The Difference Between Synthetic & Natural Dreadlocks

Synthetic Dreadlocks fall into the hair extensions category because the individual locs are attached to your natural hair. This can be accomplished by the extensions being braided or twisted in, from there the style will stay locked in and last for weeks! 

Natural Dreadlocks are when a person’s natural hair is twisted and/or braided through different methods to create dreadlocks! As the hair from the roots continues to grow, the hair is re-twisted every few weeks/months to maintain the style.

Benefits & Who are the Best Candidates

WHY do people get synthetic dreadlocks? 

The reason extensions are a great option to help heal the hair is because while in the style, your natural hair remains virtually undisturbed. So, for those looking to restore their natural curl, grow length, protect from heat, or even wash less, synthetic dreadlocks are a good choice!

Along with protective benefits, synthetic dreadlocks create ease each day when getting ready, since there is little to no styling required! So, if you are someone who LOVES to wear your hair back, or prefers a lower maintenance lifestyle, well then you are a perfect candidate. 

With the versatility provided, you can add only a couple of locs into your hair, or even leave out bangs! Dreadlocks also allow the wearer to incorporate new colors, lengths, gemstones, or even charms to create a truly individual look! 

Prep, Installation & Move Ups

How Should I Prepare my Hair for my Reservation?

Getting any deep conditioning services a week or two before will help nourish and strengthen your hair, plus adding in a baby trim will keep those ends from poking out or splitting.

Don’t forget to ALWAYS consult with your provider on their specific prep regime before instillation! 

How Often are the Move Ups? How Long Will the Hair Last? 

The typical consensus is a 5–6-week period before needing to head back to the salon! Once there make sure you get a healthy trim and nourishing deep condition.

With synthetic dreadlocks being made from plastics and fiber, there is much longer longevity compared to hand-tied weft extensions or tape-ins. In an ideal world, your hair could last forever BUT if you do use heat, color, or cut them too short, well then, it’s time to get a new set!

Maintenance & Know Before You DO

Scalp care is very important when having any type of dreadlock or braided style, synthetic or not! Having a good scalp-balancing shampoo as well as an oil is key, this is going to promote healthy hair growth and provide scalp protection.

While dreadlocks don’t get greasy, they can attract lint or other build-up from just existing in the everyday world. So, it is important to spray down, wipe, and remove anything that could damage the synthetic dreadlocks!

However, wearing synthetic dreadlocks is not recommended for people who struggle with Alopecia or other medical conditions that cause hair loss! The tension required to attach the locs, and the strength required to uphold the extensions could cause issues and unwanted thinning.