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A woman has her dreads tied in a ponytail.

Popular Dreadlock Questions & Answers In Bristol

Below, you'll find answers to some of the popular dreadlock questions we receive at Vichi Rymes Dreadlocks & Skincare from our customers through Bristol. If you don’t see your question listed here, simply fill out our online form, and we'll add it along with our response. Explore below for insights on starting and maintaining healthy dreadlocks. Click on any question to find the answer and discover more photos on our gallery page.

  • Q. Are Dreadlocks Good Or Bad For Your Hair?
    A. Yes, dreadlocks can be beneficial for your hair. While dreadlocks require special care and maintenance, when done correctly, they can actually promote healthy hair growth and strengthen your dreadlocks.
  • Q. Where Do Dreadlocks Originate From?
    A. Ancient Egypt is the true birthplace of dreadlocks. Some ancient Egyptian mummies were found to have had dreadlock wigs from 1400 BCE. These mummies are solid evidence that dreadlocks originated in ancient Egypt based on the timeline of other historical events. Even with these historical events, the true origin of dreadlocks is a topic of ongoing debate, primarily because the style holds significance in so many cultures; some of these include the Egyptians, Greeks, and even Hindus.
  • Q. Do People Wash Dreadlocks?
    A. Yes, people with dreadlocks do wash their hair. Keeping dreadlocks clean is essential for the overall health and appearance of the hair and scalp. Contrary to some misconceptions, well-maintained dreadlocks are not dirty or unkempt.
  • Q. What Do I Need To Know Before Getting Dreads?
    A. Before getting dreadlocks, consider several factors to ensure it's the right decision for you: Commitment Hair type Maintenance Lifestyle Washing routine Time needed for dreadlocks to dry completely. Styling limitations Scalp care Professional help Cost Social perception Hair damage Permanent decision
  • Q. What Are The Do's And Don'ts Of Dreadlocks?
    When starting dreadlocks, keep these in mind: Avoid build-up at all costs. Do not use wax on your dreadlocks. Never retwist dry locs. Over-maintenance is damaging. Avoid tight styling. Things not to do with your dreadlocks: Homemade treatments. Bleaching as it will damage your dreads.
  • Q. Are Dreadlocks Recommended For Children?
    A. Yes, dreadlocks are recommended for children.
  • Q. Should I Bleach Or Dye My Dreads? And Should I Do It Before Or After I Lock Up?
    A. You can bleach or dye before or after you dread your hair, it doesn't matter. Before is better, if possible, as it will be easier to do without your hair all locked up. Colouring before will also help to fry the hair a bit, which will help the dreading process. Note: bleaching can damage your hair.
  • Q. How Long Should My Hair Be To Start Dreads?
    A. The ideal hair length for starting to make dreadlocks depends on your hair type. For COARSE and KINKY hair types, you should be able to start dreads if your hair is at least 3 to 7 centimetres (~1 to 4 inches). For LOOSE CURLY hair types, your hair should be a minimum of 7 to 15 centimetres (~3 to 6 inches). Six to eight inches is an ideal hair length for starting to make dreadlocks, as it is long enough and less delicate.
  • Q. Do I Have To Shave My Head To Remove My Dreads?
    A. You do not have to shave your head to get rid of deadlocks. Obviously, the fastest way to remove them is to shave your head, but it's not the only way. Detangling with our IJE oil is an alternative.
  • Q. What Are The Essential Products For Looking After My Dreadlocks?
    A. IJE oil is all you need for looking after dreadlocks. You can buy that from our salon in Bristol or the store on the website.
  • Q. Why Do Dreadlocks Need A Special Shampoo?
    A. To wash dreadlocks you need a shampoo that is residue-free and doesn't contain ingredients such as silicone and un-emulsified oils which work at unknotting your hair and keeping it smooth. Residues can remain in your hair even after rinsing, and this can result in a build-up within the dread, not something you want. I will recommend Monat black shampoo + conditioner.
  • Q. How Long Does It Take For Dreadlocks To Mature?
    A. You know you've reached the mature stage (about 15 to 18 months) when your locs are finally long enough to lie flat or hang down.
  • Q. Can I Swim With Dreads?
    A. Yes, you can swim with dreads. Chlorine won't hurt them and salt water can help them mature. You'll always find some new loose hair after swimming but it can easily be taken care of with a Loose Hair Tool. To protect your hairstyle, you can use swim caps to provide a barrier between your dreads and the water. To keep them completely dry when it’s time to swim, don’t submerge your head underwater. You can also increase the waterproofing ability of swim caps by using two at a time.
  • Q. How Can I Dry My Dreads?
    A. To dry your dreads after washing, you can: Squeeze them with your hands to remove excess water. Proceed with a towel to remove more water. Wrap your dreads in a towel. Palm-roll your dreads. Shake moisture off your dreads. Dry your dreadlocks. It is important to dry your dreads within twelve hours of washing to avoid mould growth. Air drying is the safest way to dry dreads. Blow drying or vigorously towel drying dreads can fray the edges. You can also gently use a microfiber towel.
  • Q. What Are The Essential Products For Looking After My Dreadlocks?
    A. IJE oil is all you need for looking after dreadlocks.

Have More Dreadlock Questions? Ask Away. Call 07880 565534 For Professional Advice On Starting & Maintaining Dreadlocks From Our Loctician.

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