How to Maintain Dreadlock Roots
Dreadlocks require monthly maintenance to lock the new growth at the root. This process is called finger locking. Latch hooks and small crochet needles are used to finger lock the roots of your dreadlocks. Latch hooks are easier to use, as there is a small latch that covers the hook as it slides through the root of your dreadlock, so you won't accidentally pull or snag your hair. Latch hooks are ideal for children, who may be less tolerant to hair pulling. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Small crochet needle or latch hook
- Dreadlock wax
- Sea salt
- Water
- Spray bottle
Instructions
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1
Slide a small crochet hook or latch hook through the center of the hair cluster that comprises the root of your dreadlock. Visualize the needle entering the dreadlock at 12 o'clock.
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2
Snag the dreadlock with the hook and pull it through the center of the hair at the base of the dreadlock. Open the latch hook latch to release the dreadlock.
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3
Slide the crochet hook through the center of the hair cluster at the root of your dreadlock at the 3 o'clock position. Again, pull the dreadlock through the hair at the root and open the latch. Repeat this process at 6 o'clock and then at 9 o'clock for one full "rotation." If necessary, keep moving clockwise around the lock until the dreadlock is tight and all the root hair has been integrated into the lock. Repeat this process on all of the locks.
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4
Apply a small amount of dreadlock wax to the root area of a lock.
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5
Twist the dreadlock back and forth between your palms several times per day. This is known as "palm rolling" and it will integrate the small, unlocked hairs into the lock.
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6
Mix 1 part sea salt with 9 parts water in a spray bottle. Shake it to dissolve the salt.
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Apply the salt and water solution to your dreadlock roots once daily for three days. This serves to tighten the lock.
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8
Lock the dreadlock roots once per month or once there is approximately 1 inch of unlocked hair.
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Tips & Warnings
Apply dreadlock wax to your locks after shampooing.
The latch hook latch will close automatically once you start to pull it out of the dreadlock.
Wait a few days to shampoo your hair after locking your hair. Slightly oily hair will lock more effectively, whereas freshly-washed hair is slick and the small hairs near the root will slide out of the freshly-formed section of lock near the root.
Keep your dreadlocks smooth by sleeping on a silk pillow or wrap a silk scarf around your head at night. Cotton and flannel sheets will "pull" at your hair, resulting in frizz.
Many people find that their roots lock on their own, without much intervention. This is known as the "natural" method.
Don't wash your dreadlocks on a daily basis. Daily washings can lead to mold formation. Weekly washings are recommended.
Always use a residue-free shampoo on dreadlocks.
References
- Photo Credit Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images
