WASHING & DETOXING

Proper dreadlock care demands regular washing, ideally 1-3 times per week, utilizing dreadlock-safe products exclusively. It is imperative that your dreadlocks are thoroughly dried before retiring for the night. We strongly advise scheduling your washing routine when you have ample time to ensure your hair dries completely, either naturally throughout the day or with the assistance of a hair dryer.

The use of residue-free products specifically formulated for dreadlocks is paramount in maintaining the health and cleanliness of your locks. At our establishment, we prioritize and recommend the use of Dr. Locs, a brand renowned for its dedication to dreadlock care and its commitment to quality.

Maintaining your dreadlocks with the right products and a consistent washing routine is essential for their longevity and overall health.

DREADLOCK DETOX

A dreadlock detox, or deep cleanse, is a nourishing way to reset your hair by removing buildup, excess oils, and impurities. This process helps your locks stay light, fresh, and healthy while maintaining their natural strength and beauty.

What You’ll Need:

  • Residue-free shampoo (formulated for dreadlocks)

  • Baking soda

  • Apple cider vinegar

  • A large basin or sink

  • Clean towel

  • Dreadlock-safe leave-in conditioner

Steps:

1. Prepare the Basin:

Fill a basin or sink with warm water and mix in baking soda (about ¼ to ½ cup, depending on the size of your basin). Stir until it dissolves.

2. Soak Your Dreadlocks:

Submerge your dreadlocks completely in the basin. Let them soak for 10–15 minutes. As they soak, reach back and gently squeeze your locks to help release trapped buildup and impurities.

3. Add Apple Cider Vinegar:

After soaking, pour apple cider vinegar slowly over your roots, letting it run down into the baking soda water. You’ll notice a gentle fizzing reaction—this is a natural cleanse happening between the two ingredients. Allow your dreadlocks to sit for another 3–5 minutes.

4. Rinse Thoroughly:

Drain the basin and rinse your dreadlocks with clean, warm water until all residue is gone. You can repeat this process once more if your locks need deeper cleaning.

5. Wash with Shampoo:

Apply a generous amount of residue-free dreadlock shampoo, focusing mainly on the scalp and roots. Work the shampoo through your locks, then rinse until the water runs clear.

6. Dry Gently:

Use a towel to press and squeeze out excess water—avoid twisting or wringing your locks to prevent breakage.

7. Moisturize:

Apply a dreadlock-safe leave-in conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair to restore moisture and softness.

8. Air Dry Naturally:

Allow your dreadlocks to air dry completely. Avoid blow-drying, as excess heat can weaken the structure of your locks.

Aftercare & Frequency

After your detox, this is a great time to do your regular maintenance—like palm rolling, separating, or tightening—to keep your locks in shape.

A deep cleanse is best done every few months or as needed. Overdoing it can strip natural oils and lead to dryness. Listen to your hair—it will tell you when it’s time.

For personalized guidance, reach out to a professional loctician who understands your hair’s unique needs.

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS FOR WASHING & DRYING:
DR LOCS RESIDUE FREE PRODUCTS
Large Microfiber Hair Towel
Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer - THIS DRYER DRIES LOCKS FASTER THAN ANY DRYER IVE EVER USED!
DOLLYLOCKS HAIR DRYER BONNET - THIS ATTACHES TO ANY KIND OF DRYER AND DRIES THE LOCKS OUT QUICKLY!

 

SLEEPING

To maintain the moisture and reduce frizz in your locks, especially following maintenance, it is advisable to wrap your locks with a silk or satin wrap at night. If you find it challenging to keep your hair wrapped at night, an alternative solution is to utilize silk or satin pillowcases and bed sheets.

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS FOR SLEEPING:
EXTRA Long Satin Bonnet Sleep Cap
Adjustable Stay on Silk Lined Slouchy Beanie
Satin Bonnet Silk Bonnet
Satin Pillowcase
Silk Lined Sleep Cap

 

AT HOME MAINTENANCE

Palm rolling your locks periodically can aid in maintaining a cylindrical shape and reducing frizz, as well as minimizing loops and bumps during the first 3-6 months after installation. However, it's important to note that palm rolling alone may not completely prevent the formation of loops or bumps. For comprehensive management of these aspects, it is advisable to seek regular dreadlock maintenance from a professional Loctician, especially during the initial stages of your lock journey.

If you are interested in learning how to crochet your own locks at home, it can be a valuable skill. Gentle use of the crochet hook near the roots and along the midlengths can help. While there are numerous online resources available for learning this technique, it's worth noting that it can pose a learning curve for most individuals.

While there are various DIY methods for maintaining your locks at home, it's crucial to understand that at-home maintenance should not replace professional maintenance conducted by a certified Loctician. For those interested in further exploring the use of crochet hooks for lock maintenance, I offer 1:1 or group classes to provide guidance and support. Please feel free to reach out to me via email or text to inquire about self-maintenance classes.

RECOMMENDED TOOLS FOR AT HOME MAINTENANCE:
SIXE .6MM CROCHET HOOK
SIZE .75MM CROCHET HOOK
SIZE .5MM CROCHET HOOK