There are a few things that you can do to help take care of your dreadlocks and ensure that they stay healthy and look good. Here are some tips for dreadlock care and maintenance:
Make Sure to Wash and Condition Your Locks Regularly:
Dreadlocks need the same amount of care and attention as any other hair does. Dreads can get itchy or uncomfortable, so you should always wash them at least every other day to keep them from getting dry and irritating your scalp. Dreadlock care and maintenance regularly will also help remove any product buildup from styling products you might have used on your hair.
It would be best if you used a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo that will clean your hair without drying it out or damaging the locks themselves. Using products with harsh chemicals or dyes can actually damage dreads, so be wary of shampoos that have chemicals in them.
Coconut oil is great for keeping your dreadlocks moist and healthy; you can use it as a conditioner after shampooing or apply it to your locks once a week as a deep-conditioning treatment.
Detangle Your Dreadlocks Gently:
Dreadlocks can become matted and tangled over time, so it’s important to detangle them regularly. You should always start a dreadlock detangling session with conditioner in your hair. This will help to loosen the knots and tangles without causing damage because of the slippery texture of the product.
Start from underneath and work your way up, using a wide-toothed comb or brush. You should never tug at locks that are matted or tangled, as this can cause breakage.
Keep Them Protected from the Elements:
Dreadlocks can be damaged by the sun, wind, and other elements, so it’s important to protect them when you’re outside. You can do this by wearing a hat or scarf when you’re out in the sun or by using a hair product that contains SPF.
You can also protect your dreadlocks by using a leave-in conditioner or oil when you’re styling them. This will help to keep them hydrated and healthy and will help to shield them from the elements.
Keep Them Moisturized:
Dreadlocks can become dry and brittle over time if they’re not moisturized regularly. You can combat this by using a moisturizing hair product, such as coconut oil, shea butter, or jojoba oil. You can also apply a moisturizing treatment to your locks once a week for extra hydration.
Be sure to use a moisturizer that is free of sulfates and other harsh chemicals. You should also avoid products that include alcohol, as this can damage your locks by drying them out.
Avoid Sleeping with Your Dreadlocks:
It can be tempting to fall asleep while wearing your dreadlocks, but doing so will increase the chances that you’ll have a nightmare experience with tangles and knots. It might seem easier to just sleep with them on, but it is actually much better for your hair to remove before going to bed.