Starting dreadlocks is a significant decision that marks the beginning of a long and deeply personal hair journey. Unlike most hairstyles that can be changed or reversed easily, dreadlocks are a long-term commitment that requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of the process. Whether you are drawn to locs for cultural reasons, spiritual significance, or simply for their natural beauty, this beginner’s guide will walk you through the most important things to know before and during the early stages of your loc journey.
What Are Dreadlocks?
Dreadlocks — also commonly referred to simply as locs — are sections of hair that have been encouraged to mat, coil, and lock together over time to form cylindrical rope-like strands. They are formed through a combination of hair growth, manipulation, and time. Locs can range from very thin and delicate to thick and chunky depending on the size of the sections used at the start. Once fully matured, they are one of the most durable and low-maintenance natural hairstyles available.
Choosing a Starting Method
There are several methods for starting dreadlocks, and the best one for you depends on your hair type, desired loc size, and how much time you are willing to invest in the early stages. The most common starting methods include the two-strand twist method, the comb coil method, the interlocking method, and the freeform method. The two-strand twist method involves twisting sections of hair around each other and allowing them to loc over time. The comb coil method uses a fine-tooth comb to coil sections of hair into tight spirals. The interlocking method uses a tool or needle to weave the hair in on itself at the root. The freeform method involves simply washing the hair and allowing it to loc naturally without manipulation.
Section Sizing
Before starting your locs, decide on the size you want them to be. The size of your sections at the start determines the size your mature locs will be. Very small sections create thin, delicate locs. Large sections create thick, chunky locs. Most beginners opt for medium-sized sections — roughly the size of a grape — as a starting point. Use a rat tail comb to create clean, consistent square or diamond-shaped parts before beginning.
The First Few Months
The beginning of a loc journey requires the most patience. In the first few months, your hair will likely look messy, frizzy, and undefined as the locking process begins. This is completely normal and part of the process. The hair must first coil, then bud, then loc before it reaches a clean and defined appearance. Avoid the temptation to constantly manipulate or re-twist the hair during this period, as over-manipulation can actually slow down the locking process and cause thinning at the roots.
Washing in the Early Stages
A common misconception about starting locs is that you should avoid washing your hair to help it lock faster. This is not true. Regular washing with a residue-free shampoo is important for a healthy scalp and will not significantly hinder the locking process when done gently. Wash your locs every one to two weeks and allow them to dry completely. Damp locs are prone to mildew and unpleasant odors if not dried thoroughly.
Retwisting and Maintenance
In the early stages, re-twisting the new growth at the roots every four to six weeks helps maintain the definition of each loc and keeps the roots neat. Do not re-twist too frequently, as this puts tension on the scalp and can cause thinning. As your locs mature over months and years, the re-twisting frequency can be adjusted based on your personal preferences.
Final Thoughts
Starting dreadlocks is the beginning of a transformative journey that requires patience above all else. The early stages can be challenging as your hair moves through the different phases of locking, but with consistent care, clean sectioning, and regular but gentle maintenance, you will develop beautiful, healthy locs that grow stronger and more defined with every passing month.