How to Start Dreadlocks: A Detailed Guide to Different Methods

Dreadlocks are a timeless hairstyle with cultural significance and unique beauty. If you’re thinking about starting your dreadlock journey, understanding the various methods can help you decide which one works best for your hair type, lifestyle, and preferences. In our Pepper-black's blog, we’ll explore different ways to start dreadlocks, including twisting, crocheting, freeform, and interlocking. Each method has its pros and cons, so let’s dive into the details.

1. Twist Method (Comb Coils)

How It Works:

The twist method involves creating small sections of hair and twisting them into tight coils using a comb or your fingers. Over time, these coils lock and form mature dreadlocks.

Steps:

1. Section the Hair: Divide your hair into small, even sections based on the desired thickness of your locs. 
   

2. Apply Product: Use a natural locking gel or cream to provide hold and moisture.

3. Twist the Hair: Use a fine-toothed comb to twist each section of hair into a coil. Twist in one consistent direction.

4. Secure the Twist: Use clips to hold the twists in place while they set.

5. Dry and Maintain: Let the twists dry completely and avoid excessive manipulation to allow them to lock naturally.

Summary:

The twist method is ideal for people with tightly coiled or kinky hair. It’s relatively simple to do at home or in a salon, but it requires regular maintenance to retwist and tighten the roots as they grow.

2. Crochet Method

How It Works:

The crochet method uses a small crochet hook to tangle and knot the hair, instantly forming tight locs. This technique works well for all hair types and provides immediate results.

Steps:

1. Section the Hair: Create even sections and secure them with rubber bands or clips.

2. Backcomb: Lightly backcomb each section to create volume and a tangled base.

3. Use the Crochet Hook: Insert the crochet hook into the section of hair and pull strands through to create knots. Repeat this motion until the section forms a tight loc.

4. Palm Roll: Roll the loc between your palms to smooth and shape it.

Summary:

The crochet method is fast and effective, offering instant locs. It’s especially suitable for straight or wavy hair, but it requires skill and precision, so visiting a professional may be a good idea.

3. Freeform Method

How It Works:

The freeform method allows hair to naturally mat and lock over time without much interference. This low-maintenance approach celebrates the organic beauty of dreadlocks.

Steps:

1. Wash and Go: Stop combing or detangling your hair. Allow it to grow and naturally section.

2. Separate Locs: Occasionally separate sections to prevent larger clumps if desired.

3. Wash Regularly: Keep your hair clean to encourage healthy locking. Use residue-free shampoos.

Summary:

Freeform locs are perfect for those seeking a natural, low-maintenance option. While this method requires patience, the result is a unique and authentic set of dreadlocks that reflect your hair’s natural texture and growth pattern.

4. Interlocking Method

How It Works:

Interlocking involves pulling the end of the hair through the root to create a knot, tightening the loc at the scalp. This method works well for those who want a more secure base and is great for all hair types.

Steps:

1. Section the Hair: Divide the hair into small sections.

2. Thread the Hair: Use an interlocking tool or your fingers to loop the end of the loc through the root.

3. Repeat the Process: Continue pulling the loc through the root in different directions (north, south, east, west) to tighten the base.

4. Smooth and Shape: Palm roll the locs to maintain their cylindrical shape.

Summary:

Interlocking provides a neat and secure look, making it ideal for those who lead active lifestyles or want a longer-lasting solution between maintenance sessions. It’s also a great choice for finer hair textures.

5. Backcombing Method

How It Works:

Backcombing involves teasing the hair toward the scalp to create knots, which eventually form dreadlocks. This method is suitable for straight or wavy hair.

Steps:

1. Section the Hair: Divide your hair into sections.

2. Backcomb Each Section: Use a fine-toothed comb to tease the hair toward the scalp, creating knots. 
   

3. Secure the Locs: Apply a small amount of locking gel or wax to hold the knots in place.

4. Palm Roll: Roll the locs between your hands to shape and smooth them.

Summary:

Backcombing is effective for those with straighter hair textures. While it requires patience and some effort, it’s a reliable way to start dreadlocks and can provide instant volume.

Conclusion

Starting dreadlocks is an exciting journey, and the method you choose will depend on your hair type, lifestyle, and desired look. Here’s a quick recap:

• Twist Method: Great for tightly coiled hair, requires regular maintenance.

• Crochet Method: Provides instant locs, ideal for all hair types, especially straight or wavy.

• Freeform Method: Low-maintenance and natural, perfect for a unique and organic look.

• Interlocking Method: Secure and neat, works for all hair types, ideal for active lifestyles.

• Backcombing Method: Suitable for straighter hair, creates volume and knots quickly.

Whichever method you choose, remember that patience and proper care are key to healthy, beautiful dreadlocks. Embrace the journey and enjoy the process of creating a style that’s uniquely yours!