Starting with dry hair ensures that the dreads will form properly and stay tight. Set aside 4 to 8 hours to dread your hair.
For a neater overall appearance, plan to make each dread the same size. The sections and rows in between the squares may be visible in the finished dreads. To avoid a patterned appearance, fashion the squares in a zig-zag or alternating format so that the finished look is more natural.
As you backcomb with one hand, use the other hand to gently twist the section you’re working on. This keeps it in shape and assists with the backcombing process. Use the same patience and care with each dread. If you rush through the last part of your hair, you’ll end up with uneven-looking dreads.
If you have coarse or curly hair, you can skip this step.
Many people with dreads do not use a dread wax or gel because they believe it obstructs the dreading process. However, if you have very fine or straight hair, it’s likely that your dreads won’t stay in unless you use dread wax. If you prefer to use a lighter product, opt for a gel instead of wax.
It’s okay to use conditioner with the twisting method because you want your hair to be smooth and tangle-free. Plus, thick, curly hair needs a lot of moisture, even in dreadlocks. If your hair feels dry, do a deep conditioning treatment on it before you start. Twisting or coiling works best on thick, curly hair. Typically, this method won’t work with straight or wavy hair, because the texture won’t hold. The twisting method is also great for starting dreadlocks with short hair.
Again, only use hair oil if you have thick, very curly hair. Using hair oil on fine or straight hair will only weigh it down and make dreadlocks harder to form.
If you need to, pin up the rest of your hair to keep it off your neck and out of the way.
As you twist, pull down slightly on the hair with your comb. That way, the tension will help pull your hair taut and keep the coil in place.
This step is optional, but definitely recommended. It helps keep the dreads tight as you work throughout the rest of your hair.
Once you’re done, you can remove the clips from your hair. If your dreads start to untwist, apply dread wax to lock them in place.
Don’t overdo the rolling, as the dreads will be more likely to unravel. Dreads usually fully lock after 3 to 6 months (but they could take longer depending on your hair type and thickness). Until then, it’s a good idea to roll them daily so they keep their shape.
Try spraying your dreads in the morning to help hydrate them after sleeping. If you don’t want to make your own spray, use a spray-on conditioner instead.
Use a dread bar or a reside-free shampoo that doesn’t contain perfumes and conditioners, which can cause the dreads to smell. Wash your hair in the morning so that your dreads have time to dry. If you go to bed with wet hair, mildew and mold can grow there.
For longer loose strands, twist them and then wrap them around the dreads before tucking them in.
It’s not necessary to rub the dreads too often. As your dreads mature, the new growth will naturally knot up about an inch from your scalp. Be careful not to overwork the hair at your roots, since you may cause it to fall out.
Removing dreads takes a long time, and you may experience some hair breakage. Take your time and go slowly, and don’t be afraid to give yourself a haircut afterwards.
