Best Hair Color for Dreadlocks
There was a time when I thought that my natural hair couldn’t be any more different from what it currently is. As someone who had been wearing weaves and forced straightening treatments, this decision to go free made quite an impact on me personally because of the cultural implications involved with switching paths like this one can have for both Black women in America as well other races around the world trying their best not just grow out embrace our textures but also thrive within them too.
Loc’ing your hair refers to the process of dread locking or matting your hair by foregoing combing or using any devices such as brushes. This results in tangling the hair to create rope-like strands. Since my hair texture is coarse, this process is fairly easy and takes about 6 months to fully loc. I was so excited to partner with Madison Reed and show the simple process of colorizing my locs. It’s almost identical but requires just a little extra attention when you’re doing it yourself at home.
How to Color Dreads While Avoiding Breakage
- When you part your lokcs, make sure to section them into four parts. If they’re short (0-4 years) one kit should be enough for all of the colors in there, but if it’s longer than that then I recommend using two kits so as not to err on being too light or dark when styling later down the line.
- The color needs to settle deep into the locs or it can result in a spotty dye job. Once your barrier cream is applied, put on gloves and mix together. You’ll want four sections of hair for this stage: two on top (the part that will be seen) followed by another set directly below them which cannot see any light at all because they’re covered beneath their own hooded layer; take note if you have long ears as well.
- While your color is applied, you should also apply a cap. The most common type of hair care box will suggest leaving the dye on for 30-40 minutes and if locs than 45–50 minutes are required because matted locks take longer to penetrate during those times in which we’re waiting around; but make sure not remove any additional amount from skin near ears or hands while doing so.
- You should always rinse your hair until the water runs clear. I suggest following up with a deep oil conditioner to properly nourish and moisturize this type of natural fiber. You can use coconut or Jamaican castor oils in order for them to stay healthy while still being easy on your budget too- they’re both affordable options that work wonders.
- When it’s time to style your locs, make sure you condition them first This will help reduce any breakage or damage from coloring. Use a deep moisturizing shampoo at least once per week and follow up with an extra-strength hair mask each night before bed for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best dye to use on dreadlocks?
Crushing plant leaves produces henna, a natural hair dye. Because it is natural, it is said to be better for your hair than synthetic chemical hair dyes. Henna has qualities that make it a strengthening conditioner for your locks.
Is hair dye good for dreadlocks?
You can cut, curl, and yes, even color locs. Due to the fact that the hair isn't loose, there are a few factors to take into account before changing your color, such as the shade you want and whether you want to dye your complete head of locs, keep with highlights, or choose an ombré finish.
How long does dye last in dreads?
You will need to continuously reapply your desired hair color, every 8 to 12 weeks. This also holds true for imaginary hues like purple, pink, blue, and/or green; these hues must be replenished periodically to keep their brightness.
Will dye damage my locs?
As you may already be aware, coloring our hair typically causes harm to the hair strands. Even if we might get a great color, if our locs feel and appear dry and brittle, we might suddenly face new problems.
