How to Dread a Beard

Beard dreadlocks can be optionally embellished with beads.

Dreadlocks in beard are a permanent fashion statement. Some ongoing care is required, including special shampoos which do not untangle the dreadlocks. The tightly twisted locks of hair cannot typically be combed out after a period of time, needing to instead be removed. For costume parties and other short-term wear, using a strong hold gel to temporarily tease and twist beard hairs may be a better option than dreadlocks. Dreadlocks are best performed on a beard at least 3 inches long.

Things You'll Need

• Anti-oil shampoo
• Long-handled styling comb
• Small hair bands
• Professional-quality dreadlock wax
• Hair dryer

Instructions

1. Wash the beard with an anti-oil shampoo, approximately 12 to 16 hours prior to beginning the dreadlocks. Rinse the shampoo and repeat, ensuring all facial oil is fully removed from the beard.

2. While the beard is still wet, use the tail of the comb to separate the beard into the intended number of dreadlocks. Secure the sections temporarily with the hairbands to hold in place while styling. Braid each section tightly and secure with bands. Wear the braids for 12 to 16 hours, or until ready for styling.

3. Release a single braid for styling into dreadlocks. Backcomb the hair to create a tangle that serves as the basis of the locks. Run the comb up from the tips of the hair to the roots, continuing until the section is tangled.

4. Twist the tangled section of hair clockwise into a cylinder. Place a small amount of styling wax into the palms, and rub the hands together slightly until the wax is melted. Rub the wax thoroughly into the twisted column, working downward and continuing to twist the hair in a clockwise motion.

5. Rub the column of hair vigorously between the palms of the hands, continuing to twist clockwise to maintain the beginning of the lock. Sufficient friction is applied to the hair when the beard does not untangle, after being released from between the palms.

6. Release another braided section of hair and backcomb, apply wax and twist. Continue until all intended sections of the beard are formed into dreadlocks.

7. Blow dry the new dreadlocks with a dryer on high heat for several minutes, to facilitate the melting of the wax. Avoid washing the new beard dreadlocks for as long as possible, ideally 36 to 48 hours.

References

• Knotty Boy: How to Make Dreadlocks
• Dreadlocks: Methods