Dreadlocks are a unique and stylish hairstyle that has been popular for centuries. Many people are drawn to this look because it’s low maintenance and can be styled in a variety of ways. But before you can start rocking your dreadlocks, you need to ask yourself – how long does it take to get your hair dreaded?
The process of getting your hair dreaded can take anywhere from a couple of hours to several months, depending on the method you choose and how long your hair is. There are different ways to start the dreadlock journey, and each method has its own pros and cons. From traditional backcombing and palm rolling to more modern crochet and interlocking methods, it’s important to understand which technique is best for you and your hair type.
Understanding the Basics of Hair Dreading
Dreadlocks have been around for centuries, and are a popular hairstyle choice among many individuals. The process of dreadlocking hair involves twisting and matting hair into ropelike strands. The result is a unique and stylish look, which requires a lot of maintenance and upkeep to maintain its appearance.
Hair dreading is a long-term hairstyle that requires time and patience. You cannot just wake up one day with perfectly-formed dreadlocks. It takes weeks, months, and sometimes years for hair to completely lock up and form dreadlocks. Understanding the basics of hair dreading is essential to knowing how long it will take to create your desired hairstyle. Factors such as the type of hair, its thickness, length, the method used to dread, and even personal hygiene play a major role in determining the time taken to get your hair locked up.
Different Methods of Dreading Available
Different methods of dreading hair are available, depending on one’s preferences, lifestyle, and hair type. The two most common methods are backcombing and freeform, but other techniques such as twisting, braiding, and crocheting are also widely used.
Backcombing is a popular method that involves sectioning the hair and combing it upwards towards the scalp. This creates a knotted effect, which can be further refined with the help of wax or other locking products. Freeform dreads, on the other hand, are created without any manipulation or styling, allowing the hair to naturally form tangles and knots over time. This method is often preferred by those who want a more organic, low-maintenance look. Other methods, such as twisting, braiding, and crocheting, involve more manual manipulation of the hair and can produce different effects depending on how they are done. It is important to choose a method that suits one’s hair type, preferred style, and desired level of maintenance.
Factors Affecting Dreading Time
The time it takes to get your hair dreaded varies depending on several factors. One of the significant factors is the length and thickness of your hair. Longer and thicker hair takes more time to dread as it requires more twisting, sectioning, and maintenance.
Another factor that can affect dreading time is your hair texture. Coarser hair tends to hold dreads better than softer hair, meaning that softer hair may take more time to dread. Additionally, how well you maintain your dreads with regular maintenance, such as washing and retwisting, also affects how long it takes to dread your hair. Therefore, having a good hair care routine can significantly impact your dreading process. Generally, the dreading time can range from a few hours to several days, depending on these factors as well as the method used to dread your hair. Therefore, it is essential to consider these factors when deciding to dread your hair.
Tips for Speeding up the Dreading Process
If you want to get dreads quickly, there are certain things that you can do to speed up the process. One effective tip is to avoid washing your hair for a few weeks. When you don’t wash your hair, the natural oils that it produces will help your hair to knot up faster. Additionally, avoid using any hair products, as they can make your hair slip and tangle less easily.
Another important tip is to be active and keep your hair moving. Sleeping with your hair in a scarf or tam will help your hair to form knots because of the friction of the fabric against the hair. Also, make sure to separate any loops or congos that may have formed, to ensure that your dreads start forming evenly. Lastly, if you’re really keen to speed up the process, you could consider using the crochet method. This involves using a crochet hook to tighten locks and create a uniform, neat look.
Maintenance and Care for Dreaded Hair
Maintaining dreadlocks is an ongoing process that requires patience and dedication. Dreadlocks need to be washed regularly, but not too frequently, to avoid unraveling. Weekly washing with a residue-free shampoo and a thorough rinsing is recommended. Be sure to dry your locks completely after washing to prevent mildew and an unpleasant odor from developing.
Dreadlocks need to be maintained by separating new growth from existing locks to prevent matting. This separation process can be done by hand or with a crochet hook. Regular maintenance appointments with a loctician are also recommended to keep your dreadlocks healthy and looking their best. With proper maintenance and care, dreadlocks can last for years and can be a low maintenance hairstyle option for those looking for a unique and striking look.
Removing Dreadlocks and Starting Over
Dreadlocks are an expressive and unique hairstyle that requires a lot of patience and dedication to maintain. However, there might be times when you feel the need to remove your dreadlocks and start over. It is important to understand that the process of removing dreadlocks can be tedious and time-consuming.
To remove dreadlocks, you can either opt for a professional stylist who would use special techniques to unravel the locks or you can do it yourself at home. It is important to note that either option will take some time. Unraveling your dreadlocks can take anywhere from a few hours to several days depending on the length and thickness of your hair. Also, one should be prepared to lose some hair during the process as the knots might have caused some breakage. Once the dreadlocks are removed, it is recommended to give your hair a break for a few weeks before starting the dreadlocks again.
Final Thoughts on Hair Dreading and Timeframes
In conclusion, the time it takes to get your hair dreaded will depend on various factors, such as your hair type, length, and thickness, as well as the method of dreadlocking used. It could take anywhere from a few hours to several months. However, one thing is for sure, it is a journey that requires patience and commitment, yet it can be rewarding once you achieve the desired outcome.
Therefore, before you embark on this journey, it is essential to do your research, find the right dread stylist, and have realistic expectations. Remember, proper maintenance and care are crucial in ensuring that your dreads stay healthy and neat-looking. So, enjoy the process, embrace your new look, and don’t be afraid to try new styles with your dreads.
Conclusion
Dreading your hair is not an easy or quick process. Depending on your hair texture, length, and the method you choose, it can take several hours to several months to achieve the desired look. However, the outcome is definitely worth the wait if you’re someone who loves the low maintenance, stylish, and unconventional look that dreadlocks offer.
Whether you decide to create your dreadlocks naturally or with the help of a professional, remember that maintaining them also requires time and effort. Regular maintenance sessions, daily care routines, and occasional root touch-ups are all necessary to keep your dreads healthy, clean, and looking fabulous. With patience, perseverance, and the right approach, dreads can be a beautiful and unique expression of your personality and style.