Dreadlocks are a unique, expressive hairstyle that allows you to embrace your natural texture. But many people worry that starting dreadlocks will mean dramatically cutting their hair short first. The good news is you begin dreadlocking your hair without cutting the length off.
Assess your current length
Before diving into dreadlocking, take stock of your hair in its current state. Make notes of:
It determines how best to section off hair to start locking while minimizing sacrificing length.
Choose a locking method
There are several techniques you use to encourage your hair to mat and lock without requiring a big cut:
The technique you choose will depend on your hair type and texture. Thicker, kinkier hair naturally knots well compared to fine, straight hair. Do your research to decide which technique suits your hair best.
Part hair appropriately
Create parts strategically to make sections for dreadlocks. More hair can be included in each loc, reducing how much gets trimmed off. Follow your natural partings as much as possible. Avoid sharp, unnatural-looking parts. Divide hair into sections equivalent to the dreadlock width you want. The goal is neat parts and uniform sections while maximizing the length retained in each loc. Resist over-sectioning into skinny Locs if your priority is maintaining length.
It’s crucial to encourage locking from roots to ends. If you only backcomb/twist/braid the ends, the roots will remain loose and require cutting off. Apply gentle tension upward from the scalp as you work the locking technique downward. This anchors the loc at the root to prevent loosening over time. If your hair is longer, you choose to lock mid-length first. But seal the root after with an added twist or knot to keep ends from unraveling later on. After encouraging the initial matting and tangling, allow locks to tighten and bud freely without constant manipulation. Your freshly started locks will look imperfect – bumpy, loose, or frizzy. But resist the urge to keep re-twisting or tightening. Natural locking happens from the drying/hardening of oils and shedding of stray hairs around the locs. Let time work its magic. The less you disturb them, the more length you’ll retain.
Trim very minimal ends
Remove only the absolute minimum of straggly ends as dreadlocks form. Never just hack off inches from the ends to even up lengths. Once locked, any hairs you cut are gone for good! Trim errant strands not absorbed into the loc between fingers or using tiny sharp scissors. For the first 6 months, you do not need any trimming at all. Let locks tighten up well first before shaping lengths. Resist blunting tips until mature locs fully form. As your hair keeps growing out at the roots, be extra gentle. Avoid tight styling and harsh pulling. Lightly grip locs near the scalp when washing or styling to prevent stressing delicate new growth with excess tension. Similarly, very tight elastics, bands, or clips halt growth and damage fragile new hairs before they properly lock. Go easy on new growth. Use clips or soft ties instead of tight ponytails or buns. Sleep on a satin pillowcase to minimize friction during the initial locking phase. Be patient and let those locks lengthen!
Maintenance between retwists
To help keep sections neat as Dreadlocks form, avoid buildup between retwists. Rinse locs thoroughly when washing to prevent product accumulation. Separate linked locs gently using your fingers or a blunt comb. Palm roll to smooth out bumps when dry. Sleep with a silk cap or scarf to protect fragile new growth between styling sessions. Taking care of your locks as they mature will preserve their look and length.
When to trim dreadlocks?
Once locks fully tighten and set after 6 months or more, occasional minor trimming help:
Never remove more than 1⁄4 inch at a time. Cutting should not be needed more than 2-4 times per year. Significant length loss should not occur once mature dreadlocks form. Locs that are 5 years old or longer are considered fully developed. Letting them continue to grow out long undisturbed will create a beautiful, flowing effect.
Troubleshooting thinning locks
If certain locs seem to be thinning out at the ends over time:
With some strategic maintenance, you restore thinning locs without losing valuable length. But avoid over-manipulating them excessively.
When to Re-Loc?
In rare cases, some dreadlocks simply refuse to set and tighten adequately. Life events like pregnancy cause sudden texture changes and too much loosening. If you end up with persistent weak, loose sections, it is okay to cut them off and start those locs over. But this would only be 1-2 locs, not your whole head. You twist off the problem loc then re-section and lock that hair using your original or a different method. Re-doing just a portion helps get all your locs back on track.
Embarking on the journey of crafting dreadlocks without forfeiting length is entirely feasible with the right approach and techniques at your disposal. Adopting methods like backcombing, twist and rip, or using extensions allows you to retain the majority of your hair’s length while initiating the locking process. It’s crucial to commence this journey with healthy and well-nourished hair, as it lays the foundation for resilient and long-lasting dreadlocks. Consistency in maintenance routines, gentle handling, and patience are indispensable allies in preserving length and fostering the development of strong, mature dreadlocks. Since each individual’s hair texture, length, and goals are distinct, considering a consultation with a dreadlock professional or a loctician is advisable for personalized advice and guidance. With a commitment to meticulous care and an understanding of the processes involved, you can successfully start your dreadlocks while keeping your cherished length intact, paving the way for a fulfilling and confident dreadlock journey ahead. Happy locking!