One week old dreads, a little help please?

Alright, I adore dreads. Been wanting them for years and years.
Nearly a week ago I finally got them and I'm 20 years old, so yay!
I just have a few questions.
I guess my hair type is a bit harder to maintain dreads. Or at least the back bottom half of my hair. It's softer.
Also, it's a kinda difficult to wash back there without me worrying if they're going to fall apart and what not. But I try too.
Any suggestions?

Also, I think I may put small rubber bands on some, I hear they hold them together and helps them lock up while they grow. So I would put them on the back bottom half that aren't locking so well. Good idea?

 

What method did you use?

 

Rubber bands are pointless. If anything, they hinder process

And dreads falling apart are quite common. But they will redread over time


look at pat being helpful

 

Backcombing, twisting method. Well, as long as they'll redread I guess I have nothing to fear then huh? I just get scared that they'll fall apart and not go back together.

 

Backcombing falls apart, typically. But after six or eight gut wrenching months, it all comes back together.

 

Whats the best thing I can do then?

 

less is more

 

lol, what does that mean?
less backcombing?

 

just gotta let go of the process and let your hair do its thing for like a year

 

Alright. I'll do that then. But as far as washing them goes...whats the safest way? I know, residue free shampoo. But any tips?

 

Oh and thank you all so much for the quick replies. It's very helpful.

 

less as in less of everything you have a great start and i'm sure if you just left them alone they will be spectacular

 

washing: it may be helpful to wear panties with the legs cut off if u dont want ur hair to fall apart

 

How will that help wash them though?
Like with shampoo and everything. With my hair, if it's just plain water, it'll still get oily.

 

Dunno if they got Central Markets everywhere but they got some good soaps for dreads there.

 

you should try to get your scalp used to washing with only water, but a little at a time so that it wont get greasy as often, just wash when it gets too oily

 

Don't do this... its stupid and gay as fuck

Having your hair loosen when washing is a part of the dreading process. When they rebuild themselves they are tighter and better looking

Rules when washing
1. Try to wash with the palms of your hands rather than your finger tips
2. Lather your head up somethiong chronic
3. Rinse up a storm
4. Dab your head with a towel to stop your hair from dripping and let air dry

-Notes
wash when
a) your dreads smell like shit
b) your dreads are greasy as shit
c) dirty as a mofo

 

nooo residue SOAP SOAP sudsy wudsy scritchy scratchy all over your head rinse clean shake dry

 

Have you read this?

http://www.hipforums.com/newforums/showthread.php?t=364273&f=209

:cheers2:

 

read the stickys!&welcome