Dreadlock extensions, also called loc extensions, are a fantastic manner so as to add size, quantity, and magnificence to your pure hair. Whether or not you are trying 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 could learn about including dread extensions, from selecting the best sort of extensions to putting in them your self. So in case you’re prepared so as to add some dreads to your life, preserve studying!
There are various several types 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 possibility, they usually’re out there in all kinds of colours and types. Nonetheless, artificial dreads could be tough to take care of they usually could not final so long as different forms of extensions. Human hair dreads are costlier than artificial dreads, however they’re additionally extra natural-looking and sturdy. Human hair dreads could be coloured and styled similar to your pure hair, so you’ll be able to create a really distinctive look. As soon as you have chosen the kind of dreadlock extensions you need, it is time to set up them. Putting in dreadlock extensions generally is a bit difficult, however with somewhat observe, you are able to do it your self at house.
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 whole hair is roofed in extensions. As soon as the entire extensions are in place, you’ll be able to fashion your hair as desired. Dreadlock extensions could be styled in quite a lot of methods, so you’ll be able to create a glance that is all your individual. Whether or not you are going for a pure look or a extra edgy fashion, dreadlock extensions might help you obtain the look you are going for.
Kinds of Dreadlock Extensions
Artificial Dreadlock Extensions
Artificial dreadlock extensions are produced from quite a lot of supplies, together with acrylic, polyester, and kanekalon. They’re light-weight and simple to put in, however they aren’t as sturdy as human hair extensions. Artificial dreadlock extensions could be bought in a variety of colours and types, and they’re an awesome possibility for individuals who wish to add dreadlocks to their hair with out the long-term dedication of rising them.
| Professionals |
|---|
| Light-weight |
| Straightforward to put in |
| Obtainable in a variety of colours and types |
| Inexpensive |
| Cons |
| Not as sturdy as human hair extensions |
| Will be tough to fashion |
| Might trigger scalp irritation |
Selecting the Proper Extensions for Your Hair
Step one in including dread extensions is selecting the best ones to your hair. There are some things to contemplate when making your alternative, together with the size, thickness, and colour of your hair. You may additionally wish to resolve whether or not you need artificial or human hair extensions.
Size
The size of your dread extensions must be primarily based on the size of your individual hair. If in case you have brief hair, you will wish to select extensions which are now not than your individual hair. If in case you have lengthy hair, you’ll be able to select extensions which are any size you need.
Thickness
The thickness of your dread extensions also needs to be primarily based on the thickness of your individual hair. If in case you have positive hair, you will wish to select extensions which are additionally positive. If in case you have thick hair, you’ll be able to select extensions which are both positive or thick.
Shade
The colour of your dread extensions ought to match the colour of your individual hair. If in case you have black hair, you will wish to select extensions which are additionally black. If in case you have brown hair, you’ll be able to select extensions which are brown, black, and even blonde. If in case you have blonde hair, you’ll be able to select extensions which are blonde, brown, and even black.
Artificial vs. Human Hair
Artificial dread extensions are produced from 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 produced from 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Worth | Inexpensive | 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 arrange 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 dust. Comply with 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 together 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 rely upon the specified thickness of your dread extensions.
Possibility 2: Crochet Methodology
- Insert a crochet hook by the middle of a bit of hair.
- Seize a small quantity of hair from the skin and pull it by the hook.
- Loop the hair again by the outlet and tighten, securing the hair to the bottom.
Possibility 3: Loc Extensions
- Buy loc extensions that match the scale and magnificence of your required dreads.
- Cut up your hair into sections that correspond to the scale of the loc extensions.
- Connect the loc extensions to your pure hair utilizing the interlocking methodology.
Putting in Dreadlock Extensions
Putting in dreadlock extensions includes 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 methodology, corresponding to twisting, interlocking, or backcombing. Safe the ends with a small quantity of beeswax or dreadlock wax to stop 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 prevailing dreadlock. Insert the hook into the artificial dreadlock and pull it by the loop. Tighten the knot and safe it with a small quantity of beeswax.
4. Combining and Sculpting
As soon as the extensions are hooked up, mix them seamlessly with the prevailing dreadlocks. Rub the brand new dreadlocks with a dreadlock sponge or towel to encourage interlocking. Moreover, think about the next strategies:
| Method | 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, corresponding to 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 extra 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 strategies to attain the proper look.
Styling Dread Extensions
Dread extensions supply infinite styling prospects. You’ll be able to braid them, wrap them, tie them up, or create intricate updos. Contemplate mixing extensions together with your pure dreads for a extra cohesive look or go for contrasting colours to make a press release. 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 may strip the hair of its pure oils.
2. Drying
Air drying is the most secure solution to dry dread extensions. Keep away from utilizing a blow dryer, as it may harm or loosen the dreads.
3. Moisturizing
Apply a dreadlock moisturizer often to maintain the hair hydrated and stop breakage. Select a moisturizer that is freed from alcohol and fragrances.
4. Inspection and Tightening
Examine your extensions often for unfastened spots or unraveling. Tighten any unfastened areas as wanted utilizing a crochet hook.
5. Styling and Retwisting
To keep up the specified fashion 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 includes wrapping new progress across the present dreads to take care of their form and integrity. You’ll be able to both do that your self or have it completed by knowledgeable loctician.
Troubleshooting Widespread Points with Dread Extensions
Drawback: Locs have a wierd odor
Some extensions include a robust artificial odor; this may be eliminated by washing dreads with a clarifying shampoo. If the odor persists, think about 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 into stiff and tangled resulting from product buildup or improper upkeep. To melt them, apply a moisturizing conditioner or coconut oil. Gently detangle knots together with your fingers or a wide-toothed comb, ranging from the underside of the locs and dealing your manner up.
Drawback: Locs are shedding
When you discover small hairs coming unfastened from the locs, attempt to reattach them by interlocking or crocheting the unfastened strands again into the primary physique of the loc. If the shedding is extreme, think about 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 could be brought on by friction, moisture, or improper set up. To stop 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 unfastened 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. When 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 certain that the locs are usually not too tight and that you’re utilizing the suitable merchandise and strategies for laundry and sustaining them. When 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 Mandatory Instruments
You will want:
- Sharp scissors
- Comb or hair decide
- Extensive-toothed comb
- Apple cider vinegar (optionally available)
- Moisturizing oil (optionally available)
2. Put together Hair
Earlier than eradicating extensions, wash and situation hair. This softens the hair and makes the elimination course of simpler.
3. Reduce Extensions
Use sharp scissors to rigorously minimize the extensions near the bottom of the dreadlock. Be cautious to not minimize your pure hair.
4. Gently Unravel Extensions
Ranging from the information, use a comb or hair decide to softly unravel the extensions. Work your manner down the dreadlock till it is absolutely 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 could require extra care to revive its well being. Contemplate the next:
- Moisturize often: Apply a moisturizing oil or lotion to maintain hair hydrated and stop 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 progress.
- Use protecting types: Defend your hair from the weather and additional harm by sporting protecting types corresponding to 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, enable your dreadlocks to air dry. Keep away from utilizing a blow dryer, as this may 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 stop unraveling.
Sleeping
Use a satin or silk pillowcase to stop friction and tangling whereas sleeping.
Sporting headgear
When sporting hats or helmets, be sure they aren’t too tight, as this may trigger the dreadlocks to turn into 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 solution to obtain dreadlocks with out the prolonged ready interval of pure dreadlock formation.
- Versatile Styling: Dreadlock extensions supply a variety of styling choices, permitting you to customise your dreadlocks to fit your private style.
- Harm-Free: Extensions can shield 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.
- Non permanent Possibility: When you’re not prepared for a everlasting dedication to dreadlocks, extensions assist you to expertise the look with out the duty.
Cons:
- Expense: Dreadlock extensions could be pricey, particularly for longer and extra complicated types.
- Harm to Hair: If not put in or cared for correctly, extensions could cause harm to your pure hair, significantly 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, usually 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, corresponding to washing, tightening, and palm rolling.
- Discomfort: Dreadlock extensions could be heavy and uncomfortable to put on, particularly when sleeping or throughout bodily exercise.
- Styling Limitations: Whereas extensions supply some styling versatility, they can’t be styled in the identical manner as pure dreadlocks, which may type extra complicated patterns.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Dreadlocks have cultural and historic significance for some communities, and sporting dreadlock extensions with out acceptable understanding or respect could be thought of disrespectful.
- Transitioning to Pure Dreadlocks: Eradicating dreadlock extensions could be difficult and should not consequence within the desired look or texture of pure dreadlocks.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people could expertise allergic reactions to the supplies utilized in dreadlock extensions, corresponding to wool or artificial fibers.
Discovering a Skilled for Dreadlock Extensions
When selecting knowledgeable for dreadlock extensions, it is essential to contemplate varied 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, corresponding to pals, household, or on-line boards. Learn critiques and testimonials to achieve insights into previous purchasers’ experiences.
2. Expertise and Experience
Search for a stylist who makes a speciality of 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 expertise and a focus 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 judge its cleanliness {and professional} environment. Be certain that the gear 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 costs upfront.
6. Communication and Availability
Select a stylist who’s responsive, attentive, and open to discussing your concepts and issues. 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 business requirements {and professional} growth.
8. Optimistic Suggestions
Learn on-line critiques and shopper testimonials to collect suggestions on the stylist’s work, customer support, and adherence to sanitary practices.
9. Social Media Presence
Comply with the stylist on social media platforms to view examples of their work, join with potential purchasers, and keep up to date on business tendencies.
10. Shopper Critiques and Testimonials
Collect testimonials from previous purchasers to gauge their satisfaction ranges, the standard of the extensions, and the general expertise with the stylist. Contemplate compiling these critiques 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 suggest 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 issues. 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 appear and feel assured with my hair. Thanks for the wonderful transformation!” |
The 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 completed at house or by knowledgeable stylist. Here’s a step-by-step information on easy methods to add dread extensions:
- Collect your provides. You will want dread extensions, a crochet hook, a latch hook, and scissors.
- Put together your hair. Wash and situation your hair to take away any dust or oil.
- Begin by dreading your individual hair. This may 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 hooked up, 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 take care of dread extensions?
To take care of dread extensions, wash them often with a light shampoo. You also needs to keep away from utilizing warmth styling instruments.
How a lot do dread extensions value?
The price of dread extensions varies relying on the size, sort, and high quality of the extensions. Nonetheless, you’ll be able to count on to pay anyplace from $100 to $500 for a full set of extensions.
