9 Main Pros and Cons of Dreadlocks

Also called dreads or Jata, dreadlocks are usually formed intentionally. But the methods used to create such hairstyle can vary depending on the hair texture.

The roots of dreads can be traced back to North Africa. In ancient Egypt, Egyptians wore locked hairstyles and wigs. This was evidenced by the images found in statuary, bas-reliefs as well as mummified remains of Egyptians with locks were recovered from various archaeological sites.

So, how can you form dreadlocks?

Backcombing is possibly the best way to create dreads, which is also what most salons use. To get the best results, you’ll need the help of a friend as doing it on your own can be particularly difficult.

Backcombing is the method of dividing your scalp into sections. Using a steel-toothed comb, brush the hair from the tip inwards towards the scalp. This makes your hair frizzy and knotted together.

You can also form dreadlocks out of neglect. You can choose to do absolutely nothing with your hair for a long time. This will also cause your hair to be knotted, making it dreadlock ready.

Alternatively, you can buy dreadlock extensions if you want instant dreads. You can opt for this method if you want to see how dreads would look on you.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of having dreadlocks?

List Of Pros Of Dreadlocks

1. Problem with knots.
When you have dreadlocks, you won’t have to worry about having knotted hair. You don’t need to tearfully and painfully comb it out. You’ll even be happier with knots since that way, it will easier to form locks.

2. Fashion statement.
With interlocked hair, you always have a fashion statement that goes with your style. Dreads also make you look fierce yet chill at the same time, no matter what you wear.

3. Confidence booster.
Because dreads make for an excellent fashion statement, you can express your individuality and be comfortable in your own skin. This means that you can be ten times more confident with your locks.

4. Maintenance.
Dreadlocks are virtually maintenance-free because for one, you don’t need to wash your hair that often. Water can loosen and thin out your locks. Washing them every two weeks or longer is more preferable. Overtime, you’ll be able to build your hair’s stamina, which means that you can go longer without washing it.

5. Bad hair days.
Because your hair stays the same day in and day out, you won’t have to worry about bad hair days anymore. This means that you can have great hair every day, whether you’re going to the office or out on a date.

List Of Cons Of Dreadlocks

1. Unwanted attention.
Some people have negative connotations about dreadlocks. This could get you into trouble especially with the authorities. Others could keep away from you because of their wrong notion about dreads.

2. Time-consuming.
You might need a bit more time to make them grow longer. Unless you have long hair before turning them into locks, you’ll have to wait a while to have really long dreads.

3. Hygiene.
Because you can’t wash your hair all the time, lint, fur and other dirt could get stuck in your hair, it could make your scalp itchy.

4. Comfort.
You might find it difficult or uncomfortable to sleep on them during the first few days or weeks. Some people never really grew fond of sleeping on them.

Conclusion

Dreadlocks are a cool thing to sport. But it may not be for everybody. If you can’t stand awkward stares or the stereotyping, then it may not be for you.

Author Bio
Natalie Regoli is a child of God, devoted wife, and mother of two boys. She has a Master's Degree in Law from The University of Texas. Natalie has been published in several national journals and has been practicing law for 18 years.