Tony Airo

Who said dreads are cultic? That’s not true! It’s a hairstyle just like any other and just because it is your preferred choice does not mean you cannot be professional.

I have noticed that a lot of clients are unsure about whether to spot dreads because of the strictures at work. Employers, please let people do their hair as they please.

To keep them smelling fresh, dreads must be washed regularly.

This is how to do it effectively:

Water your scalp and hair: It does not matter what product you use to twist your hair, only ensure your hair and scalp are thoroughly washed, whether your dreads are long or short.

Dilute your Shampoo: It will help the shampoo penetrate evenly on the scalp and hair. Since most shampoos are thick, they clean hair in patches, hence the need to thin them. Alternatively, ask your stylist to put the shampoo in a spray bottle, dilute and spray evenly on the hair.

Get out as much water as possible: It is very important not to have water left on your dreads especially if you do hair at home without getting into a dryer. This is the point where dreads start smelling because they are dump.

No conditioners (not even leave-in varieties): Conditioners untangle the hair but because with dreads you are twisting the hair, it is worse on people beginning to grow dreads or people with curly hair. But if your dreads are locked, you may treat the scalp only.

Dry well: Dreads must be dried well in a dryer or using a blow dryer. If you have to do them at home, do them in the morning so that by the time you retire to bed, they will have dried. It is unhealthy to sleep with your hair or scalp wet. The thicker the product you use, the longer it takes to dry.

Revisit your stylist: Ensure you revisit your stylist after every 21 days to have a fresh and presentable look.

Facts and Myths

Facts:

•Dreads should be washed and refreshed.

•When you start growing dreads they require a lot of maintenance because every time you wash them, they open up.

Myths:

•When you wash your dreads they don’t grow.

•If you wash your hair with other shampoos that are not specifically created for dreadlocks, they will open up.