Dreadlock FAQ

Are people with dreadlocks dirty?

There is a misconception out there that people with dreadlocks don't bathe. We bathe just as often as you do! When dreadlocks are taken care of, they are not dirty at all! They may not get washed as often as your hair does, but they also don't NEED to be washed that often. You see, when you have dreadlocks, your scalp basically ceases to be stimulated, so it no longer produces as many oils, and if your hair isn't getting greasy, then you don't need to wash it!

Do dreadlocks smell?

Your dreadlocks will probably develop a unique smell to them over time. It is unique because it is your own natural scent! Dreadlocks are like little aroma sponges, they really absorb the smells around them. So if you're in a room where people are smoking cigarettes, then your dreads will smell like cigarettes afterwards. You don't have to resort to washing them to get the smell out though! Try spraying them, either with a spray that is specially formulated for your scalp, or even a spritz of perfume. The bad smell will disappear and you'll smell fresh as a daisy!

Are dreadlocks right for me?

There are a lot of reasons why people get dreadlocks. Some people get them because they embody the abandonment of beauty. Some people get them because they think they look super sexy. Some people get them because they are tired of having to do their hair in the morning and want less of a hassle with their hair. No matter what your reason is, dreadlocks are perfect for just about anyone, black or white, and every shade in between.

You may not want to get dreadlocks if:

How should I prepare for getting dreadlocks?

Please wash your hair and scalp thoroughly. Use only shampoo, NO CONDITIONER. If you are worried that your hair is too fine and smooth to stay in, you can try bleaching your hair before you come in, and not applying the conditioner that comes with it. That will ensure your hair is coarse enough to stay in dreadlocks.

How long of hair will I need?

Your hair needs to be at least 6 inches long for it to be dreaded. Any less than that and it is harder to ensure that the dreadlocks will stay in without some help.

How do I take care of them?

Dreadlocks are the lowest maintenance haircut you can get. When you go to sleep sometimes they will 'set' and become very dense. All you need to do is shake your fingers through them and you're ready to go out the door! If you want to avoid your dreadlocks getting frizzy while you sleep at night, consider wrapping a durag around them before bed. Dreadlocks need to be washed once in a while. Usually every two weeks, though some people go as long as a month! After the dreadlocks are completely dry, they need to be waxed. Waxing keeps the frizz levels down and also helps to keep your dreadlocks tight.

How often should I wash my dreads?

Since the scalp of a person with dreadlocks isn't getting stimulated, the scalp isn't producing as many oils. When you first get your dreads, try not to wash them for as long as you can. When you notice your scalp is especially oily, daub it with a tissue. Most people last around 2 weeks without washing their dreads the first time. That's great!

How do I wash my dreads?

Washing your dreads can be really fun! Not only do you finally get a chance to scrub your scalp with your fingers, but you get to wash the remainder of the wax out of them too! If you are using liquid shampoo or a solid shampoo bar, scrub your dreads between your hands all up and down each dread. Make sure to rinse them all THOROUGHLY, squish a dread with your fingers, the texture of a rinsed out dread is pretty easy to tell from a soapy one. If you get out of the shower and discover that you're still a bit soapy, just jump back in for a rinse.

When should I wax them?

Your dreadlocks only need to be waxed after a shower or some maintenance. Remember to LET YOUR DREADLOCKS DRY COMPLETELY before waxing them. Those horror stories you've heard about bugs and mold in dreadlocks comes from when people apply wax to wet dreadlocks, sealing in the moisture and making it a perfect environment for mould to grow.

Which kind of wax should I use?

This can depend on a lot of factors. Is it important to you that you use 100% natural products? What colour is your hair? There are a lot of options out there! You can use the commonly used Knotty Boy dread wax. It comes in a light colour for people with lighter coloured hair, or a brown wax for people with brunette or black hair. There is the high-end Aveda Self Control wax, which is 100% natural and has moisturizers in it to keep your dreads nice and tight and smelling absolutely amazing. 100% Australian Bees Wax - This stuff is great for people with naturally nappy hair, it is a light and pliable wax that doesn't provide much hold, but does help smooth down the frizz.

My skin is breaking out! This never used to happen before I got dreadlocks!

The probable cause of your skin breaking out is a reaction with the wax you are using in your dreads. People with sensitive skin should take care to not apply as much wax to the dreads around their face, or switch the brand of wax you are using to something more gentle.

What about beads?

Beads are great!

Can I dye my dreadlocks?

Please do! You can bleach and dye your dreadlocks as much as you'd like. Please take note, however, to rinse them out fully. Make sure the water is running clear (while you're scrubbing the dye out in the shower). You probably won't get all the dye out at once, so be sure to use a rag or towel on your pillow that night. It usually takes a couple showers to fully rinse the dye out of a dreadlock.