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How to Wash Your Dreadlocks

Updated: Jul 5, 2022



If you ask me, a wrong notion has been used to portray dreadlocked individuals as people with poor hair hygiene. This, however, could not be further from the truth. I have met so many people who are very intentional about their hair care routine while on their locs journey. If you are new to the dreadlock community, you may be worried about how to go about washing your dreadlocks. This is why I have compiled this guide, containing step-by-step guidance on the dreadlocks washing process.


Step-by-Step Process


Dampen your dreadlocks and scalp:


The first step when it comes to washing your dreadlocks is to dampen them. You can do so by running water over them in the shower until your hair gets saturated. It is advisable to use warm water. However, it should not be too hot.


Shampoo your scalp and locs:



Start by pouring out a little amount of shampoo onto your hands and gently rubbing it on your hands as to create a lather. You should be careful not to use too much shampoo at once.


You can now work the shampoo into your scalp and hair. Using both hands, ensure that you distribute the shampoo into all the spaces. You especially want to pay attention to the roots as this is where the attachment takes place. Also, massage it into your scalp to get rid of dirt and oil that may have accumulated. If you feel you need to be thorough, you can touch on each loc individually. However, you want to be careful not to overdo it.


Rinse the shampoo:


Before you go ahead and rinse, you can allow the shampoo to sit for a few minutes. You can then thoroughly rinse your hair in the shower, allowing the rinse to run through your locs. Run the shower through your locs until you are sure that there is no more shampoo residue left on your locs. If you do not rinse properly, then the residue left in your locks can cause them to get tangled or matted together.


Rinse with ACV Solution:




Start by preparing your water and Apple Cider Vinegar solution. This should be mixed in the ratio 3:1 in a large water bottle or any other container. Make sure you create enough to rin