Dreadlock Myths - What’s Actually True

Dreadlocks come with more misconceptions than almost any other hairstyle. Here are the most common ones - and what’s actually true.

Myth: Dreadlocks are Dirty

This is probably the most persistent myth about dreadlocks and it’s simply not true.

Dreadlocks get washed regularly - typically every one to two weeks depending on your scalp type and lifestyle. The difference is in the products used. Residue-free shampoo replaces conditioning or moisturising products, which build up inside the dread over time and actually cause the smell people associate with “dirty” dreads.

Well-maintained, properly dried dreadlocks are clean. The smell some people associate with dreads is almost always the result of dreads that haven’t been dried thoroughly - mildew from moisture trapped inside - rather than a lack of washing.

Myth: You Get Dreadlocks by Just Stopping Combing

You can - this is known as the neglect method and it does produce dreadlocks over time. But it’s not the only way, and for most people it’s not the preferred way.

The neglect method produces unpredictable sections, uneven thickness, and a much longer and messier journey to mature dreads. Most people who choose the neglect method end up needing significant work from a dreadlock artist at some point to separate, tidy and manage what has formed.

A crochet-based installation creates clean, intentional sections from the start - giving the hair the foundation it needs to lock well and evenly over time.

Myth: Only Certain Hair Types can Dread

Most hair types can form dreadlocks. The process looks different and takes different amounts of time depending on hair texture, but it is not limited to naturally textured or Afro hair.

Very fine, smooth or straight hair takes longer to lock and requires more patience in the early stages, but with the right approach it absolutely gets there. A salt spray before your appointment helps give fine hair more grip to work with.

Myth: Dreadlocks are Permanent and Can’t be Undone

Dreadlocks can be removed - but it is a significant undertaking. Depending on how mature and tight the dreads are, removal involves cutting or carefully combing them out, which can result in considerable hair loss and often requires cutting the hair quite short afterwards.

It is possible, but it is not quick or easy. This is why it’s worth going into dreadlocks understanding they are a long term commitment rather than a temporary experiment.

Myth: Dreadlocks are High Maintenance

Compared to many other styles, dreadlocks are actually relatively low maintenance once they’re established. The main requirements are regular washing with the right products, thorough drying, and root maintenance every few months.

Where they do require attention is in the early months when the dreads are still forming and need some guidance. Once mature, the maintenance is minimal and straightforward.

If you’re considering organic dreadlocks - whether a full head, a partial installation, or maintenance on existing dreads - I offer dreadlock services from my garden studio in Coomba Park on the NSW Mid North Coast.