What are Dreadlocks

Understanding dreadlocks

Dreadlocks are coils of human hair usually formed with intentional back combing. As the hair grows, the strands will tangle which causes a twisted appearance. This kind of hair style is often associated with the Rastafarian movement however, a lot of different race have worn dreadlocks way before them such as the Pakistan’s Sufis and Fakirs, and the Maasai people of East Africa.

History of Dreadlocks

This hair style has been a tradition for thousands of years originating from the northern and eastern region of Africa and even today it still exists. Even in during the reign of the Egyptian empire where people wear dreadlocks as wigs as their form of hair styles. As evidenced by the archaeological facts found in mummified bodies that were excavated in the ancient city.

Dreadlocks are not just closely associated with the Rastafarian movement but also with a lot of different beliefs around the globe. A good example for this is the Buddhists where dreadlocks are worn instead of the traditional shaved head and the most known groups are Tibet’s Ngagpas where they believe that having dreadlocks is their way of letting go their excessive attachments and material desires. Islam can also be considered for this matter where few groups of Sufi don’t comb their hair as a result of naturally formed dreadlocks however, it will take many years to develop a perfect dreadlock.

In the 20^th century, dreadlocks are even more popularized with reggae music and were generally accepted by a lot of people in 1970’s. The hair style has become a fashion statement by authors, athletes, actors, and musicians. The most popular icon who wore dreadlocks is none other than the Legend himself, Robert Nesta “Bob” Marley. He reached out to the world with his music and “locks” and set the trend all over the world.

Since the booming of the popularity of dreadlocks, Black people mostly in the America and the Caribbean have genuinely developed a wide variety of ways on how to wear a dreadlock with texture of Afro hair. There are specific elements for these styles which includes the flat-twist, where a section of locks are tangled together flat against the scalp of your head which creates an similar effect to the braided dreadlocks, and cornrow.

How to make a dreadlocks hairstyle?

To create dreadlocks, one has to abstain in using shampoos and other hair care products, combing and brushing. It has a wide variety of size, shape, width, length and texture. Allowing the hair to tangle or knit together is called “Freeform” dreadlocks and it will develop in different sizes but these locks are formed in pattern.

There are things that you need in order for you to do a dreadlock in any kind. First, you will need to have a hair at least three inches long or longer is much better. The process of making your hair a dreadlock takes time and it is very practical to have an assistant to do the job easier and faster. The second thing you will is a strong comb with a closely-spaced teeth, and hair clips.