If you want fatter locs, you can separate a thicker section of hair. Use sections that are 1 inch by 1 inch (2. 5 cm by 2. 5 cm) square at the base for medium locs, or double the size for a large loc. Backcombing works best on hair that’s 6 inches (15 cm) or longer, but can work with hair as short as 3 inches (7. 6 cm). Backcombing an entire head of hair can take up to 4 hours to complete.
You can purchase a dread comb online or at a beauty supply store.
If you plan to go out in public before you have finished dreadlocking your hair, you may wish to use rubber bands that are the same color as your hair to create a more natural appearance.
Gels tend to build up on the hair less than heavier products like wax. You can also use some natural, botanical oils with a little bit of a gel. Oil keeps the hair protected before you put the gel on top of it.
Your section of hair should pull apart easily and shouldn’t be painful.
You can apply loc cream to the dreadlock to prevent scalp and hair dryness.
This method of dreadlocking straight hair is also called the neglect or freeform method. Do not style your hair when trying to form dreadlocks using the natural method.
You shouldn’t need to use creams, waxes, or hair products when forming natural dreads.
