So you’re here because you’re probably thinking of getting dreadlocks or you are just new in your locs journey.  Dreads are cute and all but just like pets, they require a lot of love and time for maintenance. The process requires a lot of patience, specific products as well as being extremely gentle with your scalp and the dreads themselves. Dreadlocks are more of a process rather than a journey. Though the maintenance is a bit intense at first (in the beginning stages), it wears off as the locs age. I know it seems like a lot but with the right amount of knowledge, it can prove to be the simplest thing ever.

In this beginner’s guide, we get to cover everything you need to know and be aware of before getting into your dreadlocks journey. So, do read on;

1. Use light products

While dreading your hair you need to use light products such as light gels, oils and shampoos as they are really key to supporting the growth process of your hair. For cleansing, use a light clarifying shampoo and for moisturizing, use daily gels and oils. This will help your dreads look neat without any white residue or buildup. You could use oils like olive oil and gels like aloe vera gel.

2. Avoid frequent re-twisting

Re-twisting your hair too frequently means constantly pulling hair in some sensitive areas and puts you at risk of hair loss. You need to give certain parts like your roots, edges and the nape of your neck some time to breathe. Therefore, try re-twisting after about a moth or a while longer to protect your scalp and your hair in general.

3. Wash your hair regularly

Most people get into the dreadlocks journey with the misconception that you don’t need to wash your hair which is completely false. It is very important to wash your hair at least every 2-3 weeks with a clarifying shampoo even at the beginning stages of your locs. Shampooing helps keep your scalp clean and free from buildup while water helps to kink and curl your hair.

4. Your locs don’t have to be permanent

Some of us (me) are extremely spooked by the thought of having to shave your head when you finally decide to remove your dreads. We feel like once you get them done, there’s no turning back. But this does not need to be the case because in some cases, you might be able to cut the dreads and then pick them apart with a comb over a period of time. Therefore, you don’t necessarily have to shave your head.

5. You still need to protect your hair

Just like other protective styles, you are still going to have to wrap your hair to prevent any damage. Wrapping your hair helps you keep it away from sweat and dirt therefore keeping your locs clean. Therefore, make sure you keep your hair wrapped while working out, sleeping or even working outside.

6. Have a lot of patience

Patience is really key in your dreading journey. Just like any other process, dreading your hair, maintaining the dreads and growing them will definitely take time especially if you have fine straight, hair. But all this will pay off once your hair starts to flourish. I mean, all good things take time, right?