How to Care for Your New Dreadlocks

Dreadlocks are a natural way to wear your hair that dates back for centuries. Many people think dreads are dirty and the result of not taking care of your hair. Actually the opposite is true. When properly maintained dreads are clean and neat. There are a few different ways to put your hair in dreads, the best way is to use backcombing and some wax made for creating dreads. Once your new dreads are formed, don’t wash them for about two weeks. This will give your hair a chance to lock up and get used to being in dreads.

Cleaning Your Dreadlocks

Once the two weeks have passed, you can wash your hair and scalp carefully. You can use liquid shampoo or a shampoo bar made for dreadlocks. Regular shampoos contain conditioners that can make your dreads break down and not lock properly, so be sure to only use shampoos made specifically for dreadlocks. Some people find the bar works best, but it is up to you which one you use. When you wash your dreads be sure to scrub your scalp gently to prevent it from becoming itchy. Concentrate on your scalp and don’t manipulate your dreads too much. The shampoo from your scalp will get on your dreads enough to clean them. You can gently squeeze them to get the shampoo rinsed out and make sure they’re clean.

Apply Wax

Let your dreads completely dry before you apply any wax. If you don’t they can start to smell musty because mold can start to grow in them if they’re not dry when you apply wax. Squeeze the moisture out with a towel and then let them air dry. Once they’re dry you’ll want to apply some dread wax to help them stay locked. You don’t need a lot of it, just enough to coat the dreads. Do this after about six weeks of getting your new dreads and every other day after that. When applying wax, use less than you think you need. It’s easier to apply more, but not so easy to get excess wax out.

Keep Your Dreadlocks Twisted

Another important step to taking care of your dreads is to hand roll them. Take a lock and roll it between your palms. This helps them stay locked and helps to twist new growth into the lock. Roll your dreads as you sit and watch television, relax, and anytime you think of it. You also need to take care of your scalp. Apply scalp conditioner to keep your scalp healthy and prevent dandruff. This will not only keep it from itching, but make your new growth healthier.

Dreadlocks aren’t hard to take care of, they just need special attention and the right products. Be sure to visit your stylist every four to six weeks so she can make sure your locks are healthy and forming correctly. Ask her for recommendations on products she thinks is best for the care and maintenance of your dreads. With proper care your dreads will last as long as you want to wear them and look great.

Call now to book an appointment. Anastasia is a salon hair stylist in Oklahoma City, OK. Out of town appointments welcome.