How to Grow Dreadlocks: A Comprehensive Guide
Dreadlocks, also known simply as “locs,” are a unique and meaningful hairstyle that has been embraced by various cultures around the world for centuries. Beyond being a fashion statement, locs often carry cultural, spiritual, and personal significance. If you’re looking to start your journey toward growing dreadlocks, this guide will walk you through the steps to achieve and maintain beautiful, healthy locs.
1. Understanding the Basics of Dreadlocks
Dreadlocks are formed when hair naturally mats and tangles over time. Contrary to popular belief, they don’t require dirty or unkempt hair; in fact, maintaining clean, healthy hair is essential for the process. The locking process can vary depending on hair texture, method of starting locs, and personal hair care practices.
2. Choosing the Right Method
There are several techniques to start dreadlocks, and the right one for you depends on your hair type, length, and the look you’re aiming for. Here are the most common methods:
a. Freeform Locs
This method involves allowing your hair to mat and tangle naturally with minimal manipulation. You wash your hair regularly, separate locs as they form naturally, and let them develop over time. This method is often chosen by people with thicker or coarser hair textures.
b. Twist & Rip
The Twist & Rip method involves sectioning your hair and twisting small sections while pulling apart the strands at the roots. This method works best for straight or wavy hair types and allows for more control over the shape and size of your locs.
c. Backcombing
Backcombing involves teasing sections of hair toward the scalp using a fine-toothed comb. This method creates immediate volume and texture, speeding up the locking process. It works well for all hair types but can take a bit longer to mature fully.
d. Two-Strand Twists
This technique is popular for people with kinky or coily hair. The hair is divided into sections and twisted in pairs, eventually forming locs as the twists mature. Two-strand twists are a great way to start neat, uniform locs.
e. Interlocking
Interlocking uses a crochet tool or latch hook to weave the hair into itself at the root, encouraging the hair to lock together. This technique is particularly useful for maintaining locs with tighter roots and can be applied to a variety of hair types.
3. Preparing Your Hair for Locs
Before starting dreadlocks, it’s crucial to prepare your hair for the process:
- Cleanse Your Hair: Start with clean, healthy hair. Use a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup and excess oils. Avoid heavy conditioners, as they can make the hair too slippery for locking.
- Sectioning: Divide your hair into sections based on how thick or thin you want your locs to be. The smaller the sections, the thinner the locs will be.
- Avoid Heavy Products: Opt for lightweight, residue-free products that won’t leave buildup in your locs.
4. The Maintenance Phase
Growing dreadlocks is a journey that requires time and patience. Here are some key maintenance tips to ensure healthy locs:
a. Washing Locs
Despite the misconception that dreadlocks shouldn’t be washed, regular washing is essential for healthy hair. Use a residue-free shampoo designed for locs to avoid buildup. How often you wash will depend on your hair type and activity level, but generally, once every 1-2 weeks is a good starting point.
b. Retwisting or Re-Tightening
If you’ve started locs using a twist, braid, or interlocking method, you may need to retwist or re-tighten your locs every 4-6 weeks to maintain neat roots. Use a locking gel or natural oil to assist with the process, but be careful not to over-twist, as this can lead to thinning and breakage.
c. Moisturizing
Keeping your locs moisturized is crucial to preventing dryness and breakage. Use a lightweight oil (like jojoba, coconut, or argan oil) to seal in moisture and promote healthy hair growth. Spray your locs with water or a water-based leave-in conditioner before applying oil to ensure maximum hydration.
d. Loc Separation (Popping)
As your locs mature, they may start to merge at the roots. To avoid locs combining unintentionally, gently separate them with your fingers (a process called “popping”) after washing or when you notice them sticking together.
5. The Stages of Loc Development
Dreadlocks go through several stages of development. Knowing what to expect can help you stay patient and motivated:
a. Starter Phase
This phase occurs right after you begin your locs. The hair may be frizzy, loose, and unruly. This stage lasts about 3-6 months depending on your hair type.
b. Budding Phase
During this phase, your locs will begin to swell, knot, and form more solid sections. Some locs may start to resemble the final look while others are still maturing.
c. Teen Phase
In this stage, your locs will look more defined but may have uneven or frizzy areas. This phase can last several months as the locs continue to lock and compact.
d. Mature Phase
Once your locs are fully locked, they will feel solid and dense. This phase usually begins around 1-2 years into the loc journey, but the timing can vary based on hair texture and maintenance routine.
6. Dos and Don’ts for Healthy Locs
Dos:
- Do wash your locs regularly to maintain a clean scalp.
- Do moisturize your hair with natural oils.
- Do use satin or silk scarves to wrap your hair at night to avoid friction and breakage.
- Do stay patient – locs take time to fully mature!
Don’ts:
- Don’t over-twist or re-tighten too frequently, as it can lead to thinning and breakage.
- Don’t use waxes or heavy creams that can cause buildup and weigh your locs down.
- Don’t pull or yank on your locs, as this can damage both the locs and your scalp.
- Don’t neglect your scalp – healthy locs start with a healthy scalp.
7. Dealing with Common Challenges
- Frizz: Frizz is a natural part of the locking process. Embrace it, but you can tame frizz by lightly palm-rolling or using a light gel designed for locs.
- Buildup: Residue from heavy products can cause buildup in locs. Stick to residue-free shampoos and light, natural oils.
- Dryness: Use a spray bottle to mist your locs with water or a leave-in conditioner daily, followed by a light oil to seal in moisture.
8. Enjoying the Journey
Growing dreadlocks is more than just a hairstyle – it’s a personal journey that requires patience, care, and dedication. As your locs mature, they will become a reflection of your individuality and commitment. Take time to appreciate each phase and the growth that comes with it.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to growing beautiful, healthy dreadlocks that will continue to evolve and thrive over time.