dreadlock journey white guy

This story is over 5 years old.

What i learned as a white dude with dreadlocks, one email. one story. every week. sign up for the vice newsletter..

By signing up, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy & to receive electronic communications from Vice Media Group, which may include marketing promotions, advertisements and sponsored content.

CLICK HERE TO TAKE LOC ASSESSMENT

I hope you enjoy this blog

If you need Lion Locs to help with your locs, click here .

Loc Stages By Month: A Complete Timeline

Dreadlocks , often abbreviated as locs, can be a beautiful and unique hairstyle when worn correctly. There are many ways to wear dreadlocks , and each person's style is unique. This guide will show you the four main stages of hair growth for dreadlocks based on the month in which they are started. Each stage has its unique look and requires different care techniques. So whether you're just starting your dreadlock journey or rocking them for years, this guide will help you understand where your locs are and how to care for them accordingly. Let's get started!

Monthly Loc Stages

If you're new to locs , you might wonder how they change and develop over time. In this blog post, we'll break down the different stages of locs by month so you know what to expect as your locs grow and mature. Keep reading to learn more! 

So, you've decided to take the plunge and start your loc journey! Here's a look at what you can expect during your first month of locs.

The first few weeks after installing your locs will be spent getting used to your new hairstyle. Your scalp may be tender, and you'll probably have to adjust to not being able to see your whole face in the mirror! It would be best if you were careful not to handle them too much, as this can cause them to unravel. Be sure to moisturize your locs regularly, as they will be prone to drying out during this stage.

You'll also notice that your locs are growing fast during this time! This is because when your hair is in its early stages of forming, the roots hold on tighter than they will once the locs fully mature. This means that your locs will be extra strong and resilient during this time, so don't be afraid to experiment with different styles.

One thing to keep in mind during month one is that your locs will require a bit more care and attention than they will later on. This is because they are still adjusting to their new environment and are more susceptible to things like drying out or getting tangled. Be sure to moisturize regularly and use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle any knots that may form.

Overall, month one is a time of adjustment—both for you and your new locs! There's a lot of trial and error involved, but it's all part of the fun. Just remember to be patient and take good care of your locs , and you'll be well on your way to healthy, happy hair.

Related Link: The Best Loc Styles For Ladies

Congratulations on making it to the second month of your loc journey ! Your locs are starting to mature and take shape, but they require special care and attention. Taking care of your locs in the second month is about maintaining moisture levels, preventing buildup, and retwisting as needed.

Wash Your Locs Regularly

It's important to wash your locs regularly, especially in the early stages when they are prone to buildup. You should aim to wash your locs at least once a week, using a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Be sure to rinse your locs thoroughly after washing to remove all traces of shampoo and conditioner.

Would you like to learn more about dreadlocks? Check out our blog  for more styling tips, tricks and more.

Deep Condition Your Locs

Deep conditioning of your locs is also important in the second month. This will help keep them hydrated and prevent them from drying out. You can deep condition your locs at home by applying a deep conditioner to your locs and covering them with a shower cap for 30 minutes.

Retwist Your Locs as Needed

As your locs continue to grow, you may find that they need to be retwisted more frequently. Retwisting helps keep your locs neat and tidy, and it also helps them maintain their shape. You should aim to retwist your locs every two weeks or so. If you find that your locs are starting to unravel, you can retwist them sooner.

Three Months

By three months, your locs will be fully matured. They will be thicker and more robust than they were at the previous stage. You can experiment with different styles at this stage, but be sure not to put too much strain on your locs. continue to moisturize regularly to keep them healthy and hydrated. 

Related Link: The Best 2 Strand Twist Styles for Locs

Six Months and Beyond 

Stage 1: The Growing Pains Stage (6-9 months)

This is the stage where your locs will start to thicken and mature. You may find that your locs are more prone to tangles and knots during this stage, so be sure to use a gentle, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner when washing your hair. Deep conditioning treatments will become your new best friend!

Stage Two: The Settling In Stage (9-12 months)

By now, your locs should be fully settled and starting to look their best. If you haven't already, this is a great time to experiment with different styles and see what you like best. Whether you opt for a sleek updo or a playful bowtie style, rock your locs with confidence!

Stage Three: The Maintenance Stage (12+ months)

Once your locs have reached the 12-month mark, they'll require much less maintenance than they did in the early stages. That said, it's still important to keep up with regular trims and touch-ups to keep your locs looking their best. Deep conditioning treatments can also be done every few weeks to keep your hair healthy and hydrated.

Interested in further loc hair care products? Check out our products page for detailed descriptions on the best loc care products. 

Preparing your mind for Dreadlocks

• If your dreads are on track
• what to expect at this point in their development
• what changes are needed in your maintenance at their current stage
• even some extra tips for the techniques you'll be using at that time

Dreading success and the Dread Pact

Dread Resolutions

• Get in Shape! Take up yoga, weightlifting or rock climbing.
• Learn a language or get active with a great cause like the FairTax.
• Go Raw! Treat your body to a raw diet, the benefits are huge.
• Quit Smoking! Never Smoke another cigarette as a DreadHead!

Dreadlock Maintenance: Step by Step Guide

There’s an idea floating around that dreadlocks are virtually maintenance-free. This couldn’t be further from the truth — at least in the beginning of your dread journey. Mature dreads are much easier to care for but baby and teenage dreads require some extra lovin’.

When I first got dreads, I was given certain recommendations for weekly maintenance but several times I got lazy and left my hair alone. 

I wish I hadn’t done that but you live and you learn, right? After ten months of virtually no continuous maintenance, my hair was crying for some help. 

The only thing I did to my hair during the first 10 months was to wash it. I tried washing it weekly but sometimes I let it go to two weeks. Washing your hair is kind of a hassle when you’re not used to it being wet all day, so scheduling washes also took some adjustment.

Up until that point, my dreads were locking up and shrinking (as expected) but I had loops and loose hair everywhere. My scalp was very itchy for a good portion of the time, but the first three months were the absolute worst. 

In moments of desperate need, I searched the web for hair advice and got many helpful tips that developed into my own daily maintenance routine. 

After treating my hair for a month, I noticed major improvements in my scalp. Over the course of the last couple of months, I have noticed a huge difference in the appearance and texture of my locs. They’re much softer, they smell fresh, and they look clean.

My daily dread maintenance routine

These are the steps I take to take care of my locs. 

1. Drink a large glass of water upon waking up

Water plays a huge role in keeping your scalp hydrated (and the rest of your body). Your skin will be the first to tell you if you’re dehydrated and an itchy scalp is no exception. I notice the effects on my head within hours if I am or I’m not drinking enough water. If you find it difficult to drink 16 oz of plain water, add a little bit of lemon juice and drink it with a straw (for some reason it makes it easier to chug). Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day too!

2. Unwrap and give your locs a shake

The second thing I do in the morning is to remove the wrap (we’ll get to the wrapping part later) and shake my head upside down. Run your fingers through your locs as if you were brushing them with your hands. This will help to keep them separated at the root, especially the ones around the back of the head that tend to mingle and want to buddy up.

3. Moisturize your locs

The third thing I’ll do is spritz my hair with a moisturizing spray. You can make your own or buy one online. If you want to try some of my favorite DIY sprays you can find 6 amazing recipes here . Spray it all over your dreads — dampen your hair lightly but don’t overdo it! After spraying, run your fingers through your hair again in a brush-like motion. Squeeze them if you’ve sprayed too much. Hydrate your hair a few times a day if you feel it’s necessary.

4. Let them be free

Ideally, you want to let your dreads hang loose. If you style your dreads too often (or too tight) it can cause thinning at the roots. If you’re able to let them be free, you’re better off that way. If you have to pull them away from your face, you can wear a large elastic headband around your face or alternatively, use the headband as a loose tie and lightly tie your hair in a ponytail or bun. The less you mess with them, the better.

5. Protect your dreads throughout the day

Be conscious of your daily activities and be mindful of all the particles flying around in the air. If you’re going to be cooking, cleaning the house, or in a dusty environment, use a head wrap to prevent nasty things from getting stuck in your hair.

6. Palm roll

This is one of my least favorite things to do but it might help the appearance of messy dreads. Whenever you have free time (whether you’re sitting in traffic or watching TV), palm roll the loops in your hair. I don’t make it a religious habit or priority but it does help to keep them neater over time and shapes the hairs at the root to continue dreading properly.

7. Nourish your scalp

About an hour before I go to sleep, I apply an oil-based blend to my scalp and massage it in gently with my fingers. I like to use a few drops of grapeseed oil mixed with essential oils (usually tea tree) because it leaves my head smelling fresh and feeling a lot less greasy than coconut oil. Allow the oils to absorb well. Your scalp might enjoy a different blend of oils than mine. If you’re interested, you can check out my guides to the best carrier oils and essential oils for dreads.

8. Cover your hair at night

Once the oils have had a chance to infuse my scalp, I put my nightcap on. This cap is important for keeping your hair from attracting lint from your bedsheets, as well as preventing breakage that may occur from friction with the pillow. This is the cap I use. People say I look like a grandma wearing it but beauty comes at a price, so I’ll accept the compliment. 😉 If the thought of a granny cap alone embarrasses you, your next best option is a satin pillowcase . I highly recommend either of those choices!

My weekly dread maintenance routine

Along with my everyday hair routine, I wash my hair once a week. It’s important to wash your hair in the morning to give it enough time to dry throughout the day. Leaving your hair wet for too long can cause mold to grow, and no one wants that!

1. Shampoo your scalp

When I first started washing my dreads, I would wash everything: the scalp, the locs, the ends…all of it! It took me a long time to realize that this was unnecessary. What needs to be washed every week is the roots of your hair because that’s where the oils are being produced. Your hair needs to be clean to lock properly so make sure you’re washing it once a week or once every two weeks tops. Use residue-free or clarifying shampoo only so that no residues accumulate inside your locs.

2. Wrap your hair in a microfiber towel

Microfiber towels are amazing for absorbing large amounts of water and not leaving any lint or cotton pieces in your hair (like a regular towel would). Any microfiber towel will do but this one has worked great for me. I usually leave my hair wrapped for an hour or so.

3. Palm roll your dreads

I find that it’s easier to shape my locs when they’re wet. I usually use this opportunity to palm roll all of my dreads which also helps squeeze some of the remaining water that’s being held hostage in there.

4. Let your hair dry

At this point, your locs will still be damp so you can either let them air dry or you can speed up the process with a hairdryer. Either way, make sure you’re not styling them because that will cause your hair to dry unevenly and might cause problems later on if portions of your hair don’t dry completely. The thicker your dreads are, the longer they’ll take to dry of course.

5. Blow dry your hair before going to sleep

Last but not least, if your hair is still slightly damp before going to bed, make sure you blow dry it (in the lowest setting for better hair protection) until you feel it has dried out completely. If your hair is wet for too long, the dreads can grow mold inside of them and dread rot can occur. This means you might have to go through the painful process of getting the mold out, or take the easier solution and cut them off. Make sure that never happens by drying them out properly in the first place. 🙂

6. Wash headbands and silk bonnets

I like to change my headbands and sleeping caps the same day I wash my hair. I use the same one for the entire week and change it after my next wash (a week later). This helps to keep the dirt from old headbands/bonnets from getting into the clean dreads.

My monthly dread maintenance routine

1. apple cider vinegar rinse.

On top of my daily and weekly routine, once a month I follow my hair washing routine with an apple cider vinegar rinse. I mix 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 8 ounces of water in an old shampoo container. After shampooing and rinsing my scalp, I pour the ACV mixture all over my scalp and let it absorb for five minutes. [Apple cider vinegar neutralizes the pH balance of the scalp and will help to minimize the itchiness.] Once the five minutes are up, rinse the ACV completely off. It won’t hurt you to leave it on, but if your scalp gets wet, you will immediately regret it. There’s nothing like the tangy smell of vinegar during a workout! (I hope you got the sarcasm in that one.)

2. Sea salt spray

Once in a blue moon, I’ll spray my hair with sea salt to encourage them to lock up (especially the loose parts). This spray will help tighten and knot your locs quicker but is extremely drying to your locs. If you spray it on a couple of hours before you wash your hair, you will get the locking benefits without the risk of too much damage. Make sure you’re not spraying this on your scalp since the high concentration of salt will dry out your scalp too and can cause more itchiness and dandruff. Try this easy recipe !

If you’re one of the rebels that want to spray it on after washing your hair or at random times throughout the week, make sure you add some essential oils to the mix to give your hair some moisture (or follow up with a moisturizing spray). I don’t recommend this by the way.

My bi-annual dread maintenance routine

Dreadlock deep cleanse.

Every six months I do a deep cleanse for my hair. Some people will do it every 3 months (four times a year) but unless your hair is super dirty, I wouldn’t do it more than twice a year. Overdoing it can loosen up your locs. 

A deep cleanse helps to remove anything that has gotten stuck in your dreads over time, such as dirt. You’ll start with a clean bucket of water and essential oils and end up with a bucket of brown water. I was surprised how dirty my hair was the first time I did it.

Read my complete guide on how to deep clean your dreadlocks here!

A couple of dreadlock maintenance tips

1. don’t excessively re-twist your hair.

I made this mistake at the beginning of my loc journey because I was obsessed with taming the frizz at the roots. Rolling your hair (gently) at the roots will help to maintain them. You should be re-twisting them every several months, not every other night…oops, another lesson learned!

2. Don’t style your locs too often or too tight

Even though your hair can look funky in the first year (or first three years even), don’t tie it every day. When you have to tame it, for work reasons or whatever, don’t style it too tight. Tight styling can cause your dreads to thin out. Your hair will look amazing in due time, it’s just a matter of waiting the process out . 

These steps might feel tedious at first but you will love the results of sticking to this routine. Don’t be misinformed by the idea that dreadlocks are maintenance-free. Even free-form dreads deserved some love and attention!

After making these adjustments, my dreads are so grateful to finally receive the proper nourishment and TLC they had been craving for so long. 

I hope these tips are helpful to you! 

Do you have any maintenance tips that I didn’t mention? Let me know in the comments!

You may also like

Bugs in Dreads: Prevention Tips & What To Do if You Have Them

Dreads & Sweat: How to Keep Your Locs Fresh

How to Moisturize Your Scalp With Dreads

14 comments

Hi, I know someone with 3b curly hair texture like mine who conditions his locs (for about 4 years now) and they look amazing. However my loctician advised me not to put any conditioners or oils in the locs. Is it ever a good idea to apply rinse out/leave in conditioner to locs? What about deep conditioning? I will be grateful for your help.

I am going into month 2/3 this article was very helpful. Thank you so much for sharing.

I couldn’t be more thankful for your post. Printscreened everything and putting the weekly, monthly and annual routines on my calendar (because i can be quite forgetful at times lol) I now have 4 dreads in my neck, two 2yr olds behind my ears and two baby dreads in between (born last week). I’m thinking of doing another row of dreads above those and letting them grow long, and when they are long enough i wanna do the rest of my hair as to avoid looking all crazy (the society i currently live in doesn’t accept that and i wanna keep the peace).

I haven’t combed my hair in 2 years, i always massage some Pétrole Hahn on my scalp after washing and then brush through with my fingers (the tonic also detangles).. Since i started doing that my hair grew noticeably much faster, healthier and stronger. So i’m definitely going to keep using that for my dread roots. Since 3 months ago i also do daily scalp massages, not only does it activate my hairfollicles for thinker and stronger hair, it is also extremely relaxing, stress is alsk bad for your hair. Your dreads look amazing and one could see that you take good care of them. Either way BIG THANKS to you for the dreadlock care info, i wish i could give you a hug. United we stand ❤️ (btw my mom is also called Nadia) 😊😊

Hiii Naomi! Aww thank you for your kind message! I’m happy to hear that it helped 🙂 I’m excited for you and your loc journey, I would love to hear more about it! Sending you a virtual hug back!! (aaww <3 can you believe it.. my mom's middle name is Naomi! 🙂 )

Hi! I’m about two months in and I’m trying to keep my dreads from joining together at the root. I don’t want to cut them apart…any suggestions!? Thanks 🙂

I am starting my dread journey on my 40th birthday yesterday. Any advice or tips would be great

Hi Jonathan! Happy birthday! You’ll find a lot of tips and helpful info throughout this site. Click here and then choose either “I want locs” or “I have locs” to help navigate through the content on this website. If you have any specific questions, you can reach out to me anytime! Best, Nadia

Hi I am starting today. Wish me. Blessing

Hi Lois, Yay, that’s awesome!! Welcome to the dreadlock tribe 😉 Wishing you all the best on your journey. Keep me posted on how it goes.

You’re so right be kind to the locs im going into’my 70s now and had mine for about 20yrs I also trim to the shoulders and tie them up when I go out its easier for me- I do believe in a moisturizing spritz to the scalp for a nice smell and palm roll them while watching tv

Hi Maria, 20 years loc’d! That is sooo amazing! You’re an inspiration to us all!! <3

I’ll take your advice, given the experience behind your words.

Hi! Not a tip, but a question =) how do you maintain your locks? If not crocheting then how? When the hair grows you must do something about those grown, straight hair, right? To get them locked =) so what you do? Ive been crocheting them and now im confused ‘=D

I used to maintain my roots all the time, but I stopped for a couple of reasons. For one, it’s really time consuming and I got lazy lol but more importantly, I realized I was putting too much pressure on my scalp. Constant pulling and tugging of the hair can cause hair loss in the future. Occasional maintenance is okay, but overdoing it not recommended.

I definitely have loose hairs throughout my locs, but I’ve learned to embrace them. 😉 Some of them have free-formed into their own baby locs. I’ve tried the twist & rip method on some loose strands and they kept unraveling.. so I stopped fighting it. 🙂

My maintenance routine focuses on keeping my hair moisturized, washing my locs once a week, and separating the roots as soon as they start to intermingle. Other than that, sometimes I will palm roll or bring in loose hairs (very gently) with a crochet needle. Very light maintenance.

I hope that was helpful. Let me know if you have any more questions!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

How to Grow Dreadlocks

Dreadlock Techniques for White People

Anyone can wear dreadlocks nowadays. However, it was pretty unusual to see a white person rocking dreadlocks back in the day. It is not just because wearing dreadlocks is a cultural thing that connects to …

Anyone can wear dreadlocks nowadays. However, it was pretty unusual to see a white person rocking dreadlocks back in the day. It is not just because wearing dreadlocks is a cultural thing that connects to African-Americans—it is because white Caucasian hair has a different texture that doesn’t naturally lock together. And even if they did naturally form into locs, it would take a while—like years in the making.

Unlike curly hair that seems to lock pretty quickly, straight hair that you often see on white people doesn’t work the same. With that being said, it isn’t impossible for a white person to wear dreads. Many white people wear dreads nowadays, thanks to the different techniques and processes that you will learn in this article.

So whether you are white or just have straight hair that seems impossible to turn into locs—you came to the right place.

Is it different to dread white hair vs. black?

White and black people usually have different hair textures and characteristics, making starting dreadlocks quite different if you are black or white. Some white people can be born with curls, but a majority of them have straight hair. If that is the case, starting dreadlocks for white people may take more time than black people with a sponge-like hair texture and thicker curls.

However, as we mentioned above, it isn’t impossible for white people to wear dreadlocks, no matter your hair type. The only difference is it will take longer to mature, and you might need to apply more hair products to dry your hair a little.

Aside from the long wait for your dreadlocks to mature, starting dreadlocks on people with white hair might have to try different techniques. People with curly and thicker hair don’t have to go through a long process—since they are born with naturally locking curls that lock together just by neglecting them.

Black people can still try doing dreadlock techniques, especially if they want clean and uniform locks, but the process is a lot easier for people with thicker curls.

How long should your hair be to start dreads?

The length of your hair before starting dreads depends on the technique you use. If you want your locs to form naturally, length does not matter. All you need to do is let your hair be. You can still wash it, but make sure you do not comb or brush it so it can start to loc as it grows out.

However, with methods like backcombing, twist and rip, and the crochet method—your hair should at least be 5 inches long. However, the length of your hair to start dreads also depend on the type of hair you are born with.

Different hair types

Here is a list of the most common types of hair and how long should they be before you start dreadlocks:

• Loose curly

Loose curly hair should be at least 3 to 6 inches long so that it can easily take form in a shape of a dreadlock strand.

• Straight hair

Having straight and thin hair is common amongst white people. If your hair is straight and oily, you should wait until your hair is at least 6 to 8 inches before starting your locs using the different methods. Some people say that 4 inches are enough. However, it is best to wait for a little while to make sure your locs are locked up tight.

• Coarse hair

If you have coarse or kinky hair, you can start dreads when it reaches at least 1 to 4 inches. This hair type is the easiest option for getting dreadlocks because they are thick enough to form dreads when they are shorter. Unfortunately, only a few white people are blessed with kinky hair.

Can you dread your own, or should you go to a salon?

You can dread your own hair if you learn the techniques. However, it would be a lot easier if you went to a salon. They know the different methods and have the right products for starting dreadlocks. Plus, they can work their magic and turn even the straightest and thinnest of hair into stylish dreadlocks. The only downside of going to the salon is the price.

You can save a lot more if you do it yourself with the help of a couple of friends. However, you need to make sure you have the patience and practice the different techniques and follow the tips that we will show you in this article.

How much does it cost to go to a salon?

The cost of getting dreadlocks depends on which salon you go to. Some salons charge by the hour, and some have a fixed rate. It also depends on your hair type, whether you want extensions or not, and how long your hair is. With that in mind, getting dreadlocks at a salon can cost anywhere between $200 to $1000.

What’s the process for starting dreads on white hair?

White people with straight hair have several technique choices to start dreadlocks. Depending on the outcome you want, some options work best, how long you are willing to wait for it to mature, and the uniformity. Here are the 5 different stages to dreadlock maturity:

• The starter stage

The first stage is the starter stage. During this time, the partitions will be a little obvious, and they can be a little fragile. So ensure that you wash your hair delicately during the starter stage. It usually lasts 3 months for people with curly or kinky hair. However, the starter stage can last up to 1 year if you have straight, thin hair.

• The budding phase

After a couple of months, you will notice some changes. The hair will start to knot into parts, and some parts will get thicker. However, if you notice some loose parts, that is completely normal since you are still a long way from getting dreadlock maturity. In this stage, the hair from the roots will look a little messy and have frizz all over. Some people hate this stage, but you have to get through it to enjoy mature and good-looking locs.

• The messy stage

If the budding stage was too hot to handle, the messy rebellious phase would only get more chaotic. Your dreadlocks will go all over the place before they settle in, but don’t worry. This stage will only last a few months.

• Maturity stage

At this point in your dread journey during the 12 th to 18 th month— your dread locs will start to tame, look good, and feel more robust than in the first stages. You can wash your hair and wave it around without getting tangled. At this stage, they will look like the dreadlocks you always wanted.

• The last stage

The last phase may be as delicate as the first stage. At this point, the side effects of poor maintenance will show up, and too much stress on the roots can result in breakage, thinning, and more. To avoid annoying side effects that can affect the look and your dreadlock health, make sure you maintain moderate tightness, use dreadlock-friendly products, and avoid too much stress.

How long will it take?

If you decide to get dreadlocks at a salon, the process will be quicker than doing it yourself. The process of starting dreadlocks should take at least 4 to 8 hours—depending on hair length and type. However, the maturity of dreadlocks will take at least 4 to 12 months.

Products needed

Using too much product on your dreads is not a good idea. However, some products can help you maintain your dreads for the better. The best products for starting dreadlocks are:

• Dreadlock-friendly shampoo

What we mean by dreadlock-friendly shampoo are products that do not leave too much residue. They can be accumulated in the locs, which can cause bad smell and dryness. Tea Tree Shampoo from Trader Joe’s is an excellent choice. And adding essential oils to the mix would also make a great way to deep clean the dreads from the inside out.

• Moisturizing spray

To prevent your dreadlocks from getting dry due to extreme weather conditions and other outdoor elements, using moisturizing hair spray is your best bet. Lack of moisture can cause stress, breakage, and thinning in locs—so make sure you use moisturizing spray daily.

• Silk or satin nightcap

Using a nightcap made out of silk or satin is an excellent way to maintain dreads when sleeping or when it is too hot outside.

• Essential Oils and Natural Oils

Using natural essential oils, such as coconut, olive, and castor oil, is an excellent way to maintain moisture without using harsh products. However, some essential oils like tea tree needs to be diluted with carrier oils like grapeseed oil or avocado oil to protect your scalp.

There are different processes to start locs if you have straight hair. And you can choose one type of process depending on your preference. Some options can be done professionally, but there are options that you can do by yourself. No matter what deadlocking process you use, the primary goal is to part your hair and separate them to form locs.

Dreadlock techniques for white people and people with straight hair

Here are different approaches to start locs for white people and people with straight hair:

This method is also known as the neglect method. All you need to do is wash your hair and leave it alone for a while. It is also called forming natural dreadlocks, which is the most authentic way to get dreads.

The advantage of using the freeform technique is that it is free and doesn’t take that much effort to maintain. However, it does take a while to lock together, and you cannot choose the sizes of the locs.

Twist and rip

This method is perhaps the best option for people with long and straight hair. Just take a section of the hair you want to lock together, twist it a couple of times, and separate the tips by pulling them apart and forming a knot. You should start from the roots and repeat the process until you reach the ends.

It is an excellent method to do yourself, and you don’t need any tools other than your hands. It doesn’t cause too much damage to your hair, and you have complete control over the thickness and number of locs. However, it only works best if you have long hair.

Crochet Method

The crochet method is an excellent choice for all hair types. Plus, it is the fastest way to get mature-looking dreadlocks, even if you have straight hair. You will need to part your hair with rubber bands and use a crochet needle to pass through and pull to create knots.

This option is very time-consuming and might take up to 8 hours, depending on hair type and length. Plus, this method at a salon can cost a lot.

Backcombing method

This method is another time-consuming method. You are basically combing your hair in reverse to make it easier to lock, especially if you have shorter hair. However, some disadvantages include pain on the scalp, itchiness, and too much frizz.

Are dreadlocks hard to maintain?

Dreadlocks are pretty challenging to maintain. However, some people neglect their hair using the freeform technique, meaning they don’t need to maintain them at all. But if you want clean-looking dreads, you will have to commit to maintenance if you want to keep them looking good.

How do you make your dreads lock faster?

Some of the ways to make dreads lock faster are twisting and rolling them using your palm , using the crochet method, and using products. However, products like bee’s wax and sea salt spray can leave a residue that causes mold buildup and may cause dryness. If you are going to use products, make sure you wash, rinse, and dry—or use moisturizer.

Can You Get Dreadlocks Done at a Salon or Hair Stylist?

Everything you need to know about instant locs.

LEARN HOW TO FIND YOUR CURL PATTERN WITH PICTURES

Learn How to Do Dreadlocks for White Hair: DIY Step-by-Step

With each passing year, dreadlocks become more mainstream. People from all walks of life are locking their hair, including Caucasians.

The problem white people face is that creating dreadlocks on white hair (i.e., usually straight hair) takes specialized techniques, some of which are different from those used to cultivate dreads on black people’s hair (usually kinky, curly, or wavy hair).

If you want to get dreads on your white hair, this article is for you. We’ll tell you everything you need to know about starting your loc journey with caucasian natural hair.

Table of Contents

• 1.1 Twist and Rip Method
• 1.2 Backcombing Straight Hair
• 1.3 Crochet Locs
• 1.4 Freeform Locs
• 1.5 Related Articles

How to Do Dreadlocks for White Hair

After deciding that you want to wear dreads, you need to determine how you’re going to start them. You’ve got several starter loc options to consider, and each one has its nuances, benefits, and negatives.

Let’s get into them below:

Twist and Rip Method

One of the most common ways to start dreads on white hair is to do the old twist and rip. It requires you to part out a section of hair, twist it a few times in one direction, then separate the ends in two, and pull each half outward until you feel resistance.

You’ll repeat this until a loc begins to form. This motion encourages your hair to tangle in a way that creates a reasonably firm dread foundation.

To make the locs more cylindrical, you can smooth them by rubbing them between your palms. 

If you’re more of a visual learner, watch this video on the twist and rip method . Starter locs formed using the twist and rip method last pretty well and will continue to lock naturally over months.

But the main issue people have with the twist and rip method is that the resulting locs tend to unravel from time to time. This can be a bit annoying, but all you’ll need to do to fix it is repeat the twist and rip method.

Is the Twist and Rip Method for You?

The twist and rip method is not for everyone, but it could be a good fit for you if you: 

• Prefer to control the size and number of locs you end up with. 
• Are okay with the starter loc process taking a couple of hours. 
• Don’t mind your hair looking unruly for a few months. The twist and rip method results in extreme frizz that only calms down after the locs have matured a bit.

If you decide to go with this method, be sure not to pull your hair too tight . Doing so can cause severe scalp pain and injury.

Backcombing Straight Hair

Backcombing is another method that white people use to start dreadlocks. It forces the hairs into a knotted formation and jumpstarts the locking process.

If you’ve ever backcombed your hair, you’re a step ahead of the rest. Here’s how to do it step by step: 

• Part out a section of hair. Backcombing works best for medium to large locs. 
• Use a teasing comb to knot up the section of hair. Start backcombing at the roots and roll the loc between your palms or fingers to shape it a bit. Then continue teasing until you get to your ends. 
• Palm roll the lock once more to solidify its structure and then move on to the next section. 

Watch this backcombing demonstration to see for yourself how it’s done.

When you create the structure of locs using a teasing comb, your locs may not take much longer to mature. On average, backcombed locs only take 6 months to a year to lock fully.

Are Backcombed Locs for You?

Backcombed locs are a straightforward way to start dreads, as they require few tools and a low level of skill. This starter loc method may be for you if you: 

• Want to minimize unraveling as your locs mature. Backcombed dreads don’t unravel as much as locs started via other methods. 
• Are looking for an easy starter loc installation process. Anyone can backcomb their hair. Though, you may need someone to help you backcomb the locs at the back of your head. 

Crochet Locs

For anyone who wants instant locs on Caucasian hair, crochet locs are a great option to consider. The method entails using a tiny crochet hook to manually create knots in your hair.

The most common crochet hook size used for this method is the 0.5mm size . Crocheted locs are firm and very rarely unravel, which is the main appeal of this locking method. 

Here’s how to crochet your locs: 

• Part out a section of hair with a comb. 
• Begin by twisting the base of the section a few times. 
• Hold the section of hair between your thumb and index finger. 
• Starting about an inch away from the base, stick the crochet hook into the section horizontally and pull it back out. Repeat several times to knot up the hair.  
• Twist the section again a couple of times and insert the crochet hook in a different spot. Pull it back out and repeat. 
• Once it appears that the base of the section is tangling up, insert the crochet hook into the section again, but this time, angle it slightly downward toward the ends of the section and continue crocheting. 
• When you get to the ends, fold the last inch of hair on top of the loc and crochet once more to fuse the ends to the rest of the dread. The end of the loc should look blunted. 

Check out this demo on installing crochet locs on straight hair . 

Note: Be very careful while crocheting your hair – the crochet hook can pierce your finger. 

This method may be for you if you: 

• Don’t want to go through the whole loc maturation process. 
• Are up for a long installation time. It can take several hours or even an entire day to complete a full head of crochet locs. And if your hair is long, it can take several days. 
• Don’t mind that the locs won’t lay flat initially. It will take some time for them to calm down. 
• Have the money to get them done professionally or the patience to do them yourself. 

Freeform Locs

If you’re someone who’s looking for an entirely low-maintenance loc journey, freeform locs will be your jam. These locs are created simply by neglecting to comb or brush your hair.

You’ll still wash your hair and scalp (use a residue-free shampoo), but you won’t ever detangle again. Eventually, your strands will begin to tangle and form locs.

The thing that people love or hate about freeform locs is that you never know how your locs will look when you start them using this method. Your strands will tangle however they see fit.

You could end up with tiny locs around the perimeter and a few thick ones in your crown, or even three super-sized locs. The locs may have a non-uniform shape, where the thickness of a given loc varies from root to tip.

Some locs may join near the roots but not at the ends. So, be prepared for that if you want to start your locs the freeform way.

Freeform locs work for all hair types and can take anywhere from 1 to 2 years to lock up.

Are Freeform Locs for You?

Now that you know what freeform locs entail , let’s get into whether this starter loc method would be a good fit for you. Freeform locs are great for people who: 

• Would rather skip expensive loc maintenance sessions. 
• Don’t mind seeing their hair all frizzy and unkempt for at least 12 months. 
• Work for a company that doesn’t enforce strict hair requirements. 
• Don’t have a preference for loc size or number. 

Related Articles

• Stages of Starter Locs
• History and Meaning of Dreadlocks
• Palm Rolled vs Interlocked Dreads
• How Long Does It Take to Grow Dreads From Short Hair

There you have it, several ways to get dreadlocks on white hair. Whether you’re planning to wear your hair short or long, we’re confident that one of the methods listed above will give you the beautiful dreadlocks you’ve been wanting to create. We wish you the best with your new loc journey! 

Kenneth Byrd , with a BS in Accounting and Management Information Systems and an MBA from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, has over 15 years of experience and is a recognized authority in hair care. Co-founder of Curl Centric® and Natural Hair Box, Kenneth has dedicated himself to promoting ethical and scientifically-backed hair care practices. Rigorous editorial guidelines , industry recognitions, and features in numerous media outlets evidence his expertise. Kenneth’s commitment to transparency, quality, and empowerment has positioned him as a trusted voice in the field, empowering readers to confidently embrace their natural beauty.

Similar Posts

Two Block Haircut Styles: 15 Popular Asian Korean Hairstyles

What Are Bottleneck Bangs? How to Cut and Style DIY Bangs

What Is Wolf Cut Hair? How to Style a Wolf Cut and Much More

Do Dreads Smell? How to Stop Dreadlocks From Smelling

Popular Side Part Tribal Braids With Curls, Color, and More

How to Get Congo Dreads: Freeform, Crochet, Interlock, and More

• AI Generator

6,283 White Guy Dreadlocks Stock Photos & High-Res Pictures

Browse 6,283 white guy dreadlocks photos and images available, or start a new search to explore more photos and images..