Dreadlocks, or dreads, are a very particular popular hairstyle. Maybe you already have them, but you can't compact them quickly and effectively. Backcombing, twisting and rubbing the strands in your hands can help you compact and fix your dreads. To be able to compact them faster and keep them healthy, you should also keep them clean and tidy at all times.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Twist the Dreads
Step 1. Get a metal comb
Metal makes backcombing easier. You can find them in stores that sell beauty products or you can buy one online.
If necessary you can try using a plastic comb, but it will take longer and it will be more difficult to backcomb with that
Step 2. Use a crochet hook
Another option for backcombing hair is to use a crochet hook. Get one with a blunt tip so it isn't too sharp. Buy the smallest you can find on the market.
You can buy crochet at a haberdashery or even online
Step 3. Toss the strands
Use tongs to separate the hair you don't want to backcomb. Hold a section between your fingers so that it is taut, but not too tight. Then, comb your hair towards the head, in the opposite direction of growth, from root to tip. As you comb, your hair should become puffy and lift.
- Try to get as close to the root as you can and work your hair up to the ends, backcombing as much hair as possible.
- If you're using a crochet hook, you can backcomb it by running it back and forth through the strand, always from root to tip.
Step 4. Roll the strands with your fingers
Once you've backcombed the strands, use your fingers to carefully roll them up, from root to tip. Roll the strands 1 or 2 times clockwise. Use this system with all the teased strands to form compact dreads.
You can backcomb and roll the same dread multiple times to compact it
Step 5. Toss and roll the dreads at least once a day
Get in the habit of doing this while watching television, listening to music, or chatting with friends. Do this at least once a day to keep it compact.
Method 2 of 3: Rub Dreads Between Hands
Step 1. Hold the dread at the root in your hands
Pass it from the root into your right hand and hold it steady with your thumb. Then, cover it with your left palm.
Step 2. Rub it in your hands in a circular motion
Place your fingertips at the beginning of the hand underneath and rub the dread with your palm moving it towards the top of the strand. The dread should roll up as you go.
Make sure you hold the dread in place with your thumb as you roll it up. This will help you roll it up so it can compact
Step 3. Move from root to tip
Rub in a circular fashion between your hands and then move a little further down the dread. When you get off, move your thumb as well to keep it stationary. Continue until you get to the tip.
If you notice knots or uneven areas, rub more quickly between your hands. It will help you finish your dreads better
Step 4. Rub the dreads in your hands once a day
To keep them compact, get into the habit of rubbing them in your hands in the morning or evening before going to bed.
It will be difficult to reach the dreads behind the head, ask a friend to roll them for you
Method 3 of 3: Dread Maintenance
Step 1. Wash your dreads every two to three days with a residue-free shampoo
Keeping them clean will help keep them compact. If they are dirty or untidy they will start to smell and become fluffy or bumpy. In order not to dry out your hair, use a shampoo that leaves no residue and without preservatives or additives.
You can buy a suitable shampoo online or at your local store
Step 2. Use the wax or gel in moderation
While hair wax and gel can soften dreads, they can also make them greasy and decrease firmness. Use these products only once a month or a few times a year to touch up them, but not daily because the residues of the product will accumulate in your hair and ruin your dreads.
- Look for a wax or gel suitable for dreads. They usually contain ingredients that help soften and maintain the right firmness.
- Choose gel if you are compacting dreads for the first time.
Step 3. Get in the habit of compacting them
Keep them perfect and compact by getting used to doing it regularly. You can alternate between rolling them or rubbing them between your hands. Do this once a day and they won't get fluffy or loose.
Step 4. Go to a hairdresser
If you are unsure of the best way to maintain your dreads or if you are having trouble doing it yourself, get advice from an experienced hairdresser. Ask them for advice on how to keep them looking perfect, depending on your hair type and lifestyle.
