How to Backcomb Dreadlocks
Dreadlocks are a popular hairstyle worn by individuals of both genders and all races. Dreadlocks have been sported since ancient times, and there are different methods of achieving dreadlocks. Dreads take several months to lock into place, but the backcombing method creates the look of dreads immediately. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Residue-free shampoo
- Blow dryer
- Metal comb
- Rubber bands
- Dreadlock accelerator
- Dread wax
Instructions
-
-
1
Wash hair in a residue-free shampoo and allow it to air or blow dry.
-
2
Decide if you desire thick or thin dreadlocks. Part your hair into boxes based on the size wanted. Place a rubber band around each box as you complete it.
-
-
3
Flip your hair upside down, and spray it with dreadlocking accelerator, making sure not to spray any on the scalp. This product allows your hair to get in the right condition for making dreads.
-
4
Remove the rubber band from a section of hair. Using a metal comb, start at the roots, and push the hair up towards the scalp. Backcomb or "tease" the hair towards the scalp allowing a few strands to slip free on each pass with the comb until the hair is completely frizzed up.
-
5
Twist or roll the dreadlocks between your hands to form the dreadlock and encourage the hair to knot. Continue backcombing and twisting until a tight dreadlock forms.
-
6
Tie the root and tip with a rubber band to keep the dread together. Take a small dollop of dread wax between your fingers and warm it in your hands. Slowly apply to dread from root to tip.
-
7
Repeat Steps 4-6 to dreadlock the remainder of hair.
-
8
Use your blow dryer to melt the wax in the hair so it can penetrate your dreadlocks.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Start backcombing dreadlocks at the back of your hair. If you make mistakes or don't like the size of your locks, it's easier to adjust.
The backcombing method of creating dreadlocks works best on long African hair and fine hair textures, such as Asian or Caucasian. Hair needs to be at least three inches to keep the dread from unraveling.
Be patient. With the backcomb method, each dreadlock can take at least 15 minutes to form--more for longer hair lengths. Ask a friend or two to help you backcomb dreadlocks, and start early in the morning!
You don't have to cut your hair or shave your head in order to remove dreadlocks. Though it can take hours, dreadlocks can be removed by soaking in a strong conditioner and gently combing out from the ends.
