Aftercare: Natural Dreadlocks

At-Home Dreadlock Aftercare

Congratulations on starting your loc journey! This is the beginning of a unique and beautiful transformation. To help your locs thrive, here's a detailed guide to keep them healthy, clean, and looking amazing from day one.

1. The First Rule: No Water for 2 Weeks

Your new locs need time to set and lock up. Wetting them too early can cause them to loosen or unravel. Here's what you need to know:

Why? Water softens your hair, which is perfect for everyday care- but not for freshly installed locs. Avoid it to help your locs establish their structure.
How long? Keep your locs dry for 2 weeks after installation.

How to Shower Without Getting Them Wet:

Use a shower cap or wrap a scarf/towel around your head.
Be mindful of splashes during baths or showers.

2. Separating Your Locs: Morning Ritual

Locs love to merge and make new friends, but you'll need to keep them separated to maintain their shape and prevent matting.

When: Every morning (or at least daily).
How:

Gently pull each loc apart from its neighbors, especially at the root. Run your finger along your parts to get underneath any crosshairs and pull them apart.
Pay close attention to the back of your head and behind your ears- these areas tangle the most.
Take your time and use clean hands. This should feel relaxing, not painful.

Why: Separation ensures your locs stay defined and prevents them from merging into larger, unwanted sections.

3. Keep Them Clean Without Washing

Since you can't wash them for the first 2 weeks, here's how to maintain cleanliness:

Dry Shampoo: Use a natural, residue-free dry shampoo if your scalp feels oily. Sprinkle or spray it onto your roots, then massage gently and brush off excess with your fingertips.

Scalp care:

Use a damp cloth with diluted apple cider vinegar (ACV) or witch hazel to gently wipe your scalp. This helps keep your scalp clean while avoiding water on your locs.

4. Avoid These No-Nos

Your locs are delicate right now, so avoid:

Products: No waxes, gels, or heavy creams. These can cause buildup and prevent your locs from locking properly.
Pulling or Tugging: Be gentle with your locs to avoid unnecessary tension or breakage.
Heat and Friction: Limit wearing tight hats or sleeping without a proper wrap (or silk/satin pillowcase) to prevent frizz.

5. Protect Your Locs While You Sleep

Nighttime care is just as important as daytime care:

Use a satin or silk scarf/pillowcase. Cotton pillowcases can cause friction and frizz.
Wrap your locs in a soft, breathable scarf or switch to a satin or silk pillowcase.
Braid or Tie Them Loosely: If your locs are long, tie them back loosely to prevent tangling during the night.

6. Embrace the Itch, But Be Gentle

Itching is normal as your scalp adjusts to its new locs. Here's how to soothe it:

Cool Scalp Mists: Make a natural mist with distilled water, aloe vera, and a drop of tea tree or lavender essential oil. Lightly spray your roots (avoid soaking the locs). Not a DIY person? We have Wyld Organics Scalp Remedy spray; a gentle soothing blend of lavender, witch hazel, apple cider vinegar, tea tree and rosemary.
Massage Your Scalp: Use your fingertips to gently massage your scalp in circular motions. This stimulates blood flow and reduces itchiness.

7. Stay Positive and Patient

Your locs are a journey, not a destination. The early weeks are about care and intention. They will evolve and flourish with time, so trust the process! Be consistent with your daily rituals, and your locs will reward you with beauty, strength, and uniqueness.

8. When It's Time to Wash

After the initial 2 weeks, you can start washing your locs with care:

Use a residue-free shampoo designed for locs.
Focus on your scalp. letting the water rinse through your locs without scrubbing them.
Squeeze out excess water and pat dry with a microfiber towel.

Or Let Us Handle It!

Schedule a complex, thorough wash and dry with us at 3 Little Birds North, and let us do the work for you! Our wash service ensures your locs are fresh, clean, and ready to thrive without you lifting a finger.

9. Your First Maintenance Appointment

At the 2-4 week mark, schedule a follow-up with your loctician for a professional checkup. They'll tidy up loose strands, tighten roots, and guide you on the next steps.

10. Stay Grounded and Connected

Locs are a reflection of your journey- be intentional about your care. Incorporate your morning separations into a grounding ritual, celebrate your progress, and lean into the natural beauty of the process.

Remember: Your locs are as unique as you are. With love and patience, they will grow into something truly magical.