Starting Dreads With Short Hair: A Complete Guide

Aug 13, 2025 by RICHARD 50 views

How to Start Dreads with Short Hair: A Beginner's Guide

Hey everyone, so you're thinking about diving into the world of dreadlocks with short hair? Awesome! It's a journey that can lead to an incredibly unique and stylish look. Starting dreads with short hair is totally doable, and it can actually make the whole process of growing out those epic locs much smoother down the road. I'm going to break down everything you need to know, from the initial prep to the different methods you can use, and even some tips to keep your baby locs healthy and happy. Let's get started, shall we?

The Benefits of Starting Dreads with Short Hair

Okay, guys, let's talk about why starting dreads with short hair is such a good idea. First off, it can be a lot less overwhelming. You don't have to deal with the weight and length of longer hair right from the get-go. This can make the initial stages of locking up your hair a lot easier to manage. Plus, it often leads to a more even and consistent dread formation because all the hair is roughly the same length. This can mean fewer issues with unraveling and a more uniform look as your locs mature.

Another big win is that it simplifies the maintenance phase. Short hair dreads are typically easier to wash and dry, which can be a huge time-saver. You won't need to spend hours trying to dry thick, heavy locs, preventing the potential for mold and other issues. It also gives you the opportunity to experiment with different methods without the pressure of a massive hair transformation. You can try a few techniques, see what works best for your hair type and lifestyle, and then adjust accordingly. You might realize that one method works better than the other, which can improve your overall experience. Choosing the right method for your hair type will dictate how your locs look in the future, making it important to learn how your hair reacts to each one. In addition to these practical benefits, starting short can be a great confidence booster. It's a cool, bold statement, and there's something really empowering about embracing a new style, especially when you see the transformation happening right before your eyes. The transformation of your hair in general can have a positive impact on your self-esteem. Seeing your own appearance evolve, and watching it grow out over time, can be an exciting journey that allows you to discover new things about yourself and your personal style. The start is a great way to test the waters and see if dreads are a good fit for you without making a huge, potentially irreversible change. With short hair, you can always decide to change your mind and start over without losing a ton of length. This gives you the freedom to experiment and enjoy the process.

So, whether you're after a low-maintenance style, a unique look, or simply a way to embrace your natural texture, starting with short hair is a fantastic way to get started on your loc journey. Get ready for a fun ride!

Preparing Your Hair: The Key to Success

Alright, before you even think about starting the dreading process, it's super important to prep your hair. This will make all the difference in how your locs form and how healthy they are in the long run. Think of it like building a house: you need a solid foundation! The first step is to detangle and cleanse your hair thoroughly. Make sure your hair is completely free of any knots, tangles, or product buildup. Use a wide-tooth comb to gently work through your hair, section by section. This is crucial because tangles can prevent proper locking and lead to uneven dreads. Next up, give your hair a good wash with a clarifying shampoo. This will remove any oils, dirt, and product residue that could interfere with the locking process. Avoid shampoos that contain sulfates, as they can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. Focus on the scalp and gently work the shampoo through your hair, rinsing thoroughly. After washing, it's time to condition your hair. A moisturizing conditioner will help keep your hair soft and prevent dryness during the locking process. Apply the conditioner to the ends of your hair, avoiding the scalp, and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing. This will add moisture to the hair and give it a healthy start.

Now, let's talk about drying your hair. It's really important to make sure your hair is completely dry before you start the dreading process. Damp hair can lead to uneven dreads and even the growth of mold or mildew. The best option is to air dry your hair, but if you're in a hurry, you can use a hair dryer on a low setting. Make sure to dry each section of your hair thoroughly before moving on to the next step. Now that you've detangled, clarified, conditioned, and dried your hair, you're ready for the final prep step: sectioning. The size of your sections will determine the size of your dreads. Smaller sections will create smaller, more numerous locs, while larger sections will create thicker, more spaced-out locs. Use a comb or your fingers to section your hair into the desired size and shape. You can use rubber bands or clips to hold each section in place. Once your hair is prepped, you will need to keep up with a maintenance routine to make sure it stays healthy. This preparation is vital for ensuring that your journey with dreads is a smooth and successful one. Trust me, these steps will set you up for beautiful, healthy locs!

Methods for Starting Dreads with Short Hair

Okay, now for the fun part: actually starting your dreads! There are several methods you can use, and the best one for you will depend on your hair type, texture, and personal preference. Here's a rundown of the most popular techniques:

The Backcombing Method: This is a classic and widely used technique. It involves backcombing each section of your hair to create knots and tangles, which will eventually lock into dreads. To do this, section your hair, as described above. Then, starting at the root, use a fine-tooth comb to push the hair downwards towards the scalp, creating a ball of tangled hair. Repeat this process until the entire section is backcombed. Once backcombed, you can use a crochet hook to tighten the knots and shape the dreads. This method is a great option for all hair types, but it can be particularly effective for those with straighter hair. The results will be a cleaner, more uniform look. Maintenance is critical here, so that your locs can remain healthy and strong.
The Twist and Rip Method: This method is similar to backcombing but involves twisting each section of hair and then gently ripping it apart to create tangles. Section your hair, twist each section tightly from root to tip, and then gently pull the ends apart to create a tangled ball. This method is ideal for those with coarser or textured hair, as it can create a more natural-looking dread. The twist and rip method is great for those who are looking for a more natural look.
The Two-Strand Twist Method: This method involves twisting two sections of hair together to create a dread. Section your hair and twist two sections together from root to tip. This method works well for all hair types and can result in neat, defined locs. The benefit of this method is that you can still wash your hair throughout the week.
The Crochet Method: This is a technique that involves using a crochet hook to tighten and shape your dreads. This method can be used on any hair type. Once your hair has started to lock, use a crochet hook to pull loose hairs into the center of the dread, tightening and shaping it. Be sure to follow the right process to make sure you're doing it safely to avoid breaking your hair.
The Neglect Method: This is the most natural method, which involves simply letting your hair grow and tangle on its own. Section your hair and allow it to mat and tangle naturally. This method is best suited for those with very textured hair. The best part of this method is that it is low maintenance and allows your hair to do its own thing.

Maintaining Your Short Hair Dreads

Alright, guys, once you've got your baby dreads started, the real work begins: maintenance! Proper care is essential to ensure your locs stay healthy, strong, and looking good. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

Washing Your Dreads: Washing your dreads is crucial, but you need to do it correctly. Wash your locs every 1-2 weeks, depending on your hair type and lifestyle. Use a residue-free, dread-specific shampoo. Dilute the shampoo with water before applying it to your hair. Gently massage the shampoo into your scalp and along the length of your dreads, being careful not to over-manipulate them. Rinse thoroughly to remove all the shampoo. If you use any residue-based shampoo, this could cause your locs to unravel.
Drying Your Dreads: After washing, drying your locs completely is super important to prevent mildew and other nasty stuff. Squeeze out excess water with a towel, then either air dry or use a hair dryer on a low setting. Make sure your locs are completely dry before you go to bed or cover them up. Make sure the air is circulating throughout your locs.
Retwisting Your Roots: As your hair grows, you'll need to retwist the roots of your dreads to keep them neat and tidy. The frequency of retwisting depends on your hair type and how fast your hair grows. Retwist your roots every 4-8 weeks. Use a natural, lightweight gel or wax specifically designed for dreads. Avoid using products that contain alcohol or harsh chemicals, as they can dry out your hair.
Protecting Your Dreads: Protecting your dreads is crucial. Wear a satin or silk bonnet or scarf at night to prevent friction and breakage. This will also help to retain moisture in your locs. Avoid using harsh chemicals or heat styling tools, as they can damage your hair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To wrap things up, here are a few common mistakes to avoid when starting and maintaining your short hair dreads:

Over-manipulation: One of the biggest mistakes is over-manipulating your locs. Avoid twisting, pulling, or tugging on your dreads too much, especially when they're new. This can loosen the locs and cause them to unravel. Let them do their thing, guys! Be patient.
Using the Wrong Products: Using the wrong products can also be a problem. Avoid using shampoos, conditioners, or styling products that contain harsh chemicals, sulfates, or alcohol. These ingredients can strip your hair of its natural oils, making it dry and brittle. Stick to natural, residue-free products that are specifically designed for dreads.
Not Washing Enough: Not washing your dreads enough can lead to a buildup of dirt, oil, and product residue, which can weigh down your locs and make them look dull. Wash your locs regularly. Follow the recommendations above.
Not Drying Completely: Not drying your locs completely can lead to mildew, mold, and other issues. Make sure your locs are completely dry after washing. Let them air dry or use a hair dryer on a low setting.

Starting dreads with short hair is an exciting journey, and it's totally doable! With the right preparation, the right methods, and consistent maintenance, you'll be well on your way to rocking a unique and stylish look that suits you perfectly. So, go for it, and embrace the journey!