If you’re looking to achieve natural dreadlocks on short hair, you may be wondering where to start. Dreadlocks have been used as a hairstyle for thousands of years across cultures, and they can be achieved with just a few simple steps. Here are five steps to achieving natural dreadlocks on short hair.
- Stop using shampoo
The first step to achieving natural dreadlocks is to stop using traditional shampoo. Shampoo strips the hair of its natural oils, which can prevent dreads from forming. Instead, use a residue-free shampoo or a baking soda rinse to clean your hair. This will allow your hair to knot up and form into dreadlocks more easily.
- Use residue-free shampoo: Residue-free shampoos do not contain any ingredients that leave behind a buildup in your hair. They are gentle cleansers that remove dirt and oil without stripping your hair of its natural oils.
- Try a baking soda rinse: Mix baking soda and water together to create a paste. Apply it to your hair and massage it in, then rinse it out thoroughly. This will help to remove any buildup in your hair and promote natural dread formation.
- Separate your hair into sections
The next step is to separate your hair into sections. Use a comb or your fingers to divide your hair into small, manageable sections. This will make it easier to twist and knot your hair into dreadlocks.
- Divide your hair evenly: Make sure to divide your hair into even sections so that your dreads look uniform.
- Consider the size of your sections: The size of your sections will determine the size of your dreads. Smaller sections will create smaller dreads, while larger sections will create larger dreads.
- Twist and knot your hair
Once you have separated your hair into sections, twist and knot each section to begin forming your dreadlocks. You can do this by rubbing your hair between your palms or using a twisting motion to create knots. Be gentle with your hair, as rough handling can cause breakage.
- Use natural products: Consider using natural products like aloe vera gel or beeswax to help your hair knot up and form dreads more easily.
- Twist in the same direction: Make sure to twist your hair in the same direction each time to create uniform, neat-looking dreads.
- Maintain your dreadlocks
Once you’ve created your dreadlocks, it’s important to maintain them to keep them looking their best. This involves regular washing and re-twisting your dreads to keep them tight and prevent them from unraveling.
- Wash your dreads regularly: While you no longer need to use traditional shampoo, it’s still important to wash your dreads regularly with a residue-free shampoo or baking soda rinse.
- Re-twist as needed: As your hair grows and your dreads mature, they may begin to loosen or unravel. It’s important to re-twist them as needed to keep them looking neat and tidy.
- Give your hair time to mature
Achieving natural dreadlocks is a process that takes time and patience. Don’t be discouraged if your dreads don’t look perfect right away. It can take several months for your dreadlocks to fully mature and take shape.
- Be patient: It’s important to give your hair time to knot up and form dreads naturally. Rushing the process can result in damage to your hair.
- Embrace imperfections: Dreadlocks are meant to look natural and organic. Embrace any imperfections or variations in your dreads as part of their unique beauty.
In conclusion, achieving natural dreadlocks on short hair is a simple process that requires some patience and effort. By following these five steps and maintaining your dreads properly, you can enjoy a unique and stylish hairstyle that is both natural and beautiful.