How Often to Wash Dreadlocks: Everything You Need to Know

Dreadlocks are more than just a hairstyle; they’re a lifestyle. If you’re new to the dreadlock journey, there’s one question that often pops up: How often should you wash your dreadlocks? In today’s article, we’ll be diving into the nitty-gritty of dreadlock hygiene and exploring some tips for keeping those locks fresh and clean.

Why Should You Wash Your Dreadlocks?

Before we get into how often you should wash your dreadlocks, let’s first understand why you need to wash them in the first place.

Dreadlocks are notorious for accumulating loads of buildup. It’s really important to wash your dreadlocks often because they pick up dirt, debris, and other pollutants from the air while you go about your day. Letting these debris and pollutants build up in your hair could result in itchiness and even infections on your scalp.

How Washing Aids Locking

Certain hairdressers advise their clients to refrain from washing their dreads for the initial six months to avoid interfering with the locking process. However, this notion is often misguided. Waiting that long isn’t necessary. Typically, you should only wait around four weeks before washing your dreads after getting them done. And as it turns out, washing your dreadlocks can actually aid in the locking process. Here’s how:

1. Removal of Residue: Washing helps remove residue, dirt, and oils that can accumulate on the hair and scalp, preventing buildup that hinders the locking process.

2. Cleaner Scalp: A clean scalp promotes healthier hair growth and facilitates the locking process by reducing oiliness and buildup.

3. Encourages Knotting: Washing encourages knotting and maturation of dreads as the hair swells and contracts during the washing process, helping knots and tangles form within the dreadlocks.

4. Stimulates Scalp: Massaging the scalp during washing stimulates blood flow, promoting healthy hair growth and strengthening the roots of the dreadlocks.

How Often to Wash Dreadlocks

When it comes to washing dreadlocks, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The frequency of washing your dreadlocks can vary depending on several factors, including scalp condition and personal preference. Here are some general guidelines to consider:

1. Every 1-2 Weeks

Washing your dreadlocks every 1-2 weeks is a common recommendation. This frequency helps maintain cleanliness without overdoing it and stripping the hair of its natural oils, which are essential for healthy dreadlock growth.

2. Listen to Your Scalp

Pay attention to your scalp. If it feels itchy or you pick up buildup when you touch your scalp with your fingers, it might be time to give your dreadlocks a good gentle cleanse. On the flip side, if your scalp feels dry or irritated, you might be washing too frequently. Finding the right balance is vital.

3. Activity Level

If you lead an active lifestyle; say you gym regularly or actively take part in sports activities, you may need to wash your dreadlocks more frequently to remove the buildup of sweat and prevent a bad odor from developing in your hair. Additionally, if you live in an area with lots of dust from developing road works or a lack of tarmac, you may have to consider washing your dreadlocks more often.

Tips for Washing Dreadlocks

Now that you know how often to wash your dreadlocks, let’s talk about the proper way to do it. Follow these simple tips to keep your dreadlocks clean and healthy:

1. Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo

To effectively clean your dreadlocks without stripping too much of your scalp’s natural oils, use a sulfate-free formula like our Sapphire Hair Shampoo or Tsavorite Clarifying Treatment Hair Shampoo (for cases of loads of buildup). Avoid products containing harsh chemicals like sulfates which can irritate your scalp and leave it excessively dry.

2. Wet Your Dreads

Wet your dreads to make the shampoo lather easier. This ensures that the shampoo can penetrate through the hair and scalp, effectively cleansing them.

3. Focus on the Scalp

Gently massage the shampoo into your scalp, focusing on the roots of your dreadlocks. Use your fingertips to work the shampoo through your hair, loosening any dirt or buildup trapped in the dreadlocks.

4. Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse your dreadlocks thoroughly with lukewarm water until the water runs clear. Pay special attention to the scalp to ensure all shampoo residue is removed lest you have to deal with more buildup.

5. Pat Dry

After washing, gently squeeze excess water from your dreadlocks and pat them dry with a clean microfiber towel or old t-shirt. To ease the drying process, bend over to let your dreads hang from the back to the front of your head to have the water come out easily.

6. Air Dry

Allow your dreadlocks to air dry completely before styling or tying them back. Leaving the dreadlocks wet could lead to a bad smell in the hair. Additionally, avoid using heat styling tools to dry the hair, as excessive heat can weaken the hair and cause thinning.

Aftercare

Ensure to hydrate your scalp post-cleansing to prevent irritation and discomfort. Apply a water-based moisturizer to your scalp, like the Livara Tsavorite Spritz Moisturizer Hair Spray, followed by your preferred natural oil to lock in moisture effectively.

Bottomline

By incorporating regular and proper washing into your dreadlock care routine, you can help ensure that your locks mature beautifully and remain healthy for years to come. Remember, finding the right balance and listening to your hair and scalp are key to achieving optimal results. And don’t forget, you are a gem.