Why is shampoo/conditioner bad for dreads?

Some shampoos can be really bad for dreds because they leave residue behind on the hair, which can lubricate the hairs and cause the knots to fall apart. Residue is not a problem for normal hair because normal hair is straight and free flowing, whereas dreads and braids are a little harder to rinse well because they hold residues much easier because of the way it is tightly packed together. The residues can also cause itching and irritation on the scalp because they build up and the scalp cannot breath.

Conditioner will always lubricate the hairs and loosen the dreds, because that's what it's supposed to do.

What is backcombing?

Backcombing is a lot like teasing hair except you leave the hair teased. It is basically pushing the hair towards the scalp.

How often do you back comb dreadlocks?

Usually people only backcomb once, but sometimes they don't push the hair back hard enough when they are backcombing and the knots start to spread out. In this case you will want to backcomb again. You can start at the root and push the knots you have already made towards the scalp.

You can try posting on message boards to see if there is a dread head in your area that would be interested. And if you are interested in helping someone out with their dreads email us and we will recommend you when people email us. You can also check the salons section in the links section for salons in your area.

Do you have to use a metal comb when backcombing?

You don't have to but you will use about 10 plastic combs instead of just one metal comb. The plastic combs just aren't durable enough to push hair back at that force and not break. You will end up with little plastics bristles all throughout your dreads.

What is a dread perm?

A dread perm is when a salon chemically damages your hair to make it hold knots better.