Dreads, also called ‘locks’, are gradually becoming one of the most popular hairstyles for fashion-conscious young ones. They are trendy and you can’t help but notice and admire them. They are worn by many and require proper care to remain trendy.

Keep your scalp clean: Healthy hair starts from the scalp. It is important to wash your scalp regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt, oil and product residues. Use a gentle, residue-free shampoo and avoid using conditioners, as they can loosen the knots of your dreadlocks.

Avoid over-washing: While washing your hair regularly is important to help keep your scalp clean and prevent offensive odours, over-washing should be avoided because it can lead to dryness and breakage of your hair. Washing your dreadlocks every day is not recommended, but aim to wash your hair once a week, depending on your hair type and lifestyle. This provides enough time for your locs and scalp to replenish the oils they require to stay healthy, but not enough time for the buildup to become a problem.

Moisturise your dreadlocks: Moisture should only be introduced to locs when it is necessary, this is only when they start to feel dry or brittle and with the right products.

To keep your hair moisturised, you can use natural oils like coconut oil, which is great for damaged or weak dreads; olive oil; or jojoba oil.

Apply a small amount of oil to your hair and massage it gently. You can also spray moisturising spray on dreads to allow the product to soak in. Avoid using too much oil, as it can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy.

Protect your dreadlocks at night: By keeping your dreadlocks covered while you sleep, you can reduce the chance of breakage, guard against lint, and prevent your hair from gathering dirt from your bed.

You can also prevent your hair from getting tangled and pulled, causing damage to your dreadlocks. Wear a silk or satin scarf or bonnet because it will be more gentle, help to prevent frizzing of your dreads, and also protect your hair while you sleep.

Avoid using hair products: Products like wax, brown gels, and heavy creams should not be used because, over time, they can cause buildup in your hair, making it difficult to maintain your dreadlocks and making the locs heavy, leading to weakness and breakage. If you need to use a product, choose a natural one that will not leave residue in your hair.

Be gentle when styling: When styling your dreadlocks, be gentle with them to avoid pulling or tugging on your hair. Use a soft-bristled brush or your fingers to style your hair, and avoid using combs or brushes that can break your hair.

Scalp massage: Every night before bed, spend a few minutes massaging your scalp. It will not only increase blood flow to promote hair growth, but it will also nourish the scalp by circulating natural oils, encouraging stronger and healthier hair. It also helps prevent flakes and a dry, itchy scalp. However, it is important to note that it should be done gently to avoid breaking the hair.

Regular maintenance: To keep your dreadlocks looking neat and well-maintained, consider getting them retwisted or interlocked every 4-6 weeks. This will help to keep the knots tight and prevent them from unravelling.