How to Prevent Dandruff When Growing Dreads

Dreadlocks

Dreadlocked hair exudes subculture style while adapting to all settings. Deciding to dread your hair requires considerable thought and preplanning. The initial process is time consuming, and your hair must adjust to new conditions. During the adjustment period, the scalp is prone to dandruff. However, with the right approach you can prevent dandruff when growing dreads. If you train your hair to accept the new conditions prior to forming the cords, you're on your way to attractive dreadlocked hair.

Things You'll Need

• Residue-free shampoo Apple cider vinegar (optional) Specially formulated dread products

Instructions

1. Stop use of regular shampoos, conditioners, and hair products---such as gel and hairspray---at least two weeks prior to forming your dreads. These products hinder dread formation, and your hair needs time to adjust to different products.

2. 

   Wash your hair with natural soap that contains no chemicals and leaves no residue---such as Dr. Bronner's castile soap. Depending on the condition of your hair and scalp, the initial use of natural soap may leave your hair feeling straw-like or oily. This is only temporary.

3. Gradually reduce the weekly number of times you wash your hair. If you normally shampoo everyday, cut back to every other day. Then, cut back to once or twice per week.

4. Before and after dread formation, rinse shampooed hair with cool water. Heat promotes flaking of the scalp, while cold water provides stimulation and prevents dandruff.

5. 

   Rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar and water to balance oils and eliminate dandruff.

6. Use specially formulated dreadlock products---such as Dread Head HQ products---for forming your dreads and regular maintenance.

7. 

   Thoroughly dry dreads after washing. Squeeze out excess water, towel and air-dry. This promotes a clean and healthy scalp.

Tips & Warnings

• Add herb-infused water or essential oils to scent castile soap for shampoo.

Resources

• Dread Head HQ
• Knotty Boy Dread Stuff
• Dreadlock Maintenance