Frequently Asked Quetions About Dreads

What are dreadlocks? 
Dreadlocks are sections of matted hair.

How long does my hair have to be to make dreadlocks?
We recommend it to be at least four inches (10cm) long.

Will my hair grow when I have dreadlocks?
Your hair will grow when you have dreadlocks, and there is some upkeep involved in dreading the roots.  

What do I do when my hair grows? How do I dreadlock it?
Check out our Maintaining Dreads section – it may seem like a bit of work but it is definitely worth it!

If I get dreadlocks and I don't like them will I have to shave my hair?
Nope. Here are some ways to take dreadlocks out, remembering in the last two that the hair will be really damaged underneath. Use a lot of conditioner and moisturizer:

1. Don’t care about your hair? You can cut or shave your head if you don't care about your hair; this is the fastest way to remove the dreadlocks. When your roots grow (as above) they are not always fully dreaded. The amount of hair at the root will vary but can easily grow to an inch or more (cut them off just after this). This being the case, you will have very short hair when you do cut off your dreads!
2. Wouldn’t mind having a bit left? Cut the locks until they are about 3 inches long and then soak the rest of them in a really powerful conditioner and comb them out. This will leave you with about 4 or 5 inches of hair. It can be a very slow and painful process.
3. You love your hair and want to keep it? Just soak the dreadlocks in a really powerful conditioner and comb them out, it will take a long time and you should use a stiff (metal is the best for this) comb. You will see a lot of hair come out in the process – this is just hair that would have fallen off your head in the normal removal cycle but has become knotted in your dreadies.

Can I dread my own hair?
Of course you can dreadlock your hair yourself! Check out our Making Dreads section!

Does having dreads make my scalp itch?
Not at all, unless your head itches already I guess? Just keep them clean!

How long until the dreadlocks look like dreadlocks?
Your hair will look like dreadlocks after you make them but will take a few months before they mature properly.

Can I wash my dreadlocks?
Yes, you can wash your dreadlocks. You should wash your dreadlocks at least once a week, but most people wash every three days. Make sure you use a residue free shampoo when you wash your dreads, it's the most important product you can use. Not sure where to look? Try your local health food store. Make sure you ask for an all natural (NO CHEMICALS WHATSOEVER…not even one) shampoo.

And conditioner?
Throw it out! It is no longer needed! You don’t want your dreads to be conditioned as they will literally start to fall apart – plus the natural oils that the scalp produces condition them just enough! (For more detailed washing info – check out our Washing Dreads page)

What shampoo should I use?
Regular shampoo is made to make hair smooth and shiny. This is not what we want when we have dreads. Also, because most normal shampoos contain residues and they are bad news for dreads! Residues are found in lots of shampoos, styling products, conditioners and other hair care products. These residues condition your hair and prevent your hair from knotting and tangling. That is the total opposite effect to what you want for your dredlocks. You normally get rid of these residues from your hair by brushing it…but der…you don’t brush your hair anymore..do ya? You need to be using a shampoo that leaves no residue and also removes residue. This kind of shampoo is so important for your hair also because dreads like to hold onto stuff. They will collect the residue inside the dread and before you know it your dreads could be growing mildew or even mold. Not only does it look bad, it starts to smell like 3 week old dirty socks. Residues can also cause dandruff which is no fun when you have dreads…it is ten times worse because it is really hard to get rid of the flakes.

Do I have to stop washing my hair for a long time before I make dreadlocks?
Not at all, check out our Making Dreads page for more info!

Can i swim in the ocean with dreads?
Absolutely! This will help your dreads stay nice and solid and even help to tighten them. Just make sure to rinse thoroughly and completely dry them.

Can I swim in a pool with my dreads?
If the pool is chlorinated, just try not to spend too much time with your dreads under the water, especially in the early stages.

Why do I need dread wax?
Dread wax is needed to hold brand new dreads together; to help form tight dreads, to help keep hair moisturized and build up water resistance; keeps loose hairs under control. (Check out our state of the art dread wax – Dredwacks!)

Do dreads smell bad?
No. Not if you continue to wash them on a regular basis. Check out our Washing Your Dreads page.

If you have any other questions about Dreads or Souljar Dreads products please feel free to contact us. That’s what we’re here for!