Do you dream of getting dreadlocks?
It's an exciting journey that requires both patience and trust in the process. Before you take the plunge, there are some important preparations and information you should know. Here is a comprehensive guide that will prepare you to start your dreadlocks journey with confidence and insight.
Preparations for Dreadlocks
The length of your hair : First of all, your hair should be at least 15 cm long to prevent the new dreadlocks from coming loose and coming up. If you have short hair or an undercut, the hair on top should be at least 10 cm long.
Patience : In the beginning, your dreads will have both good and bad hair days, but once they mature, they will always look great. That's why it's important to mentally prepare for this journey and be ready to spend time and patience caring for them. We promise you, the wait will be worth it!
Natural Dreading Process : Never use chemicals to force your hair into dreads. All products should be natural and residue-free for you to create healthy and beautiful dreadlocks. Dreadlocks come in many styles, from thin micro-dreads to thick Marley-like dreadlocks, but remember that your hair type and thickness will set some limitations.
| Natural Dreading Process : Never use chemicals to force your hair into dreads. All products should be natural and residue-free for you to create healthy and beautiful dreadlocks. Dreadlocks come in many styles, from thin micro-dreads to thick Marley-like dreadlocks, but remember that your hair type and thickness will set some limitations. |  |
Practical Preparations
Your scalp plays a crucial role in the transition to dreadlocks. You have been treating your hair and scalp a certain way your whole life, and now you need to change some of those routines to make the transition easier. Be aware of these topics
Before you get dreadlocks, we recommend that you change a few things
- Wash your hair every three days for about two weeks before starting your dreads. This will help your scalp adjust to the new routine.
- Stop using conditioner at least two weeks before starting your dreads.
- Switch to a residue-free/dreadlock shampoo at least two weeks before to avoid product residue in your hair.
- Order your products well in advance so you are prepared and can start your dreadlocks journey without worries.
Once you have your dreadlocks done, pay attention to:
- Your Washing Routine: Wash your hair when your scalp itches. Limit shampoo use to a minimum and train your scalp to go longer between washes.
- Itchy and dry scalp: Use products like RAW ROOTs Rescue Tonic to soothe an irritated scalp. Persistent itching may indicate that your scalp needs washing or stimulation.
- Dandruff: Without brushing, dead skin cells can build up as flakes. Regular washing and scalp massage can prevent this.
By following these guidelines, you ensure that your scalp and dreadlocks get the best possible start and care.
The 4 Phases of Dreadlocks
Once you've decided on dreadlocks, an exciting journey begins through four unique stages. Here's what to expect at each stage.
| 1. Baby Dreadlocks At first, your new dreadlocks will be loose and fluffy. This stage is called "Baby Dreadlocks" because they have not yet taken on proper shape. Loose hair is common and requires regular tightening. Be patient and consider professional help to care for them. |
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| 2. Young Dreadlocks After a few months, your dreads will start to settle in. They will gradually become firmer and require less tightening. Palm rolling and tightening products can help shape them. |
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| 3. Teenage Dreadlocks After about six months, your dreads will enter their teenage phase. They will become firmer, but may also appear shorter. Stretch them after washing to avoid shrinkage and lumps. Loose hairs will primarily be at the roots, where new hair is growing out. Use a crochet hook to groom the base if necessary. |
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| 4. Mature Dreadlocks After about a year, your dreads will reach the maturity stage. They are now firm, require minimal maintenance, and have gone through all the stages. Loose hair will primarily be newly grown hair at the roots. Repair the base about every three months and use a good shampoo to keep your scalp healthy. |
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