Are you looking to grow dreads with short hair? Contrary to popular belief, you don't need long hair to achieve the dreadlock look. In fact, short hair is actually easier to dread due to its lack of weight and length. This guide will walk you through the steps of growing dreads with short hair, including tips for maintenance and care.
Table of Contents
- How to Grow Dreads with Short Hair
- Step-by-Step Guide
- Tips for Maintenance and Care
- FAQs
- Hair Care for Dreads
How to Grow Dreads with Short Hair
The first step to growing dreads with short hair is to stop cutting it altogether. You need at least 4-6 inches of hair to start forming dreadlocks. Once your hair has reached this length, you can begin the process of sectioning and backcombing to start forming the locks.
Another option is to use a dread kit, which will provide you with all the tools and products needed to start dreading your hair. These kits typically include a crochet hook, locking gel, and shampoo specifically designed for dreadlocks.
It's important to note that growing dreads with short hair will take more time and effort than with longer hair. You may need to spend more time maintaining your locks to keep them tight and prevent them from unraveling.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to grow dreads with short hair:
- Stop cutting your hair and allow it to grow to at least 4-6 inches.
- Section your hair into small, even sections using a comb.
- Backcomb each section by starting at the root and working your way down to the tip.
- Twist the section in the opposite direction of its natural growth pattern to help the dread form.
- Repeat this process for each section of hair.
- Use a crochet hook to pull loose hairs into the dread and tighten it up.
- Apply locking gel to each dread and twist it to help it maintain its shape.
- Wash your hair with a shampoo specifically designed for dreadlocks.
- Repeat the maintenance process regularly to keep your dreads tight and prevent them from unraveling.
Tips for Maintenance and Care
Here are some tips to help you maintain and care for your short dreadlocks:
- Avoid using conditioner, as it can cause your dreads to unravel.
- Wash your hair regularly with a shampoo specifically designed for dreadlocks.
- Use a residue-free shampoo to prevent buildup in your locks.
- Avoid sleeping on wet hair, as it can cause your dreads to become misshapen.
- Use a hair dryer on the cool setting to dry your hair after washing.
- Retwist your dreads regularly to keep them tight.
- Avoid using hair products that contain alcohol, as it can dry out your hair and cause breakage.
FAQs
Q: Can I get dreads with really short hair?
A: Unfortunately, you need at least 4-6 inches of hair to start forming dreadlocks.
Q: How long does it take to grow dreads with short hair?
A: It can take anywhere from 6 months to a year to fully form dreadlocks with short hair.
Q: Do I need to use a crochet hook to maintain my dreads?
A: No, you can use your fingers to twist and tighten your dreads. A crochet hook is just a helpful tool for getting rid of loose hairs.
Hair Care for Dreads
Taking care of your dreadlocks is essential for maintaining their shape and preventing breakage. Here are some hair care tips for dreads:
- Wash your hair regularly with a residue-free shampoo.
- Avoid using conditioner, as it can cause your dreads to unravel.
- Use a hair dryer on the cool setting to dry your hair after washing.
- Avoid using hair products that contain alcohol, as it can dry out your hair and cause breakage.
- Retwist your dreads regularly to keep them tight.
- Avoid sleeping on wet hair, as it can cause your dreads to become misshapen.
- Avoid using a towel to dry your hair, as it can cause frizz and breakage.
With these tips and a little bit of patience, you can successfully grow dreads with short hair. Remember to take good care of your hair to keep your dreads looking their best.
