Have you been dreaming of having dreadlocks but have short hair? Fear not, as you can achieve those coveted locks right at the comfort of your own home. In this article, we will guide you on how to do dreads on short hair at home, with easy steps to follow and tips to ensure the best result.
Table of Contents
- How to Do Dreads on Short Hair
- Step-by-Step Guide
- Tips for a Successful Dreadlock Style
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Hair Care for Dreadlocks
How to Do Dreads on Short Hair
Dreadlocks on short hair can be achieved through proper twisting and locking techniques. The process is fairly simple, but it requires patience and dedication to achieve the desired outcome. The following steps will guide you on how to do dreads on short hair at home.
Step 1: Prepare Your Hair
The first step is to ensure that your hair is clean and free from any products, such as oils or gels. Wash your hair thoroughly and let it dry completely before starting the process.
Step 2: Divide Your Hair
Divide your hair into small sections, using hair clips or rubber bands. The size of each section will depend on how thick you want your dreadlocks to be.
Step 3: Twist Your Hair
Take a small section of your hair and twist it tightly in one direction. Keep twisting until the hair starts to coil on itself. Repeat the process until all sections of your hair are twisted.
Step 4: Backcomb Your Hair
Using a small comb, backcomb each section of your hair to create a base for the dreadlocks. Start at the root of the hair and comb towards the tip, making sure to create a tight knot at the base of each section.
Step 5: Palm Roll Your Hair
After backcombing, palm roll each section of your hair to help the hair lock in place. Rub the twisted hair between your palms until it starts to tighten and take on the appearance of a dreadlock.
Step 6: Maintain Your Dreadlocks
Continue to twist, backcomb, and palm roll your hair until all sections have been converted into dreadlocks. To maintain your dreadlocks, wash your hair regularly and re-twist and palm roll each dreadlock to keep it tight and well-formed.
Step-by-Step Guide
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do dreads on short hair at home:
- Prepare your hair by washing it thoroughly and letting it dry completely.
- Divide your hair into small sections using hair clips or rubber bands.
- Twist each section of your hair tightly in one direction until it starts to coil on itself.
- Backcomb each section of your hair, starting at the root and combing towards the tip to create a tight knot at the base.
- Palm roll each section of your hair by rubbing the twisted hair between your palms until it starts to tighten and take on the appearance of a dreadlock.
- Repeat steps 3-5 until all sections of your hair have been converted into dreadlocks.
- Maintain your dreadlocks by washing your hair regularly and re-twisting and palm rolling each dreadlock to keep it tight and well-formed.
Tips for a Successful Dreadlock Style
Here are some tips to ensure that you achieve the best result when doing dreads on short hair at home:
- Use a clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup on your hair before starting the process.
- Apply a natural oil, such as coconut or olive oil, to your hair to help with the twisting and locking process.
- Use a small comb to backcomb each section of your hair to create a tight knot at the base.
- Be patient and take your time when twisting and palm rolling each section of your hair.
- Wrap a scarf or bandana around your hair at night to help maintain the shape and form of your dreadlocks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to do dreadlocks on short hair?
The time it takes to do dreadlocks on short hair will depend on how many sections of hair you have and how thick you want your dreadlocks to be. On average, it can take anywhere from 4-8 hours to complete the process.
Can I wash my hair after doing dreadlocks?
Yes, you can wash your hair after doing dreadlocks. It is important to wash your hair regularly to maintain the health of your scalp and prevent any buildup that may affect the longevity of your dreadlocks.
Can I do dreadlocks on relaxed hair?
Yes, you can do dreadlocks on relaxed hair. However, it is recommended that you wait at least 6-8 weeks after getting a relaxer before starting the process to ensure that your hair is strong enough to withstand the twisting and locking process.
Hair Care for Dreadlocks
Proper hair care is essential to ensure the longevity and health of your dreadlocks. Here are some tips to help you take care of your dreadlocks:
- Wash your hair regularly with a clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup.
- Avoid using heavy oils or products on your hair as they can weigh down your dreadlocks and prevent them from locking properly.
- Wrap a scarf or bandana around your hair at night to help maintain the shape and form of your dreadlocks.
- Re-twist and palm roll your dreadlocks regularly to keep them tight and well-formed.
With these easy steps and tips, you can achieve dreadlocks on short hair right at the comfort of your own home. Remember to be patient and take your time, as the process may take a few hours to complete. With proper care and maintenance, your dreadlocks can last for months or even years, giving you that unique and edgy look that you desire.
