If you have long, straight hair and want to try out dreadlocks, you might think it’s impossible. However, with the right technique and some patience, you can achieve beautiful, natural-looking dreads on long straight hair. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of how to dread long straight hair.
Description
Dreadlocks are a hairstyle that involves twisting and matting the hair into long, rope-like strands. Dreads can be created on any type of hair, but the process can be more challenging on straight hair, which tends to be slippery and resistant to knotting.
How to Dread Long Straight Hair: Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare Your Hair
Before you start dreading your hair, you need to make sure it’s clean and free of any tangles. Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup or oils that can make the hair slippery. Dry your hair thoroughly with a towel.
Step 2: Section Your Hair
Next, divide your hair into sections using a comb. The size of the sections will depend on how thick you want your dreadlocks to be. Use hair clips to keep each section separate.
Step 3: Backcomb the Hair
Take one section of hair and hold it firmly. Use a fine-toothed comb to backcomb the hair from the tip to the root. This will create knots and tangles in the hair, which will eventually form the dreadlock. Repeat this process for each section of hair.
Step 4: Twist the Hair
After backcombing the hair, twist it tightly in the same direction as the backcombing. You can use a dread wax or gel to help hold the twists in place. Continue twisting the hair until it forms a tight, cylindrical shape.
Step 5: Secure the Dreadlock
Use a small elastic band or a piece of string to secure the dreadlock at the base. Be careful not to tie the band too tightly, as this can cause breakage and damage to the hair.
Step 6: Repeat the Process
Repeat the backcombing, twisting, and securing process for each section of hair until you have created dreadlocks all over your head.
Tips for Dreading Long Straight Hair
Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results when dreading long straight hair:
- Be patient – dreading long straight hair can take several hours, so make sure you have plenty of time set aside.
- Use a dread wax or gel to help hold the twists in place.
- Don't wash your hair too often as this can cause the dreads to unravel.
- Wear a headscarf or hat at night to protect your dreads while you sleep.
- Be gentle when handling your dreads to avoid causing breakage or damage to the hair.
FAQ
Can you dread long straight hair without backcombing?
Yes, you can create dreadlocks on long straight hair without backcombing. One alternative method is called "twist and rip," which involves twisting small sections of hair and then pulling them apart to create knots. However, backcombing tends to create tighter, more uniform dreads.
How long does it take for dreadlocks to form on long straight hair?
It can take several months for dreadlocks to form on long straight hair, depending on the thickness of the hair and how well you maintain them. It's important to be patient and allow the dreads to form naturally.
Hair Care for Dreadlocks
Once you have created your dreadlocks, it’s important to take good care of them to keep them looking healthy and beautiful. Here are some tips:
- Wash your hair with a residue-free shampoo once a week to keep your scalp clean and prevent buildup in the dreads.
- Use a dreadlock-specific conditioner to keep your hair moisturized and prevent breakage.
- Avoid using heating tools like flat irons or blow dryers, as these can cause damage to the hair.
- Wear a swimming cap when swimming to protect your dreads from chlorine and salt water.
- Get regular maintenance from a professional loctician to keep your dreads looking neat and tidy.
With these tips and techniques, you can achieve beautiful, natural-looking dreadlocks on long straight hair. Remember to be patient, take good care of your dreads, and enjoy your new look!
