If you're someone who loves to experiment with their hair, you might have considered getting dreadlocks at some point in your life. However, if you have damaged hair, you might be wondering whether it's possible to dread it. The answer is yes, you can dread damaged hair, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind before you do so. In this article, we'll be discussing everything you need to know about dreading damaged hair.
Description
Dreadlocks, also known as dreads, are a hairstyle that involves twisting and matting hair together to form thick, rope-like strands. While dreads are typically associated with African culture, they have become popular among people of all races and backgrounds. However, before you decide to dread your hair, it's important to understand the damage that the process can cause to your hair.
How To Dread Damaged Hair
If you have damaged hair, you might be wondering how you can go about dreading it. The process of dreading hair involves twisting and matting hair together, which can cause further damage to already damaged hair. However, there are a few steps you can take to minimize the damage caused by the process:
Step 1: Assess the Damage
The first step in dreading damaged hair is to assess the extent of the damage. If your hair is severely damaged, it might not be able to withstand the process of dreading. If your hair is only slightly damaged, you might be able to dread it with some precautions.
Step 2: Prepare Your Hair
Before you start dreading your hair, you need to prepare it properly. This involves washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup. You should also deep condition your hair to help repair any damage and make it more manageable.
Step 3: Section Your Hair
Once your hair is clean and conditioned, you need to section it into small, equal-sized sections. This will make it easier to twist and mat the hair together. You can use hair ties or clips to keep the sections in place.
Step 4: Twist and Mat Your Hair
Now comes the most important step in the process – twisting and matting your hair together. You can use a variety of methods to do this, including backcombing, palm rolling, and twist and rip. However, it's important to be gentle and not pull too hard on your hair, as this can cause further damage.
Step 5: Maintain Your Dreads
Once you have dreads, it's important to maintain them properly to prevent further damage. This involves regular washing, conditioning, and retwisting. You should also avoid using any products that contain harsh chemicals, as these can damage your hair further.
Tips for Dreading Damaged Hair
If you're planning to dread your damaged hair, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Be gentle when twisting and matting your hair
- Use a clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup
- Deep condition your hair to repair damage
- Section your hair into small, equal-sized sections
- Use a gentle method for twisting and matting your hair
- Maintain your dreads properly to prevent further damage
FAQs
Can you dread severely damaged hair?
If your hair is severely damaged, it's not recommended to dread it. The process of dreading can cause further damage to already damaged hair, which can lead to breakage and hair loss.
Can you dread chemically treated hair?
Yes, you can dread chemically treated hair. However, it's important to wait until your hair has fully recovered from any chemical treatments before you dread it. This will help to minimize the damage caused by the process.
How long does it take to dread hair?
The time it takes to dread hair depends on a variety of factors, including the length and thickness of your hair, the method used to dread it, and how well you maintain your dreads. On average, it can take anywhere from a few months to a year or more to fully dread hair.
Hair Care for Dreads
Once you have dreads, it's important to take proper care of them to keep them healthy and looking great. Here are a few tips for caring for your dreads:
- Wash your dreads regularly with a residue-free shampoo
- Condition your dreads with a light, leave-in conditioner
- Avoid using heavy products or oils on your dreads
- Retwist your dreads regularly to maintain their shape
- Avoid using heat styling tools on your dreads
- Protect your dreads when sleeping by wearing a silk or satin scarf or bonnet
Overall, dreading damaged hair is possible, but it's important to take the necessary precautions to prevent further damage. With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy dreads for years to come.
