If you've got short hair and want to grow some long dreadlocks, you might be wondering if it's even possible. The answer is yes! With a little bit of patience, dedication, and proper hair care, you can achieve long, beautiful dreads even with short hair. In this article, we'll walk you through the process of getting long dreads with short hair.
Table of Contents
- How to Get Long Dreads with Short Hair
- Step-by-Step Guide
- Tips for Growing Long Dreads with Short Hair
- FAQs
- Hair Care Tips for Maintaining Long Dreads
How to Get Long Dreads with Short Hair
The first step in getting long dreads with short hair is to stop cutting your hair. Your hair needs to be at least 4-6 inches long to start forming dreadlocks. If your hair is shorter than that, you'll need to wait until it grows out before you can start the dreadlocking process.
Once your hair has reached the required length, you can start the process of forming dreadlocks. There are several methods you can use to start the dreadlocking process, including backcombing, twisting, and the crochet method. We'll go into more detail about these methods in the step-by-step guide below.
Step-by-Step Guide
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to get long dreads with short hair:
Step 1: Stop Cutting Your Hair
As mentioned earlier, your hair needs to be at least 4-6 inches long to start forming dreadlocks. So, the first step is to stop cutting your hair and let it grow out.
Step 2: Decide on Your Dreadlocking Method
There are several methods you can use to start the dreadlocking process. Some of the most popular methods include backcombing, twisting, and the crochet method. Do some research and decide which method you want to use.
Step 3: Section Your Hair
Once you've decided on your method, section your hair into small, evenly-sized sections. The size of the sections will depend on how thick you want your dreadlocks to be.
Step 4: Start the Dreadlocking Process
Start the dreadlocking process by using your chosen method to start forming the dreadlocks. This will involve backcombing, twisting, or crocheting the hair in each section until it starts to form a dreadlock.
Step 5: Maintain Your Dreadlocks
Once you've formed your dreadlocks, you'll need to maintain them to keep them looking healthy and beautiful. This will involve regular washing, conditioning, and re-twisting or re-crocheting as needed.
Tips for Growing Long Dreads with Short Hair
Here are some tips to help you grow long dreads with short hair:
- Be patient. It takes time for your hair to grow long enough to form dreadlocks.
- Protect your hair. Wear a scarf or hat when out in the sun or wind to protect your hair from damage.
- Use natural hair products. Avoid using harsh chemicals or products that can damage your hair.
- Be gentle when washing and styling your hair. Rough handling can cause damage and breakage.
- Get regular trims. Trimming your hair every 3-4 months can help prevent split ends and breakage.
FAQs
Can you get long dreads with short hair?
Yes, it's possible to get long dreads with short hair. You'll need to let your hair grow out to at least 4-6 inches before starting the dreadlocking process.
How long does it take to grow long dreads?
The length of time it takes to grow long dreads will depend on how fast your hair grows. It can take anywhere from 6 months to a year or more to grow long dreadlocks.
What is the best method for starting dreadlocks?
There is no one "best" method for starting dreadlocks. It all depends on your hair type, texture, and personal preference. Some of the most popular methods include backcombing, twisting, and the crochet method.
Hair Care Tips for Maintaining Long Dreads
Here are some tips for maintaining long dreads:
- Wash your hair regularly with a gentle, natural shampoo.
- Condition your hair regularly to keep it soft and moisturized.
- Re-twist or re-crochet your dreads as needed to keep them tight and well-formed.
- Avoid using heat styling tools or harsh chemicals on your hair.
- Protect your hair from the sun, wind, and other environmental factors that can cause damage.
With these tips and techniques, you can achieve long, beautiful dreadlocks even with short hair. Remember to be patient, take good care of your hair, and enjoy the journey!
