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Dreadlocks wearers like to say their hair is misunderstood. For starters, some people think dreadlocks is just long, uncombed hair twisted into thick braids. In truth, it has to be washed and shaped just like any other hairstyle. To get dreadlocks, or the shorter, tighter "baby locs," the wearer must part the hair into sections and then twist or "backcomb" it into place.

Backcombing

Part the hair in sections of small squares using a comb. The sections can be 1 to 2 inches apart, but should be the size the "dreaded" hair will grow into. Hold the sections in place with a rubber band or a hair clip.

Beginning at the scalp, comb the hair backwards. The hair should gather or come together at the roots.

Back comb to the end of your hair and a dread will form. Hold the hair tightly together to form the dread style.

Repeat the action with the other sections until the hair is completely in the "dread" style.

Twisting

Part the hair in small block sections, then hold one section at a time in the palm of your hand. Roll the hair in a circular motion as if you were rolling dough.

Repeatedly twist the hair to form "baby locs." Apply chemical free "loc butter" or "loc gel" to your fingers and twist the hair starting at the scalp.

Repeat the twisting process in all sections until the full head is in dreads.

Tip

To do a two-strand twist, hold the hair in two strands and overlap them to form the twist.

Limit oil use in your hair for the first few months during the dreadlock growing process. Oil could cause the dreadlocks to come loose or not grow properly. If you use an oil, use oils such as jojoba oil, which is a natural moisturizer and is non-greasy.

Warning

While backcombed hair may look like a dreadlock, it will take some time for the hair to completely lock in that shape. If the hair is properly cared for, it should grow out to dreadlocks in as little as four months.

Do not use hair gel that will flake and make your hair appear dull or dirty.