Dreadlock extensions, also referred to as loc extensions, are a good looking method so as to add size, quantity, and magnificence to your pure hair. Whether or not you are seeking to create a full head of dreads or simply add just a few highlights, dreadlock extensions might help you obtain the look you are going for. On this article, we’ll talk about all the pieces you want to learn about including dread extensions, from choosing the proper kind of extensions to putting in them your self. So should you’re prepared so as to add some dreads to your life, hold studying!
There are various various kinds of dreadlock extensions out there, so it is essential to decide on the kind that is best for you. Artificial dreads are essentially the most reasonably priced choice, they usually’re out there in all kinds of colours and types. Nonetheless, artificial dreads will be troublesome to keep up they usually might not final so long as different varieties of extensions. Human hair dreads are costlier than artificial dreads, however they’re additionally extra natural-looking and sturdy. Human hair dreads will be coloured and styled similar to your pure hair, so you possibly can create a really distinctive look. As soon as you’ve got chosen the kind of dreadlock extensions you need, it is time to set up them. Putting in dreadlock extensions is usually a bit tough, however with a bit of apply, you are able to do it your self at dwelling.
Step one is to part your hair off into small sections. Then, take a small piece of extension hair and wrap it across the base of a bit of your pure hair. Tie the extension hair off with a rubber band or string. Repeat this course of till your entire hair is roofed in extensions. As soon as the entire extensions are in place, you possibly can type your hair as desired. Dreadlock extensions will be styled in a wide range of methods, so you possibly can create a glance that is all your personal. Whether or not you are going for a pure look or a extra edgy type, dreadlock extensions might help you obtain the look you are going for.
Sorts of Dreadlock Extensions
Artificial Dreadlock Extensions
Artificial dreadlock extensions are made out of a wide range of supplies, together with acrylic, polyester, and kanekalon. They’re light-weight and straightforward to put in, however they don’t seem to be as sturdy as human hair extensions. Artificial dreadlock extensions will be bought in a variety of colours and types, and they’re an excellent choice for individuals who need to add dreadlocks to their hair with out the long-term dedication of rising them.
| Professionals |
|---|
| Light-weight |
| Simple to put in |
| Obtainable in a variety of colours and types |
| Inexpensive |
| Cons |
| Not as sturdy as human hair extensions |
| May be troublesome to type |
| Might trigger scalp irritation |
Selecting the Proper Extensions for Your Hair
Step one in including dread extensions is choosing the proper ones on your hair. There are some things to contemplate when making your alternative, together with the size, thickness, and coloration of your hair. You will additionally need to resolve whether or not you need artificial or human hair extensions.
Size
The size of your dread extensions must be based mostly on the size of your personal hair. You probably have quick hair, you may need to select extensions which are not than your personal hair. You probably have lengthy hair, you possibly can select extensions which are any size you need.
Thickness
The thickness of your dread extensions also needs to be based mostly on the thickness of your personal hair. You probably have high quality hair, you may need to select extensions which are additionally high quality. You probably have thick hair, you possibly can select extensions which are both high quality or thick.
Colour
The colour of your dread extensions ought to match the colour of your personal hair. You probably have black hair, you may need to select extensions which are additionally black. You probably have brown hair, you possibly can select extensions which are brown, black, and even blonde. You probably have blonde hair, you possibly can select extensions which are blonde, brown, and even black.
Artificial vs. Human Hair
Artificial dread extensions are made out of a sort of plastic known as acrylic. They’re cheaper than human hair extensions, however they’re additionally much less sturdy. Human hair extensions are made out of actual human hair, so they’re extra sturdy and natural-looking than artificial extensions. Nonetheless, they’re additionally costlier.
| Attribute | Artificial Extensions | Human Hair Extensions |
|---|---|---|
| Value | Cheaper | Dearer |
| Sturdiness | Much less sturdy | Extra sturdy |
| Look | Much less natural-looking | Extra natural-looking |
Making ready Your Hair for Extensions
Earlier than making use of dread extensions, it is essential to organize your pure hair to make sure a safe and wholesome maintain. This is a step-by-step information that will help you get your hair prepared:
1. Wash and Deep Situation
Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to take away any product buildup or filth. Observe with a deep conditioner to moisturize and strengthen your hair.
2. Detangle and Separate
Use a wide-toothed comb or brush to softly take away any tangles. Then, separate your hair into small sections, making it simpler to work with.
3. Create a Base Basis (Particular for Dreadlock Installations)
This step is important for interlocking dread extensions along with your pure hair.
Possibility 1: Conventional Braiding
- Braid small sections of your hair in a round movement.
- Safe the braids near the roots utilizing a rubber band.
- The thickness and variety of braids depend upon the specified thickness of your dread extensions.
Possibility 2: Crochet Technique
- Insert a crochet hook by means of the middle of a bit of hair.
- Seize a small quantity of hair from the skin and pull it by means of the hook.
- Loop the hair again by means of the opening and tighten, securing the hair to the bottom.
Possibility 3: Loc Extensions
- Buy loc extensions that match the dimensions and magnificence of your required dreads.
- Break up your hair into sections that correspond to the dimensions of the loc extensions.
- Connect the loc extensions to your pure hair utilizing the interlocking technique.
Putting in Dreadlock Extensions
Putting in dreadlock extensions entails a number of steps:
1. Preparation
Earlier than putting in, put together the hair by washing it with clarifying shampoo and permitting it to air dry. This removes any product residue and ensures higher adhesion of the extensions.
2. Dreadlock Creation
Create particular person dreadlocks from the extensions utilizing the specified technique, reminiscent of twisting, interlocking, or backcombing. Safe the ends with a small quantity of beeswax or dreadlock wax to forestall unraveling.
3. Attaching Extensions
To connect the extensions to the hair, use a crochet hook or latch hook to create a loop on the base of the present dreadlock. Insert the hook into the artificial dreadlock and pull it by means of the loop. Tighten the knot and safe it with a small quantity of beeswax.
4. Combining and Sculpting
As soon as the extensions are connected, mix them seamlessly with the present dreadlocks. Rub the brand new dreadlocks with a dreadlock sponge or towel to encourage interlocking. Moreover, take into account the next methods:
| Approach | Description |
|---|---|
| Palm Rolling | Roll the dreadlock between your palms to create a smoother texture and promote knotting. |
| Dread Rubbing | Rub the dreadlock towards a tough floor, reminiscent of a brick wall or piece of sandpaper, to create a extra textured and rugged look. |
| Crocheting | Use a crochet hook to tighten the dreadlock and add further hair for bulk or size. |
Sculpt the dreadlocks into the specified form and measurement utilizing your fingers or a dreadlock hook. Experiment with completely different methods to realize the right look.
Styling Dread Extensions
Dread extensions provide infinite styling prospects. You may braid them, wrap them, tie them up, or create intricate updos. Take into account mixing extensions along with your pure dreads for a extra cohesive look or go for contrasting colours to make an announcement. The choices are limitless!
Sustaining Dread Extensions
To make sure the longevity and well being of your dread extensions, correct upkeep is essential.
1. Washing
Wash extensions each 2-3 weeks utilizing a dreadlock-specific shampoo. Keep away from utilizing common shampoo, as it will possibly strip the hair of its pure oils.
2. Drying
Air drying is the most secure approach to dry dread extensions. Keep away from utilizing a blow dryer, as it will possibly harm or loosen the dreads.
3. Moisturizing
Apply a dreadlock moisturizer commonly to maintain the hair hydrated and forestall breakage. Select a moisturizer that is freed from alcohol and fragrances.
4. Inspection and Tightening
Examine your extensions commonly for free spots or unraveling. Tighten any free areas as wanted utilizing a crochet hook.
5. Styling and Retwisting
To take care of the specified type and construction of your dread extensions, common styling and retwisting are important.
| Styling Strategies | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Braiding | As desired |
| Wrapping | As desired |
| Updos | As desired |
| Retwisting | Each 2-3 weeks or as wanted |
Retwisting entails wrapping new development across the current dreads to keep up their form and integrity. You may both do that your self or have it carried out by knowledgeable loctician.
Troubleshooting Frequent Points with Dread Extensions
Drawback: Locs have an odd odor
Some extensions include a robust artificial odor; this may be eliminated by washing dreads with a clarifying shampoo. If the odor persists, take into account soaking the locs in a mix of equal elements water and white vinegar for a number of hours earlier than washing.
Drawback: Locs are stiff or tangled
Dread extensions can turn out to be stiff and tangled because of product buildup or improper upkeep. To melt them, apply a moisturizing conditioner or coconut oil. Gently detangle knots along with your fingers or a wide-toothed comb, ranging from the underside of the locs and dealing your method up.
Drawback: Locs are shedding
In case you discover small hairs coming free from the locs, attempt to reattach them by interlocking or crocheting the free strands again into the principle physique of the loc. If the shedding is extreme, take into account contacting your stylist for skilled recommendation as it might point out an issue with the set up or the standard of the dreads.
Drawback: Locs are beginning to unravel
Unraveling dreads will be brought on by friction, moisture, or improper set up. To forestall additional unraveling, safe the ends of the locs with a thread or rubber band. Use a crochet hook or a specialised dread device to tighten any free sections, and apply a small quantity of hair gel or wax to carry the locs in place.
Drawback: Locs are too heavy
Heavy dread extensions could cause discomfort or harm to your pure hair. Think about using shorter locs, selecting a lighter materials, or limiting the variety of extensions put in. In case you expertise any ache or tenderness, take away the dreads and seek the advice of knowledgeable for recommendation.
Drawback: Dread extensions are inflicting harm to my pure hair
Correct dreadlock set up and upkeep are essential to keep away from harm to your pure hair. Be sure that the locs usually are not too tight and that you’re utilizing the suitable merchandise and methods for laundry and sustaining them. In case you discover any indicators of breakage, thinning, or scalp irritation, discontinue use of dread extensions and search skilled recommendation.
Eradicating Dreadlock Extensions
Eradicating dreadlock extensions requires a cautious strategy to make sure minimal harm to pure hair. This is an in depth information:
1. Collect Essential Instruments
You will have:
- Sharp scissors
- Comb or hair choose
- Large-toothed comb
- Apple cider vinegar (non-compulsory)
- Moisturizing oil (non-compulsory)
2. Put together Hair
Earlier than eradicating extensions, wash and situation hair. This softens the hair and makes the removing course of simpler.
3. Reduce Extensions
Use sharp scissors to rigorously reduce the extensions near the bottom of the dreadlock. Be cautious to not reduce your pure hair.
4. Gently Unravel Extensions
Ranging from the ideas, use a comb or hair choose to softly unravel the extensions. Work your method down the dreadlock till it is totally eliminated.
5. Take away Sticky Residue
If there may be any sticky residue left from the extensions, apply a small quantity of apple cider vinegar to the affected space. Let it sit for a couple of minutes, then comb out.
6. Rinse and Situation
As soon as all extensions are eliminated, rinse your hair completely to take away any vinegar residue. Apply a deep conditioner to nourish and restore your pure hair.
7. Restore Hair Well being
After eradicating dreadlock extensions, your hair might require further care to revive its well being. Take into account the next:
- Moisturize commonly: Apply a moisturizing oil or lotion to maintain hair hydrated and forestall breakage.
- Keep away from warmth styling: Warmth can additional harm hair that has been weakened by extensions.
- Get common trims: Trim away any cut up ends to advertise wholesome hair development.
- Use protecting types: Defend your hair from the weather and additional harm by sporting protecting types reminiscent of buns or braids.
Caring for Your Dreadlock Extensions
Upkeep and maintenance
Dreadlock extensions require common upkeep to maintain them wanting neat and wholesome. Listed here are some ideas:
Washing
Wash your dreadlocks much less regularly than you’ll common hair, roughly as soon as each two weeks. Use a light, residue-free shampoo and keep away from utilizing conditioner.
Drying
After washing, permit your dreadlocks to air dry. Keep away from utilizing a blow dryer, as this will harm the extensions.
Merchandise
Keep away from utilizing any merchandise that include alcohol or harsh chemical substances, as these can harm the dreadlocks.
Retwisting
Retwist your dreadlocks each few weeks to maintain them safe and forestall unraveling.
Sleeping
Use a satin or silk pillowcase to forestall friction and tangling whereas sleeping.
Carrying headgear
When sporting hats or helmets, be sure that they don’t seem to be too tight, as this will trigger the dreadlocks to turn out to be compressed and matted.
Removing
Dreadlock extensions must be professionally eliminated by a licensed hair stylist. Trying to take away them your self may harm your pure hair.
The Professionals and Cons of Dreadlock Extensions
Professionals:
- Prompt Dreadlocks: Dreadlock extensions present an instantaneous approach to obtain dreadlocks with out the prolonged ready interval of pure dreadlock formation.
- Versatile Styling: Dreadlock extensions provide a variety of styling choices, permitting you to customise your dreadlocks to fit your private style.
- Injury-Free: Extensions can defend your pure hair from harm brought on by twisting, backcombing, or crocheting through the dreadlock formation course of.
- Low Upkeep: Dreadlock extensions require considerably much less upkeep than pure dreadlocks, lowering the necessity for frequent washing, retwisting, or palm rolling.
- Momentary Possibility: In case you’re not prepared for a everlasting dedication to dreadlocks, extensions can help you expertise the look with out the duty.
Cons:
- Expense: Dreadlock extensions will be expensive, particularly for longer and extra complicated types.
- Injury to Hair: If not put in or cared for correctly, extensions could cause harm to your pure hair, notably if they’re too heavy or pulled too tightly.
- Time-Consuming Set up: The set up course of can take a number of hours, relying on the size and thickness of the specified dreadlocks.
- Restricted Lifespan: Dreadlock extensions have a restricted lifespan, sometimes lasting round 6-12 months, relying on care and upkeep.
- Upkeep Challenges: Whereas extensions require much less upkeep than pure dreadlocks, they nonetheless require common grooming, reminiscent of washing, tightening, and palm rolling.
- Discomfort: Dreadlock extensions will be heavy and uncomfortable to put on, particularly when sleeping or throughout bodily exercise.
- Styling Limitations: Whereas extensions provide some styling versatility, they can’t be styled in the identical method as pure dreadlocks, which may kind extra complicated patterns.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Dreadlocks have cultural and historic significance for some communities, and sporting dreadlock extensions with out applicable understanding or respect will be thought-about disrespectful.
- Transitioning to Pure Dreadlocks: Eradicating dreadlock extensions will be difficult and should not consequence within the desired look or texture of pure dreadlocks.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people might expertise allergic reactions to the supplies utilized in dreadlock extensions, reminiscent of wool or artificial fibers.
Discovering a Skilled for Dreadlock Extensions
When selecting knowledgeable for dreadlock extensions, it is essential to contemplate numerous elements to make sure a secure and passable expertise. Listed here are some tricks to help you in making an knowledgeable choice:
1. Analysis and Referrals
Search suggestions from trusted sources, reminiscent of buddies, household, or on-line boards. Learn evaluations and testimonials to realize insights into previous shoppers’ experiences.
2. Expertise and Experience
Search for a stylist who focuses on dreadlock extensions. Inquire about their years of expertise and coaching on this method to evaluate their proficiency.
3. Portfolio and Session
Request a portfolio of their earlier work that showcases their abilities and a spotlight to element. Schedule a session to debate your required look and guarantee it aligns with their experience.
4. Salon Ambiance and Hygiene
Go to the salon to guage its cleanliness {and professional} environment. Be sure that the tools is well-maintained and the workers follows correct sanitation protocols.
5. Pricing and Transparency
Inquire about the price of the extensions, together with set up and upkeep. Keep away from hidden charges or surprises by requesting an in depth breakdown of the fees upfront.
6. Communication and Availability
Select a stylist who’s responsive, attentive, and open to discussing your concepts and considerations. Inquire about their availability for follow-up appointments or upkeep.
7. Credentials and Licensing
Confirm the stylist’s {qualifications} by checking for any related certifications or licenses. This demonstrates their dedication to trade requirements {and professional} improvement.
8. Constructive Suggestions
Learn on-line evaluations and shopper testimonials to collect suggestions on the stylist’s work, customer support, and adherence to sanitary practices.
9. Social Media Presence
Observe the stylist on social media platforms to view examples of their work, join with potential shoppers, and keep up to date on trade traits.
10. Shopper Evaluations and Testimonials
Collect testimonials from previous shoppers to gauge their satisfaction ranges, the standard of the extensions, and the general expertise with the stylist. Take into account compiling these evaluations in a desk for simple reference:
| Shopper | Testimonial |
|---|---|
| Sarah J. | “Wonderful work! The extensions look pure and mix seamlessly with my very own hair. I extremely advocate this stylist for anybody contemplating dreadlock extensions.” |
| John B. | “Very skilled and educated. The stylist took the time to clarify the method completely and addressed all my considerations. I’m very proud of the outcomes.” |
| Emily S. | “The extensions are of fantastic high quality and the set up was flawless. I really like the brand new feel and appear assured with my hair. Thanks for the wonderful transformation!” |
The best way to Add Dread Extensions
Including dread extensions is a good way so as to add size, quantity, and magnificence to your hair. It’s a comparatively straightforward course of that may be carried out at dwelling or by knowledgeable stylist. Here’s a step-by-step information on tips on how to add dread extensions:
- Collect your provides. You will have dread extensions, a crochet hook, a latch hook, and scissors.
- Put together your hair. Wash and situation your hair to take away any filth or oil.
- Begin by dreading your personal hair. This can assist to create a base for the extensions.
- Connect the dread extensions. Use the crochet hook or latch hook to connect the dread extensions to your pure hair.
- Trim the extensions. As soon as the extensions are connected, trim them in order that they’re the identical size as your pure hair.
Individuals Additionally Ask
How lengthy do dread extensions final?
With correct care, dread extensions can final for 6-12 months.
How do I look after dread extensions?
To look after dread extensions, wash them commonly with a light shampoo. You also needs to keep away from utilizing warmth styling instruments.
How a lot do dread extensions price?
The price of dread extensions varies relying on the size, kind, and high quality of the extensions. Nonetheless, you possibly can anticipate to pay anyplace from $100 to $500 for a full set of extensions.
