Hello every one I just need some help with dreadlocks. I was just wondering around how long does the process of natural/neglecting takes (my hair is very thick and wavy, I'm mexican). Also how long should my hair be when I start neglecting? Also is there anything I should know before doing it (besides non residue shampoo)? I have been wanting dreadlocks for around 2 years now, and I have finally convinced myself to get them! Thanks everyone, peace Andrew
Depends on you hair and what you do with it, but it'll probably just look a mess for the first 12 months. Curly / wavy hair dreads quicker. As for how long, it doesn't really matter, just stop brushing now.
You can start neglecting your hair at any length. So start now. From what I've read/experience your hair needs to be 6+ inches long for the neglect process to show "results". But it might need to be longer/shorter for certain people. As far as time wise, it's hard to say. Probably 6-12 months for decent results and 1-2 years to have noticeable dreads. But it could go faster, you never know.
I'm actually not sure, but just wanted to say! Go for it anyways! Dreadlocks take alot of patience, and alot of time to lock properly. I have naturally straight/soft hair so my dready process has been interesting to say the least. I'd suggest backcombing to speed the process up if you're concerned with how long it's going to take. Mexican, curly/thick hair dreads alot quicker then straight hair for sure. You lucky bum!!! Goodluck!!! Time is key!
Just stop combing and get some bronners, all you should need to know at first. And every now and then you can wash with a vinegar/water mix or baking soda or something to get out the little bit of residue. I started neglecting expecting it to not work to well cause of my hair, but it was clear what kind of direction things would take witthin 2 weeks, when my first few dreads started showing up. I'd say just bite the bullet.
Well I don't really want to backcomb it, I would rather do it the most natural way. I actually think that the longer it takes the better, a journey of patience, which I have been trying to fix =). Also, Thanks to everyone who responded!
as others have already mentioned, there's really nothing you need to 'know' to grow neglect dreads. just keep 'em really clean have fun!
just keep it clean. you can neglect it from any length. some people grow dreads from a shaved head. make sure they dry completely before washing again. this is probably the most important thing besides washing them.
oh yea I forgot one thing to ask, I was thinking about bleaching my hair at the ends, I heard this helps, right? Also if I bleach around 4 inches of my hair, how big will the bleached ends be when they dread up?
I could be wrong, but I don't see how it would help. Correlation does not equal causation. Tips on mature dreads will probably look bleached, but that's because it's been there a long time....
I see the line of thought, but I don't think it's going to do much. I think as far as drying, a lot of people swear by sea salt solution sprays, but I've never tried it.
