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If you have dreadlocks, you know that one of the most common questions you get is, “How often do you wash them?” And if you don’t have dreadlocks, you’ve probably wondered the same thing.
Washing dreadlocks is a bit different than washing other types of hair. In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about washing your dreadlocks, from how often you should wash them to what products to use.
We’ll also give some tips on keeping your dreadlocks healthy and preventing dreaded dreadlocks problems like mildew and dread rot.
So, whether you’re new to dreadlocks or you’ve been rocking them for years, this blog post is for you. Let’s get started!
Table Of Contents
Should You Wash Your Dreadlocks At All?
The answer is yes; you should wash your dreadlocks.
Dreadlocks are essentially sections of hair that are matted together. This can be done deliberately through a process of backcombing, or it can occur naturally over time if the hair is left to its own devices. Regardless of how they are formed, dreadlocks need to be washed occasionally to keep them clean and healthy.
If you don’t wash your dreadlocks, they can become uncomfortable and even smelly. This is because the hair follicles will produce sebum, an oily substance that can build up and cause the hair to become matted and clumped together. This can also lead to scalp problems such as dandruff, as the sebum will trap dirt and dead skin cells.
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How Often to Wash Dreads?
Washing your dreadlocks will help to remove all the excess oils and sebum from your hair, leaving it feeling clean and fresh. It is important to note that you should not wash your dreadlocks too often, as this can strip the hair of its natural oils and leave it feeling dry and brittle. A good rule of thumb is to wash your dreadlocks about once a week or every two weeks if you have very dry hair.
If you have just started growing your dreadlocks, you may need to wash them more often than once a week. This is because the hair is still adjusting to the new hairstyle and is more likely to become oily. Once your dreadlocks have matured, you should be able to reduce the frequency of washing to about once a week.
How Do You Know When to Wash Your Dreads?
There are a few signs that show when your locs need to be cleaned. For example, if your locs are tangled and matted, this is likely due to clumped together hair. During the dreadlock-forming procedure, different bits, sweat, dirt, excess oil, excess sebum, and hair products can be added to the locs. As such, your locks are required to be cleaned periodically.
- Your Hair Has Dandruff: If you notice that your dreadlocks are starting to collect dandruff, it’s a sign that they need to be washed. Dandruff is a telltale sign of an unhealthy scalp, and it can also be a sign that your dreads are not being properly cleansed.
- Your Hair Feels Oily: If your dreadlocks feel greasy or oily, it’s a sign that they need to be washed. Over time, your hair will produce less oil, but if you notice that your dreads are starting to feel oily, it’s a sign that they need to be cleaned.
- Your Hair Looks Dry: If your dreadlocks look dry, brittle, or damaged, it’s a sign that they need to be washed. Dreadlocks are susceptible to damage, and if you notice that your dreads are starting to look dry, it’s a sign that they need to be moisturized.
- Your Hair Has an Odor: If your dreadlocks have an unpleasant odor, it’s a sign that they need to be washed. Over time, your hair will absorb oils and sweat, which can cause an odor. If you notice that your dreads are starting to smell, it’s a sign that they need to be cleaned.
What Are The Best Products For Locs?
There are a few things you need to know before you start your loc journey, and we’re here to help.
First of all, it’s important to understand that locs are a hairstyle, not a haircut. This means that your hair will continue to grow out, and you’ll need to re-dread or retwist your hair every few months to keep your locs looking fresh.
There are a few different ways to dread your hair, but the most common method is to section your hair off into small sections and then twist each section until it forms a rope-like appearance.
Once your hair is fully locked, you can use various products to maintain your dreads, including shampoo, conditioner, and oil.
It’s important to note that you should only wash your dreads when they get dirty, which is usually about once a week. Washing your dreads too often can strip them of their natural oils and cause them to become dry and brittle.
We recommend focusing on your scalp more than your dreads when it comes to shampooing. This is because your scalp is where all the sebum (oil) is produced, and if you shampoo your dreads too often, you can strip away this natural lubricant, causing knots and tangles.
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We also recommend using a clarifying shampoo every few weeks to remove any product build-up from your dreads.
Regarding conditioning, we recommend using a light, water-based conditioner on your dreads after every wash. This will help keep your dreads hydrated and prevent them from drying out.
Finally, we suggest using oil on your dreads to help lock in moisture and prevent your dreads from becoming frizzy. We like to use light, non-greasy oil like jojoba or argan oil.
When it comes to maintaining your dreads, it’s important to remember that less is more. You don’t need to wash your dreads every day, and you don’t need to use a lot of products.
In fact, we suggest washing your dreads no more than twice a week and using a light conditioner and oil on your dreads after every wash.
If you follow these simple tips, you’ll have healthy, beautiful dreads that will last for years to come.
How to Wash Dreadlocks
If you have dreadlocks, you know that there is a particular way to wash them. This is because you do not want to damage the dreads or cause them to unravel. In this guide, we will show you how to wash your dreadlocks step by step so that you can get the best results.
- The first thing that you need to do is to gather all of the materials that you will need. This includes a dreadlock shampoo, a dreadlock conditioner, a wide-toothed comb, and a microfiber towel. You will also need a spray bottle filled with distilled water.
- Once you have all of the materials, you will need to wet your hair. You can do this in the shower or you can use a spray bottle. Make sure that your hair is completely wet before you start shampooing it.
- Next, you will need to apply the dreadlock shampoo to your hair. Be sure to massage it into your scalp and then work it down the length of your hair. You should shampoo your hair twice to make sure that it is completely clean.
- After you have shampooed your hair, you will need to apply the dreadlock conditioner. Be sure to work it through your hair and then rinse it out thoroughly.
- Finally, you will need to Comb your hair with a wide-toothed comb. Start at the roots and work your way down to the tips. Be sure to study your hair so that you do not cause any damage.
Now that you know how to wash dreadlocks, you will need to follow these steps every time you wash your hair. This will help ensure that your dreads stay healthy and do not come undone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you wash dreadlocks with regular shampoo?
You can wash your dreadlocks with regular shampoo, but it is not recommended. Regular shampoo is too harsh for dreadlocks and can strip them of their natural oils.
If you must use regular shampoo, be sure to use a very small amount and to rinse your hair thoroughly afterwards.
Can you use conditioner on dreadlocks?
You can use conditioner on dreadlocks, but it is not necessary. Conditioner is not necessary because dreadlocks do not require it. In fact, using conditioner can actually be detrimental to dreadlocks.
Conditioners can weigh down dreadlocks and make them look greasy. If you must use conditioner, be sure to use a very small amount and rinse your hair thoroughly afterward.
Can you blow dry dreadlocks?
You can blow dry dreadlocks, but it is not recommended. Blow drying is not recommended because it can cause dreadlocks to become frizzy and tangled.
If you must blow dry your dreadlocks, be sure to use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. This will help to minimize frizz and tangles.
Will washing my dreadlocks cause them to fall out?
Washing your dreadlocks will not cause them to fall out. In fact, washing your dreadlocks is an important part of the locking process and maintaining healthy dreadlocks.
How long do dreadlocks take to mature?
This depends on a number of factors, including the age of your dreads and how well you take care of them. Generally, it is accepted that dreads take about six months to a year to mature.
Do dreadlocks ruin your hair?
Dreadlocks can certainly ruin your hair if they are not properly cared for. If you neglect to wash your dreads, they can become matted and clumped together, making them difficult to manage. Additionally, if you wash your dreads too often, you can strip away the natural oils that keep your hair healthy.