How to Grow Dreads
Dreadlocks are often associated with the Rastafari movement, but they have been worn across cultures since the fifth century, according to Francesco Mastalia, author of the book, "Dreads." Dreadlocks form when your hair knots and becomes matted after you stop brushing or combing it. This means maintenance of this hairstyle only requires shampooing. Dreadlocks can start to form in hair as short as 6 inches. This hairstyle requires commitment since dreadlocks take six months to a year to fully form.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Shampoo your hair the night before starting dreadlocks with a residue-free shampoo, and do not use conditioner for at least a week before starting. Comb hair once and let air-dry without adding any styling products.
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2
Use elastics to separate your hair into equal sections. Avoid making sections too thick because dreadlocks become much thicker over time, as loose hairs that would usually be combed out become matted.
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3
Remove the elastic for one section and begin to backcomb by combing from the tip of your hair up to your scalp. For hair longer than shoulder-length, begin combing in the middle of the section up to your scalp, and then from the tip to the scalp.
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4
Repeat the backcombing process for each section. Completed sections should stay easily separated and be slightly firm to touch.
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5
Secure loose hair tips by twisting tightly and using the thumb and index fingers of both hands to pull hair apart and up towards your scalp. Repeat until tips are knotted.
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6
Wash new dreadlocks two days after starting. Use residue-free shampoo and avoid conditioner.
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1
Tips & Warnings
It is natural for new dreadlocks to loosen after washing.
Be aware that dreadlocks take many months to form and look messy for the first few weeks.
Thick, curly and wavy hair forms into dreadlocks easier than soft, fine hair.
Maintain loose hairs by using a wide-mouthed needle to push them back into the dreadlock.
Do not use any wax in your hair. It hinders the knotting process and causes dirt buildup.
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- Photo Credit man with dreadlocks image by nutech21 from Fotolia.com
