liberating.
– **Simple to handle**
Dreadlocks are very simple to take care of. As soon as they’re mature, they solely have to be washed and conditioned as soon as per week or so. They are often left to air dry or dried with a blow dryer on a low setting.
Selecting the Proper Hair Kind for Dreads
Dreads are a singular coiffure created by matting or twisting sections of hair collectively. Whereas dreads will be created on any hair sort, sure hair textures are extra appropriate than others.
Hair Kind for Dreads
| Hair Kind | Suitability for Dreads |
|---|---|
| Straight | Much less appropriate; susceptible to frizziness and breakage |
| Wavy | Reasonably appropriate; requires extra upkeep and care |
| Curly | Best suited; naturally tends to dread and requires minimal upkeep |
| Coily | Extremely appropriate; kinds compact and well-defined dreads |
Curly and Coily Hair
Curly and coily hair textures are perfect for dreads as a result of their pure tendency to mat and lock collectively. These hair varieties have a decent curl sample that permits the strands to intertwine and create compact, well-defined dreads. Curly and coily hair additionally requires minimal upkeep in comparison with different hair textures, because the pure oils and moisture assist to maintain the dreads hydrated and stop breakage.
Listed here are some extra advantages of curly and coily hair for dreads:
- Kinds compact and well-defined dreads
- Requires minimal upkeep in comparison with different hair textures
- Pure oils and moisture assist hold dreads hydrated
- Much less susceptible to breakage and frizz
The Locking Course of: Pure vs. Assisted Strategies
As soon as your dreadlocks have begun to type, you will have to “lock” them to take care of their form and stop them from unraveling. There are two predominant strategies of locking dreadlocks: pure and assisted.
Pure Locking
Pure locking is the method of permitting your dreadlocks to lock on their very own with none exterior help. This methodology can take a number of months and even years to finish, however it’s the least damaging to your hair.
Assisted Locking
Assisted locking entails utilizing a software or approach to assist your dreadlocks lock sooner. This methodology will be extra damaging to your hair, nevertheless it will also be more practical in creating tight, uniform dreadlocks.
4. Towel Rubbing
This methodology entails rubbing a towel vigorously over your dreadlocks in a round movement. This creates friction that helps to matt the hair collectively and type dreadlocks. Towel rubbing will be efficient in creating small, tight dreadlocks, nevertheless it will also be damaging to your hair if achieved excessively.
| Execs | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quicker locking | Can injury hair |
| Can create tight, uniform dreadlocks | Time-consuming |
Finally, the choice of whether or not to make use of pure or assisted locking is a private one. Take into account your hair sort, desired outcomes, and finances when making your determination.
Upkeep and Care of Dreads
Sustaining dreadlocks requires a constant routine of correct care and upkeep. Listed here are some key features to think about:
1. Common Washing
Dreadlocks needs to be washed much less regularly than common hair, as over-washing can take away the pure oils that assist to carry them collectively. Use a mild shampoo designed for dreadlocks and keep away from harsh detergents.
2. Partial Drying
After washing your dreadlocks, towel dry them gently to take away extra moisture. Keep away from utilizing a hairdryer, as the warmth can injury them.
3. Palm Rolling
Palm rolling is a vital approach for sustaining the form and tightness of your dreadlocks. Use your palms to softly rub and twist the roots of the dreads to encourage them to lock.
4. Retwisting
Retwisting is a extra superior approach used to tighten and form the dreadlocks. It entails dividing the roots of the dreads into sections and individually twisting them collectively.
5. Further Care Suggestions
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Moisturizing | Apply a dreadlock cream or moisturizer to maintain the dreadlocks hydrated and stop breakage. |
| Overlaying at Night time | Cowl your dreadlocks with a satin or silk scarf at evening to guard them from friction. |
| Keep away from Chemical substances | Keep away from utilizing harsh chemical substances similar to chlorine or bleach in your dreadlocks, as they will injury them. |
Styling and Adorning Dreadlocks
As soon as your dreadlocks have matured, you may start to experiment with completely different styling choices. You possibly can wrap, braid, or twist them into distinctive shapes and designs, or adorn them with beads, ribbons, or different equipment.
Wrapping Dreadlocks
To wrap your dreadlocks, begin by sectioning them off into small strands. Then, take a size of yarn, wire, or material and wrap it across the base of every strand, working your manner up in the direction of the tip. Safe the wrap with a knot or a bobby pin.
Braiding Dreadlocks
To braid your dreadlocks, divide them into three strands. Cross the left strand over the center strand, then cross the fitting strand over the brand new center strand. Proceed braiding till you attain the tip of the dreadlocks, then safe the braid with a hair tie.
Twisting Dreadlocks
To twist your dreadlocks, take two strands and twist them collectively in a clockwise or counter-clockwise path. Proceed twisting till you attain the tip of the dreadlocks, then safe the twist with a bobby pin.
Adorning Dreadlocks
There are countless methods to adorn your dreadlocks with beads, ribbons, and different equipment. You need to use beads to create patterns or designs, or just add a pop of coloration. You can even use ribbons to tie off the ends of your dreadlocks or to create a headscarf.
Beads
Beads are a preferred approach to adorn dreadlocks. They arrive in quite a lot of shapes, sizes, and colours, so you could find beads that match your private fashion. You need to use beads to create patterns or designs, or just add a pop of coloration.
Ribbons
Ribbons are one other well-liked approach to adorn dreadlocks. You need to use ribbons to tie off the ends of your dreadlocks, to create a headscarf, or to wrap round your dreadlocks in an ornamental manner.
Different Equipment
There are numerous different equipment that you should use to adorn your dreadlocks, similar to feathers, shells, and jewellery. Be artistic and experiment with completely different equipment to search out what works greatest for you.
Desk of Beneficial Dreads Adornments:
| Merchandise | Description |
|---|---|
| Beads | Can be utilized to create patterns or designs, or just add a pop of coloration. |
| Ribbons | Can be utilized to tie off the ends of dreadlocks, create a headscarf, or wrap round dreadlocks in an ornamental manner. |
| Feathers | Add a pure and bohemian contact to dreadlocks. |
| Shells | Can be utilized to create a beachy or island-inspired look. |
| Jewellery | Can be utilized so as to add a contact of glamour to dreadlocks. |
Suggestions for Beginning Dreads Safely
Beginning dreadlocks is an thrilling journey, nevertheless it’s important to do it safely and successfully. Listed here are some suggestions that will help you get began on the fitting foot:
1. Select a Technique That Fits You
There are a number of methods to begin dreads, together with the backcombing, twisting, or crochet methodology. Select the one which greatest aligns together with your hair sort and texture.
2. Get Your Hair Prepared
Earlier than you begin, wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to take away any dust or product buildup. Enable your hair to dry fully earlier than dreading.
3. Shield Your Arms
Use gloves to guard your fingers from friction and potential cuts. Backcombing or twisting can put numerous pressure in your fingers.
4. Part Your Hair
Divide your hair into sections to make the dreading course of extra manageable. Begin with small sections, particularly in case you have thick or lengthy hair.
5. Use the Proper Instruments
For the backcombing methodology, use a fine-toothed comb. For the twisting methodology, use a crochet hook or a dreadlock software. Select instruments which might be particularly designed for dreadlocks.
6. Begin on the Roots
When creating dreads, all the time begin on the roots and work your manner down. This can guarantee a safe and long-lasting bond.
7. Be Affected person and Constant
Creating dreadlocks takes time and persistence. Dread them persistently over a number of weeks and even months. Keep away from over-manipulating your hair throughout the course of.
8. Preserve Your Dreads
As soon as your dreads are shaped, it is necessary to take care of them correctly. Wash them usually utilizing a dreadlock shampoo and conditioner. Keep away from utilizing harsh chemical substances or heated styling instruments. Common upkeep will hold your dreads wholesome and searching their greatest.
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Backcombing | Utilizing a fine-toothed comb to create small knots on the roots |
| Twisting | Separating hair into strands and twisting them collectively |
| Crochet | Utilizing a crochet hook to drag hair via the bottom of the dreadlock |
Frequent Challenges and Options for Dreadlocks
Fuzziness
Fuzziness can happen when free hairs poke out from the dreadlocks. To handle this, take into account crocheting or interlocking the dreadlocks to safe the free hairs. You can even palm roll or use beeswax to easy the hair and scale back frizz.
Uneven Size
Uneven size can come up as a result of various development charges or improper sectioning. To resolve this, use a crochet hook to redistribute the size by pulling shorter hairs from the bottom of the dreadlocks to the ends.
Cut up Ends
Cut up ends can weaken the dreadlocks and make them susceptible to breakage. Common trimming is important to take away break up ends and preserve the well being of the locs. You can even use a dreadlock wax or serum to strengthen and defend the ends.
Dandruff
Dandruff can happen when the scalp turns into dry or irritated. To fight this, use a mild shampoo and conditioner particularly designed for dreadlocks. Common oiling with pure oils, similar to jojoba or coconut oil, also can assist soothe the scalp and scale back dandruff.
Itching
Itching could be a widespread drawback with dreadlocks. To alleviate this, use a twig bottle crammed with water and some drops of tea tree oil to mist the scalp. You can even strive massaging the scalp with a gentle fabric or brush.
Mould and Mildew
Mould and mildew can develop in dreadlocks that aren’t correctly dried after washing. To stop this, wash dreadlocks much less regularly and guarantee they’re fully dry after every wash. You can even use a blow dryer on a low warmth setting to dry the locs.
Free Roots
Free roots can happen when the dreadlocks usually are not maintained correctly. To handle this, use a crochet hook to tighten the roots and safe the free hairs. You can even apply a dreadlock gel or wax to assist maintain the roots in place.
Thinning Dreadlocks
Thinning dreadlocks could be a results of breakage or improper upkeep. To stop this, keep away from utilizing harsh chemical substances or warmth styling instruments on dreadlocks. You also needs to get common retwists or interlocking to take care of the thickness of the locs.
Hair Loss
Hair loss can happen with dreadlocks as a result of rigidity or improper care. To attenuate hair loss, use light merchandise and methods when sustaining dreadlocks. Common oiling also can assist nourish the hair and stop breakage.
The Significance of Persistence and Consistency
Persistence
Dreadlocks take time and consistency to type. It could take a number of months to a yr or longer in your hair to begin dreading. Be affected person with the method and do not get discouraged in case you do not see outcomes instantly.
Consistency
It is very important be constant together with your dread care routine. This implies washing your hair usually, separating your dreads, and retwisting them as wanted. Consistency will assist your dreads type sooner and preserve their form.
10 Methods to Promote Dread Formation
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Palm rolling | Use your palms to softly roll your hair between your fingers. This helps to separate and form the dreads. |
| Sponge rubbing | Rub a sponge over your hair in small round motions. This creates friction that helps to create dreads. |
| Backcombing | Use a teasing comb to softly tease your hair upwards. This creates knots that may finally flip into dreads. |
| Interlocking | Use a crochet hook to hook two dreads collectively. This helps to tighten them and stop them from separating. |
| Twist and rip | Twist two sections of hair collectively after which pull them aside. This creates small knots that may finally flip into dreads. |
| Freeform | Let your hair dread naturally with out utilizing any specific methodology. This could take longer than different strategies, however it might probably create distinctive and attention-grabbing dreads. |
| Brotherhood | Ask a pal or member of the family that will help you begin your dreads. They’ll use their fingers or a crochet hook to create the preliminary knots. |
| Thinning hair | In case you have skinny hair, it might be useful to create small sections of hair to dread. This can assist to stop the dreads from turning into too heavy and falling out. |
| Pure merchandise | Use pure merchandise, similar to shea butter or coconut oil, to moisturize your dreads. This can assist to maintain them wholesome and stop them from drying out. |
| Shield your dreads | Put on a hat or scarf to guard your dreads from the weather. This can assist to stop them from turning into frizzy or broken. |
How To Begin A Dread
Beginning dreadlocks could be a enjoyable and rewarding expertise, nevertheless it’s necessary to do it proper. In case you don’t comply with the right steps, your dreads may find yourself trying frizzy and unkempt. Right here’s a step-by-step information on the best way to begin a dread:
1. Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo. This can take away any dust or product buildup that would forestall your dreads from forming correctly.
2. Part your hair into small squares. The scale of the squares will decide the dimensions of your dreads. Smaller squares will create tighter dreads, whereas bigger squares will create looser dreads.
3. Backcomb every part of hair. This can create small knots that can finally type the dreads.
4. Palm roll every part of hair. This can assist to tighten the knots and begin the dreadlock formation course of.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 till all your hair is dreaded.
6. Preserve your dreads by washing them with a residue-free shampoo and conditioner. You also needs to keep away from utilizing any merchandise that include alcohol or sulfates, as these can injury your dreads.
Individuals Additionally Ask About How To Begin A Dread
Can I begin dreadlocks with curly hair?
Sure, you can begin dreadlocks with curly hair. Nevertheless, it might take longer in your dreads to type than in case you have straight hair.
How lengthy does it take for dreadlocks to type?
It could take wherever from 3 months to 2 years for dreadlocks to type absolutely. The timeframe will differ relying on the kind of hair you might have, the strategy you utilize to begin your dreads, and the way nicely you preserve them.
Do dreadlocks odor?
Dreadlocks can odor if they aren’t correctly maintained. It is very important wash your dreads usually with a residue-free shampoo and conditioner. You also needs to keep away from utilizing any merchandise that include alcohol or sulfates, as these can injury your dreads.
