Dreadlocks 101: Starting With 20 Dreads & Beyond | Tips & Styles
Considering a transformative hair journey? Dreadlocks, far from being just a hairstyle, are a powerful statement of self-expression and cultural identity, offering a unique path to personal style and a connection to history and tradition.
Starting with dreadlocks can seem like a significant leap. Fortunately, beginning with "20 dreads or less" is a good approach if you are hesitant to commit fully to the locs journey. This provides an accessible entry point, especially for those new to the style, allowing you to explore the look without a complete overhaul. It's a manageable number, letting you experience the process and maintenance without feeling overwhelmed. Thicker dreads, while offering a bold aesthetic, will absorb more water and take longer to dry, which makes them prone to buildup of residue. The thickness can also contribute to longer drying times, but careful management can mitigate this issue.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Dreads (Initial) | 20 or fewer dreads: A good starting point for those new to locs. |
| Number of Dreads (Microlocs) | 400 or more locs: For a smaller, more intricate microlocs look. |
| Number of Dreads (Thin Microlocs) | Approximately 250 locs: Achieving a thinner microlocs appearance. |
| Traditional Locs | 20 to 150 dreadlocks |
| Drying Time and Thickness | Thicker dreads take longer to dry and may be more prone to product buildup |
| Maintenance | Requires specific care, including less frequent washing to prevent loosening and mildew. |
| Styling | Offers versatility with updos, braids, and accessorizing, including the use of beads and charms. |
| Length | 20-inch loc extensions provide styling options. |
| Materials | Human hair, handmade loc extensions |
| Accessories | Crochet hooks/needles, combs, needles. |
| Colors | Many colors available for dreadlock extensions. |
| Swimming | Locs extensions safe for swimming |
| Styling Techniques | Styling with a line up creates a shape on the hairline, parting, or temples. |
| Versatility | Allows for various styles, including updos and braids. |
| Cultural context | In recent times, dreadlocks have become a representation of a free, natural and bohemian spirit. |
| Methods | Dreadlocks can be achieved through natural or freeform methods |
| Reference | Wikipedia Dreadlocks |
Your desired style and aesthetic vision are key factors in choosing the right dreadlock size. Microlocks, with their many individual locs, offer a neat and uniform appearance. If a super-thin look is desired, aiming for around 250 locs is advisable. The process of installing microlocks takes time.
Loc extensions made from human hair can be added to existing locs to increase length or repair damaged areas. They can be washed normally and are safe for swimming. Twenty-inch loc extensions offer a wide range of styling options, from updos to braids, and can be accessorized for a personalized touch. Their low maintenance nature makes them an excellent choice for those seeking a low-effort style. Dreadlocks can suit all ages, encouraging experimentation with different looks through braiding or combining the hair into thin dreads. They can look very striking and are a great way to experiment with your hair.
One of the key aspects of dreadlock maintenance is washing frequency. Avoid washing your dreads too often. This can cause the locs to loosen and unravel. Wet dreadlocks that stay wet for extended periods are prone to mildew, which can cause unpleasant issues. Dreadlocks are naturally textured and versatile, lending themselves to various lengths and thicknesses. Styling them with a line up can create definition. This involves shaping the hairline, parting, or temples for a structured look. The word "dreadlocks" originated with the Rastafarians in the 1950s and reflects a way of life.
The world of dreadlocks is incredibly diverse, with several ways to get them, including the natural or freeform method. You will be able to find the dreadlocks you want to experiment with. Synthetic dread extensions, such as 20-inch extensions, can cover the entire head. While longer dreads may cause some damage to your natural hair because of the tension of faux locs, you can pick a more lightweight version, which is soft locs.
Dreadlocks are a unique hairstyle that provides opportunities for expression, and short dread styles for men are an essential part of Indian culture. Create your own vibe by braiding or mating your hair into thin dreads. Dreadlocks always look cool on white boys, and dreadlocks offer a natural, cool look to the hair. They can be styled in various ways, but to create a look with a structure that will create contrast with your dreads, try styling them with a line up. The line up creates a shape on the hairline, parting, or temples.
The appearance of a dreadlock hairstyle can be further enhanced with the use of accessories or styling variations, for instance, a pop of color can add interest to any hairstyle. It is easy to shorten or lengthen the dreads by cutting or adding hair. These dreads can also be dyed, bleached or curled just like your own hair.
Whether you are considering starting your dreadlock journey or are simply curious about this captivating hairstyle, there are many resources available. From choosing the right size and type of dreadlocks to understanding the best maintenance practices, there are a lot of things you can learn.
