Are you tired of your long curly hair and want to try something new? Starting dreads with long curly hair may seem daunting, but it's actually quite simple with the right technique and a little bit of patience. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps on how to start dreads with long curly hair, as well as provide tips and hair care advice to keep your dreads looking healthy and fabulous.
Table of Contents
- How to Start Dreads with Long Curly Hair
- Step-by-Step Guide
- Tips for Starting Dreads with Long Curly Hair
- FAQs
- Hair Care for Dreads
How to Start Dreads with Long Curly Hair
Before we dive into the step-by-step guide, it's important to understand the different methods of starting dreads. The two most popular methods are:
- Freeform: This method involves letting your hair naturally lock and form into dreads over time. It requires minimal maintenance and is great for those who want a more organic and natural look.
- Crochet: This method involves using a crochet hook to interlock and tighten your hair into dreads. It's a faster method and provides a more uniform look.
For long curly hair, we recommend starting with the freeform method as it allows your curls to naturally form into dreads without causing too much tension or stress on your hair.
Step-by-Step Guide
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to start dreads with long curly hair:
- Stop combing your hair: The first step to starting dreads is to stop combing and brushing your hair. This allows your hair to naturally tangle and form into dreads over time.
- Separate your hair: Use your fingers to separate your hair into sections. The size of the sections will depend on how thick or thin you want your dreads to be. For long curly hair, we recommend starting with larger sections to allow your curls to naturally form into dreads.
- Twist your hair: Twist each section of hair in a clockwise direction, starting from the roots and working your way down to the ends. This helps to encourage your hair to form into dreads.
- Leave your hair alone: Once you've twisted your hair, leave it alone and let it naturally tangle and form into dreads over time. This can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months depending on your hair type and length.
Tips for Starting Dreads with Long Curly Hair
Here are some tips to keep in mind when starting dreads with long curly hair:
- Be patient: Starting dreads takes time and patience. It's important to resist the urge to manipulate or play with your hair too much as this can delay the locking process.
- Wash your hair regularly: Keeping your scalp and hair clean is important for healthy dreadlocks. Use a residue-free shampoo and avoid using conditioner as it can loosen your dreads.
- Avoid using products: Try to avoid using hair products such as gel, mousse, or hairspray as they can cause buildup and prevent your hair from locking.
- Protect your hair at night: Wear a silk or satin scarf or bonnet at night to protect your hair and prevent frizz.
- Get regular trims: Getting regular trims can help to prevent split ends and keep your dreads looking neat and tidy.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about starting dreads with long curly hair:
- Can I start dreads with relaxed hair? Yes, you can start dreads with relaxed hair. However, it's important to note that relaxed hair may be more prone to breakage and damage, so you'll need to be extra gentle and careful when starting your dreads.
- Can I wash my hair when starting dreads? Yes, you can and should wash your hair regularly when starting dreads. Use a residue-free shampoo and avoid using conditioner.
- How long does it take for dreads to form? The time it takes for dreads to form varies from person to person and depends on factors such as hair type, length, and thickness. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for dreads to fully form.
Hair Care for Dreads
Once your dreads have formed, it's important to take care of them to keep them looking healthy and fabulous. Here are some hair care tips for dreadlocks:
- Wash your hair regularly: Use a residue-free shampoo and wash your hair once or twice a week to keep your scalp and hair clean.
- Avoid using products: Avoid using hair products as they can cause buildup and prevent your hair from locking.
- Retwist your hair: Retwist your hair every 4-6 weeks to maintain the shape and neatness of your dreads.
- Protect your hair at night: Wear a silk or satin scarf or bonnet at night to protect your hair and prevent frizz.
- Get regular trims: Get regular trims every 3-6 months to prevent split ends and keep your dreads looking neat and tidy.
Starting dreads with long curly hair may seem intimidating, but with the right technique and hair care, you can achieve beautiful and healthy dreadlocks. Remember to be patient and gentle with your hair, and enjoy the journey!
