How to Dread Short Hair: A Comprehensive Tutorial

Dreadlocks, also known as locs, represent a hairstyle rich in cultural significance and aesthetic appeal, embraced globally across diverse communities. Initiating the dreading process with shorter hair offers a strategic advantage, simplifying the journey toward achieving mature, full-bodied locs later on. This tutorial explores two primary methods for initiating dreads: the brush method and the twist method, providing a detailed guide to each.

Preparing for Your Dreadlock Journey

Before embarking on the dreading process, it's essential to understand the ideal hair length and the timeline for dreadlock maturation. While dreads can be started with hair as short as three inches, six inches is often considered ideal, as it allows for easier manipulation and a quicker settling process. According to Laura Martin, a Licensed Cosmetologist, while shorter hair can be dreaded, it may require more patience to achieve the desired results. It typically takes around three months for newly formed locs to feel secure and approximately six months for them to smooth out and fully settle.

Method 1: The Brush Method

This method is particularly effective for individuals with short, coarse hair. It involves using a brush to encourage the hair to form into small, matted sections.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Sectioning: Begin by dividing your hair into small, manageable sections, approximately 1 inch (2 cm) each. Creating a neat grid pattern ensures a uniform look.
2. Brushing: Take a section of hair and, using a soft-bristled brush or a sponge brush, make small, clockwise circular motions. Continue this motion until the hair begins to coil and form into a ball. This process should only take a minute or two per section.
3. Moisturizing and Setting: Apply a moisturizing loc cream or wax to each newly formed ball of hair. This step is crucial for moisturizing the hair and helping the dreads maintain their shape.
4. Securing: To help hold the dreads in place, especially if your hair is fine or straight, use small hair clips or elastic bands. Apply the elastic band under the ball, near the root of the hair. If the texture of your hair is medium to coarse, you can skip this step.
5. Drying: Use a hair dryer to dry your locks completely. Touch them and make sure that they are no longer wet, but remain moisturized by your wax.
6. Setting Time: Allow the dreads to set for at least three hours before touching them or going to sleep. This allows the wax or cream to fully set and helps the dreads maintain their shape. For optimal results, consider sitting under a hooded dryer rather than using a hair dryer.

Method 2: The Twist Method

The twist method is another popular technique for starting dreads, especially suitable for those with slightly longer or more textured hair.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Sectioning: Similar to the brush method, begin by sectioning your hair into 1x1 inch (2.54 cm x 2.54 cm) squares. This ensures a consistent size and pattern for your dreads.
2. Preparation: Grab a small portion of hair and comb the knots out of it. Continue to do this all over the head, making 1x1 inch (2.54 cm x 2.54 cm) squares.
3. Moisturizing: Rub a moisturizing loc cream into each portion that you separated with your hand. This step is vital for keeping your hair hydrated and promoting healthy dreadlock formation.
4. Twisting: Use a rat tail comb and insert it at the root of the hair. Twist the comb while pulling, until you work your way to the end of the hair. Keep the hair in the teeth as you twist. This technique helps to create a tight, uniform twist.
5. Spacing: Continue creating dreads across the head horizontally, spacing them out an inch (2.54 cm) apart from one another. Consistent spacing ensures a balanced and aesthetically pleasing look.
6. Securing (Optional): If you wish, you can secure the end of the hair with a rubber band or a small hair clip. This can help the twists hold their shape, especially in the early stages.
7. Setting Time: Let your dreads set for at least three hours before touching them or going to sleep. This allows the twists to settle and begin the locking process.

Additional Tips and Techniques

Combining and Extending Dreads

For individuals looking to add length or volume to their dreads, Ndeye Anta Niang, a Hair Stylist and Master Braider, suggests a simple approach: pulling the bottom of your hair and then connecting the tip of the dread to another one. Alternatively, you could opt for braiding, incorporating Afro bulk hair that resembles the dread, and integrating the two. This method involves a braiding technique.

Read also: Managing Hair Loss from Chemo

The Importance of a Licensed Cosmetologist

Techniques benefit from the guidance of a licensed cosmetologist. Laura Martin, a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia, has extensive experience in cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. Consulting with a professional like Laura can provide personalized advice and ensure the health and integrity of your hair throughout the dreading process.

Maintaining Your Dreadlocks

Maintaining healthy and well-formed dreadlocks requires consistent care and attention. Regular moisturizing is essential to prevent dryness and breakage. Using quality loc creams and oils can help keep your dreads hydrated and nourished. Additionally, regular retwisting or palm rolling can help maintain the shape and definition of your dreads as they mature.

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