Hi, our Daddy Dreads studio has put together some tips for you to help your dreadlocks grow faster and healthier. Growing dreadlocks takes time and care, but these natural methods can make a big difference. Let’s dive in!
Keep Your Dreads Healthy and Dry
One of the most important things for healthy dreadlocks is keeping them dry. If your dreads are new, your stylist probably told you not to wash them for the first month. This is because new dreads soak up a lot of water, making them puff up and get fluffy, ruining all the hard work.
But it’s not just new dreads that need to stay dry. Water can damage any type of hair by making the fibers swell and weaken, leading to breakage. Wet dreadlocks can also develop a bad smell called ‘dread rot.’ To grow long, healthy dreads, keep them dry and strong after every wash. Here’s how:
- Wash in the Morning: Wash your dreadlocks in the morning so they have time to dry during the day.
- Squeeze Out Water: After your shower, squeeze out as much water as you can from your dreads.
- Use a Microfiber Towel: Wrap your dreadlocks in a microfiber towel to soak up the water.
- Air Dry: Leave your hair uncovered for the rest of the day to dry naturally.
A microfiber towel designed for dreadlocks can be very helpful. It dries hair faster than a normal towel and helps avoid damage from rubbing.
Improve Blood Flow to Your Hair
Your hair needs nutrients to grow. Good blood flow delivers these nutrients to your scalp. Without enough blood flow, your dreadlocks might not get the nourishment they need. Here are some easy ways to boost blood flow:
- Exercise Regularly: Exercise helps improve blood flow, especially to your head. Yoga is great for this.
- Scalp Massage: Massage your scalp for a few minutes each day. This increases blood flow to your hair.
- Eat Nutritious Foods: Foods high in iron improve circulation. Spicy foods like cayenne or chili peppers can help blood vessels expand, letting more blood reach your hair.
Reduce Stress
Stress affects your overall health, including hair growth. When you’re stressed, your body makes hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. Long-term stress raises levels of DHT, a hormone that makes hair follicles shrink and slows down hair growth. Here’s how to manage stress and help your hair grow:
- Exercise Regularly: Physical activity reduces stress and boosts health.
- Get Enough Sleep: Make sure you rest well each night.
- Avoid Stressful Situations: Stay away from difficult people and situations when you can.
- Relax: Find time each day to relax. Try meditation or deep breathing exercises.
Be Patient
Growing hair takes time, and dreadlocks take even longer. Patience is key. Avoid taking risks that could damage your dreads. Here are a few things to avoid:
- Unproven Hair-Growth Drugs: Avoid hair-growth drugs that aren’t well-researched. Many companies make promises, but their products may not be safe.
- Frequent Re-twisting: Excessive twisting can thin your hair and cause damage. Wait at least four weeks between re-twisting sessions.
- Excessive Supplements: While some supplements can help hair growth, always talk to your doctor before starting any new ones.
FAQs
How often should I wash my dreadlocks
Wash your dreadlocks once a week to keep them clean without causing damage. Make sure they are thoroughly dried after each wash to prevent dread rot.
What’s the best way to dry my dreadlocks?
Use a microfiber towel to soak up excess water and allow yourdreads to air dry.
Can stress really affect my dreadlock growth?
Yes, long-term stress can increase DHT levels, which cause hair follicles to shrink and slow down hair growth.
How often should I re-twist my dreadlocks?
It’s best to re-twist your dreadlocks every four to six weeks to avoid thinning and damage.
Are there any foods that can help my dreadlocks grow?
Foods rich in iron and hot spices like cayenne or chili peppers can improve blood circulation, which helps deliver nutrients to your hair, promoting growth.
Danila Deriabin
For over 11 years I have been dedicated to the art of dreadlocks braiding and teaching new masters. My studio is the place where stunning dreadlocks are created from natural and synthetic hair.
Daddy Dreads — we create art that you wear.
