Are you thinking of starting off dreads with natural hair? Dreads are a popular hairstyle that has been embraced by many cultures around the world. It is a style that involves locking hair into rope-like strands that can be worn in different styles. If you have natural hair, starting off dreads can be a bit challenging. However, with a few tips and some hair care, you can achieve the perfect dreadlocks. In this article, we will guide you on how to start off dreads with natural hair.
Table of Contents
- How to Start Off Dreads with Natural Hair
- Step by Step Guide
- Tips for Starting Off Dreads with Natural Hair
- FAQ
- Hair Care for Dreads
How to Start Off Dreads with Natural Hair
Starting off dreads with natural hair involves a different process from starting off with relaxed hair. The process involves locking the natural hair into rope-like strands. Here are the steps to follow to start off dreads with natural hair.
Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Cleanse Your Hair
Ensure that your hair is clean before starting the dreadlocks process. Use a clarifying shampoo to get rid of any product buildup or dirt.
Step 2: Moisturize Your Hair
Natural hair tends to be dry, and starting off dreads requires that your hair is moisturized. Apply a leave-in conditioner or oil to your hair to keep it moisturized.
Step 3: Section Your Hair
Divide your hair into sections using a comb. The size of the sections depends on the thickness of your hair and the size of the dreadlocks you want.
Step 4: Start the Locking Process
Starting at the roots, twist each section of hair until it starts to lock. Use a dread wax or locking gel to help the hair lock.
Step 5: Maintain the Dreadlocks
As your hair locks, you need to maintain the dreadlocks to keep them neat and tidy. Use a crochet hook to tighten loose hairs and to create a uniform look.
Tips for Starting Off Dreads with Natural Hair
Here are some tips to help you start off dreads with natural hair.
- Be patient. Starting off dreads with natural hair takes longer than relaxed hair.
- Use a natural hair wax or locking gel to help the hair lock.
- Avoid using excessive product on your hair.
- Do not wash your hair too often.
- Avoid using a hairdryer on your hair.
FAQ
Can I start off dreads with short natural hair?
Yes, you can start off dreads with short natural hair. However, you need to be patient as it takes longer for the hair to lock.
Can I start off dreads without using any product?
No, using a natural hair wax or locking gel helps the hair lock and keeps the dreadlocks looking neat.
How often should I wash my hair after starting off dreads?
You should wash your hair once every two weeks to avoid overwashing and drying out your hair.
Hair Care for Dreads
Once you have started off the dreadlocks process, you need to take care of your hair to keep the dreadlocks neat and tidy. Here are some tips for hair care for dreads.
- Use a residue-free shampoo to avoid buildup on your hair.
- Avoid using a hairdryer on your hair as it can cause breakage.
- Use a crochet hook to tighten loose hairs and to create a uniform look.
- Trim the ends of your dreadlocks to keep them neat.
- Avoid using excessive product on your hair as it can cause buildup.
Starting off dreads with natural hair can be challenging, but with the right tips and hair care, you can achieve the perfect dreadlocks. Remember to be patient and take care of your hair to keep the dreadlocks looking neat and tidy.