If you have soft hair, you may think that getting dreadlocks is impossible. But the truth is, anyone can achieve this unique hairstyle with a little patience and the right techniques. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to get dreads with soft hair, along with tips for maintaining your new style.
Table of Contents
- Step 1: Prepare Your Hair
- Step 2: Section Your Hair
- Step 3: Backcomb Your Hair
- Step 4: Twist and Rip Your Hair
- Step 5: Maintain Your Dreads
- Tips for Getting Dreads with Soft Hair
- FAQs
- Hair Care for Dreads with Soft Hair
Step 1: Prepare Your Hair
Before you start the dreadlocking process, it’s important to prepare your hair properly. This means washing your hair thoroughly with a clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup or residue. You should also avoid using conditioner or any other hair products that may make your hair slippery.
Once your hair is clean, allow it to air dry completely. It’s best to avoid using a hair dryer, as this can damage your hair and make it more difficult to dread.
Step 2: Section Your Hair
The next step is to section your hair into small, manageable pieces. Use a fine-toothed comb to create even sections of hair, starting at the back of your head and working your way forward. It’s important to make sure each section is uniform in size to ensure a consistent look.
Once you have your sections, use hair elastics or clips to keep them separate while you work on each one.
Step 3: Backcomb Your Hair
Backcombing is a technique that involves teasing your hair in the opposite direction of its natural growth pattern. This helps to create knots and tangles that will eventually form into dreadlocks.
To backcomb your hair, start at the roots and work your way down to the tips, using a fine-toothed comb to tease the hair. Be gentle but firm, and avoid using too much force, as this can damage your hair.
Step 4: Twist and Rip Your Hair
After backcombing your hair, the next step is to twist and rip each section. This involves twisting the hair in one direction, and then pulling it apart to create a separation. This helps to create the dreadlock shape and encourages the hair to knot together.
Repeat this process on each section, making sure to twist and rip in different directions to create a more natural look.
Step 5: Maintain Your Dreads
Once you’ve completed the dreadlocking process, it’s important to maintain your new hairstyle. This means washing your hair regularly with a residue-free shampoo, and avoiding any products that may cause buildup or damage to your dreads.
You should also consider using a dreadlock wax or locking gel to help your dreads mature and stay in place. These products can help to smooth out any frizz or flyaways, and give your dreads a more polished look.
Tips for Getting Dreads with Soft Hair
- Be patient - it can take several months for your dreads to fully mature.
- Avoid using any products that contain silicone, as this can make your hair slippery and difficult to dread.
- Consider using a crochet hook or dread comb to help tighten your dreads and encourage them to knot together.
FAQs
Can you get dreads with soft hair?
Yes, it is possible to get dreads with soft hair. However, it may take longer for your dreads to mature and stay in place.
Can you wash your hair with dreads?
Yes, you can wash your hair with dreads. However, it’s important to use a residue-free shampoo and avoid any products that may cause buildup or damage to your dreads.
Can you brush out dreads?
Yes, it is possible to brush out dreads. However, this can be a time-consuming and potentially damaging process, and may not be recommended for all hair types.
Hair Care for Dreads with Soft Hair
Proper hair care is essential for maintaining healthy and beautiful dreads. Here are a few tips for caring for your dreads with soft hair:
- Wash your hair regularly with a residue-free shampoo.
- Avoid using any products that contain silicone or other ingredients that can cause buildup.
- Consider using a dreadlock wax or locking gel to help your dreads mature and stay in place.
- Avoid using heat styling tools or other products that can damage your hair.
By following these tips and techniques, you can achieve beautiful and long-lasting dreadlocks, even if you have soft hair. So go ahead, embrace this unique hairstyle and rock your new look with confidence!
