Starting Dreads
Getting Dreads For The First Time
Growing locs can be very confusing at times. If you’re considering growing out some dreads here are some things to take into consideration. Also do proper due diligence before starting your dreadlocks. There are many different ways to start. The more you know will help you on deciding what route to take. Also everyone has different types of hair and each person is unique in their own way. What works for some might not be the best for others. So continue on to find some tips to start growing your locs.
How do I grow Locs?
First thing to take into consideration is talking with someone locally who has locs. Everyones journey will be different. I personally started with a two strand twist which worked out best for me but you can do other styles as you wish. Each method works best for the many different hair types out there.
Starting your locs the right way will be very beneficial to your long term dreadlock journey.
How Often Should Wash My Dreads?
It all depends but you definitely don’t want to wash often. Some people like to wash biweekly and others every month or longer. As your locs get more matured you can go for even a longer range of washes. Also be sure to twist your hair when it’s wet or damp. Twisting your hair when it’s dry can damage it in the long term. Remember Do not wash frequently I’d say every 2 weeks minimum.
What Is The Best Product For Twisting Dreads?
There are a ton of different products as well as amazing upcoming products that work really well for dreads. You’ll find nothing but the best here at growinglocs.com but one thing to take know is that Beeswax is not a good product. Stay far away from it. One main thing to know is that it is hard to wash out and can sit in your hair causing bad smells and also collecting dirt and grim.
How To Avoid The Dreadlocks Awkward Stage?
Honestly the budding stage aka awkward stage of dreadlocks are completely unavoidable but you may have a different experience with the budding stage. When your hair starts the locking process some peoples have extremely terrible budding stage and others get by that stage easily. Truthfully if you really don’t want to be seen during those budding stages then you should consider getting a wig for the time being. You may also consider head wraps.
Can I Start Locs With A Perm?
This is a gray area. Some will say yes and others will say no. Whether you agree or you don’t agree is simply up to you, however. I personally think it’s okay for you to grow your locs while having a perm but that’s my personal opinion. Do keep in mind you would want at least 1-2 inches of natural hair to twist.
How Can I Grow My Dreads Faster?
This is a process that shouldn’t be rushed however there are some ways to speed up your loc process. Try to get your scalp massaged doing this for 5 to 10 minutes each day will encourage faster and healthier hair growth. Try not to stress out so much. Relax and practice deep breathing exercises to lower your stress. Also be sure to eat healthy. Whole grain, fresh vegetables and fruits will keep you health as well as your hair. Also apply castor oil and coconut oil to improve your over hair. Another thing to remember is to always get a good night’s rest.
Different Types Of Dreads
Click on any of them to get more information
How-To Video For Growing Locs
I don’t own this video I simply found it very helpful and thought you could too. Such cute kid! Love the video tutorial on starting dreadlocks
- Time of year: I started my locs in the fall under the recommendations of my hair mentor. There will undoubtedly be a period of time near the beginning where you locs will look less loc-like and more mop-like. This time for me, occurred during the winter, when it was easy for me to buy really nice hats to wear especially for special occasions. Now, I am not one these days to particularly care what people think about me, my clothes or my hair. So, I had no problem going to school or work with my hair in its beginning stages. However, we all have those days, where we are feeling less than cute, and I have to admit that it was nice to be able to dress myself up with various styles of hats without sweating profusely because of the heat.
- Parts: How you part your hair will be more or less permanent although there may be some merging later on. You should make sure that there are straight parts in the areas on your head where you will need them. For example, I used to wear a lot of styles when my hair was in twists that required my head to have a part down the middle-I just liked the way it framed my face. Now, I do not have a straight part there, so it frustrates me sometimes. -Just something to think about.
- Size: You will need to keep in mind that after locking, your locs will thicken up a bit. So make sure that you have thought about the size (as in circumference) that you will want them to be. This is also an important aspect to consider depending on the styles you would like to try. Smaller sized locs are usually easier to manipulate, but will be time consuming to re-twist when needed.
- Length of Hair: Some methods of starting locs require a bit more length than others.
- Texture of Hair: For example, if you have very soft/straight hair, it may be difficult for you to start your locs with twists or comb-coils, as they will not remain twisted after washing.
- End Result: Find some pictures that represent the way you want your locs to look in a few years. You may want a very manufactured-distinctly parted-symmetrical look which is perfectly fine, or you may prefer a more free-formed looking set of locs which is just as legit.
