Dread refers to a semi-circular or spiral-shaped alternative hair style. It is similar in appearance to a mohawk, with the exception of its smaller size. Dreads are attached to one’s head by way of natural human oils and waxes, and may be left alone or washed regularly. This article will provide information on how to wash dreads and make sure they stay healthy while maintaining the special look that they require.
Can I Wash My Dreadlocks?
Before washing your dreadlocks, it is wise to learn a bit about the history of dreads. Historically, dreadlocks are about more than just a hairstyle; they are a way of life for many people. They represent strength, unity and peace among other things to the wearer. Dreads can also be used as a way of growing one’s hair quickly, as noted in the famous case of Rastafarian leader Haile Selassie I. So it is important for those with dreads to understand that not washing their hair is part of its maintenance process.
You may wash your dreads regardless of how far along the development process they are. After two weeks has passed, it is recommended that you start cleaning your beginning locks. After that point, it is necessary to wash dreadlocks once a month in order to prevent oil and grime from accumulating. This will ensure that your dreads knot more effectively and more quickly, as well as foster beautiful and healthy growth.
How Often Should Your Dreadlocks Be Washed?
The answer to this question will largely depend on your lifestyle as well as on your personal preferences. However, there are certain general rules that will help you when deciding on the frequency of your dreadlock wash.
When To Wash Your Dreadlocks?
The best time to wash your dreads is at least twice a week. This frequency may vary if you are going through a rough patch, but washing your dreads on a regular basis will keep them healthy, clean and looking their absolute best. The best time to decide on the frequency of your dreads washing is when they start to get unmanageable; this generally occurs after 3 months or so of growth and conditioning. If you are caught in between two hairstyle options (such as short-ish hair above one’s shoulders vs. dreads), it is better to opt for the shorter version.
What Should I Wash My Dreadlocks With?
Dreadlocks are hair that grow out of your scalp and typically form a ring around the head. They are formed by twists in the natural hair that are made while they are growing. The best option of washing your dreadlocks is to use shampoo or other like products, but it’s important to not use too much or else you might cause damage to your hair’s structure.
Best Type Of Shampoo For Dreadlocks
The best shampoo to use on your dreadlocks is a mild shampoo that doesn’t contain any sulfate. Also, it’s recommended to not use a conditioner or other products with this type of shampoo.
The reason why you shouldn’t use a conditioner on dreadlocks is because they will weigh the hair down and cause it to clump together over time. You want to try out organic shampoos instead of the synthetic ones, because they don’t contain sulfates like the synthetic ones do.
Dreadlocks are hair that grow out of your scalp and typically form a ring around the head. They are formed by twists in the natural hair that are made while they are growing. The best option of washing your dreadlocks is to use shampoo or other like products, but it’s important to not use too much or else you might cause damage to your hair’s structure.
1. Neutrogena Anti-Residue Clarifying Shampoo
This shampoo works well on dreadlocks and is free of sulfates, phthalates, and parabens. It also contains Panthenol and Pantethine to help prevent split ends. The reason why it’s best not to use conditioner with this shampoo is because you don’t want to cause any extra friction to your hair. You also don’t want to use too much of the product when washing your dreadlocks.
2. Moroccan Oil Perfectly Undone Dreadlock Shampoo
This shampoo comes in a lavender scent and helps keep the hair soft by detangling it and eliminating any buildup that might occur over time. It contains essential oils that are known to prevent hair loss. It’ll make your hair smoother than ever and will leave it smelling great.
3. Dreadlock Shampoo with Peppermint Tea Tree
This product has a lemon scent that is refreshing and invigorating. It also doesn’t contain sulfates or parabens, which are the two most common ingredients found in shampoos. The peppermint tea tree oil that is added to this shampoo helps eliminate buildup and reduces pungent smells. This shampoo will leave your hair smelling great, while keeping it soft and manageable
4. Knatty Dread Dreadlocks Shampoo
This product is free of sodium laureth sulfate, which is commonly found in synthetic shampoos. It contains organic ingredients, including kukui and avocado oils that work to keep the hair soft and shiny. It also contains natural elements like honey, tea tree oil and peppermint to help eliminate all of the buildup that may occur on your dreadlocks.
6. Dr Miracles Detox Shampoo
This purifying shampoo is a great way to cleanse your dreadlocks without any harmful chemicals that traditional shampoos have. The reason why it’s best not to use conditioner with this shampoo is because you don’t want to cause any extra friction to your hair. You also don’t want to use too much of the product when washing your dreadlocks.
7. Dreadlock Detox Conditioner
This conditioner is free of sulfates, parabens and other harmful chemicals. Instead, it contains vitamin E, which is a natural antioxidant and ingredient that will help keep your hair smooth, silky and manageable. It also comes in an oil-free formula that won’t weigh down the hair and make it feel unmanageable. This product will leave your hair smelling great while keeping it soft and manageable
8. Locks ‘n’ Lace Organic Shampoo
This shampoo has a creamy texture that helps you to rinse out the shampoo from within your dreads easily. Also, this product does not contain any sulfates and is free of many harsh detergents. It will moisturize the hair leaving it soft and manageable. This shampoo also contains lavender, which is known for its relaxing effects on the scalp and leaves your hair clean and smelling great.
Why Are Some Shampoos Bad For Dreadlocks?
There are two different types of hair that grow on a human’s scalp. The first is the actual hair that grows from the scalp, which is referred to as “regrowth hair.” The second type of hair is called the “internal cuticle” or “dreadlock” hair. These dreadlocks are formed by twists in the natural hair made while it is growing. These dreads are not just flat-lying locks of regrowth; they have a structure to them and can sometimes be formed in multiple rings around your head.
The main ingredient found in shampoos that is bad for your dreadlocks is sulfates. These ingredients are basically detergents that dissolve or break down the bonds of proteins, cell structures and other natural substances in your hair. They can cause damage to your hair’s structure because they disrupt its “natural order.”
Avoiding Sulfate-Free Shampoos
Due to the fact that shampoos sometimes contain sulfates, it’s best not to use them on your dreadlocks. But just because you shouldn’t use sulfate-containing products on dreadlocks doesn’t mean that you can’t wash them with a regular shampoo with these types of ingredients. The problem is finding one without any sulfates. Some shampoos that you can use include: Pantene Pro-V Classic Clean, Shea Moisture African Black Soap Shampoo and Neutrogena Anti-Residue Clarifying Shampoo.
How To Wash Dreads – Easy Guide
Dreadlocks start from the roots of the hair and grow outwards, so you should start washing your dreads whenever the roots are wet. Also, wash your dreadlocks when the shampoo leaves a residue on the scalp or if it turns opaque.
Step 1: Cleanse With Shampoo and Rinse Thoroughly
Always wash your hair thoroughly with a mild, rich shampoo. Avoid using products that contain dye or peroxide; these can damage the dreads. The goal is to simply cleanse and then, rinse the hair thoroughly.
Step 2: Remove Residue
Once the shampoo has been rinsed out, try to remove any residue on your scalp with a wide-toothed comb or thoroughly brush out remaining product. You can also use conditioner as a detangler if it’s available so that you don’t need to rinse your dreads as often after washing them.
Step 3: Avoid Dry Scalp
Though dreadlocks are generally dry and tight, they can get flaky. If this happens, wash your dreads more often or try to avoid washing them at all. This is easier with wet hair than dry hair because water can remove excess residue from the scalp.
Step 4: Do Not Over Wash
The more you wash your dreadlocks, the more quickly they become greasy, even if you use natural shampoo. The reason for this is that dreads don’t absorb as much shampoo as regularly washed hair; instead, it’s naturally pulled out of your head by gravity.
Step 5: Allow to Air Dry
Allow your dreads to air dry or try not to put them in a bun or up in a ponytail. If the dreads are very wet, you can use an electric hair drier for about a minute.
Step 6: Avoid Dying Your Hair
If you want to add color to your dreadlocks, you can do so when your hair is dry; this won’t damage the dreads as long as you take care not to leave a residue on them. However, make sure that water isn’t dripping from your hair after you’re done dying and that your dyed ends don’t touch the scalp. Otherwise, dye will stain the scalp and make it turn yellowish.
How To Wash Dreadlocks When Your Scalp Is Itchy?
You may want to wash your dreadlocks if they’re itchy. This doesn’t happen often, but it’s best to find out what’s causing the discomfort before you start using some medicine. If your scalp is itchy because of neglect or because you’re overwashing your dreadlocks, then the problem will go away on its own as soon as you give your scalp time to rest and get accustomed to the hair.
It is possible that an accumulation in your dreadlocks is the source of your itchy scalp. When the scalp is itchy, it is possible to wash dreadlocks by kneading shampoo into the scalp, scrubbing vigorously, and then completely rinsing the shampoo out.
After you have cleansed your hair and scalp, try massaging some apple cider vinegar into your hair and scalp. This will condition your hair and scalp. Apple cider vinegar, with its anti-inflammatory and pH-balancing properties, may soothe itchy scalp and restore the natural health of your scalp.
Can You Wash Dreads If They Are Smelling?
If your dreadlocks are stinky, then you must need to wash them. The scent is often caused by a buildup of filth or by dreads that were not dried well enough after being washed, which results in a mildew stench.
The scent will be eliminated by washing, but you still need to let your hair dry completely to avoid any other unwanted odors.