How to Start Dreads

Start your dreads properly to more easily maintain a well-groomed look.

Dreadlocks are a popular hairstyle for many people, but you really need to know how to start dreads for them to look good.
Some people prefer dreadlocks to grow "naturally" by not brushing their hair, but this can create a messy effect. If you start dreads properly, by sectioning and combing your hair, they can look very well-groomed.

Things You'll Need

• Dread wax
• Comb
• Rubber bands

Instructions

1. Separate your clean hair into inch-wide sections where you want your dreads to be. Use rubber bands to hold each section in place as you go. Your hair must be at least 3 inches long to begin making dreadlocks.

2. Beginning with the hair at the back of your head, take one section of hair and back comb it toward your scalp. Put a small rubber band at the base of the teased section of hair and at the end of the section.

3. Put a small amount of dread wax in the palm of your hand and roll the dread several times between your hands to help form a cylindrical shape. Massage the wax thoroughly into the hair to bind the hair together. Roll the waxed dread between the palms of your hands.

4. Repeat the process of back combing, rubber banding and rolling with each section of hair until your entire head is dreaded.

Tips & Warnings

• Set aside at least four hours to dreadlock your hair. If your hair is coarse, you may need to spend more time working on your hair. An assistant can help cut down the time needed to complete dreadlocks.

• Stagger the sections of hair for a random, natural look.

• Getting hair wet may make the dreads start to come out. You should wait until they are more formed.

References

• The Dreadquarters: Dreadlocks
• Knotty Boy: How to Make Dreadlocks