The answer to this one varies. It’s partially about choice, and weighing up the pros and cons to decide what suits you.

The pros to lots of dreads are that they can look awesome on some people (depending on the style that you’re going for). However, on the cons, more dreads equals more maintenance.

It’s also important to work with your natural hair volume when creating dreads, especially if they’re going to be permanent. Even sectioning will keep your dreads comfortable long term. This is especially important if you’re using extensions, as too many extensions could cause scalp tension or even traction alopecia.

Although it varies based on the above, as a rough guide, a full head averages somewhere between 40-50 dreads. The best bet is to consult a loctician who can give personalised advice.

Woohoo! Congratulations on your new ‘do. Aftercare is so important and will help your dreads to lock up healthily. Here are some general aftercare tips that apply to all hair types.

We recommend keeping your new dreads as dry as possible for the first 2-4 weeks after installation. This will help to train your hair strands into their new position. Use a swim and shower cap during this time.

One of the best things you can do at home to help your dreads mature evenly is palmrolling. Using downwards pressure as comfortable, roll each dread between your palms until you feel some friction heat. This will also help to ‘set’ your dreads.

Dread wax can help to hold your new dreads in place and to repel water, but it’s important to use the right type of wax and to use it sparingly. This is best applied by an experienced loctician.

At Coast Dread Company we provide a free follow-up session for any new dread types. This is to ensure that any issues are dealt with promptly, and so that we can provide answers to any of your aftercare questions.

Aftercare on new dread extensions is very similar to aftercare for new, natural dreads (see above). In a nutshell, you’ll want to keep them dry for the first few weeks to help your seam ‘set’. Make sure you attend your follow-up session a couple of weeks after installation, so that any issues can be identified and addressed promptly.

If your extensions have been installed temporarily, simply wash as needed and follow the maintenance recommendations for your extension type.

As dread extensions are made from different materials, aftercare will vary. Check out our extensions page for more information on specific maintenance needs for extension types, or consult your loctician.

Washing your dreads and scalp is important. However, it’s vital to ensure that the products you use can be completely rinsed out afterwards, and that your dreads are fully dried before tying them up. Dampness or build-up of residues can contribute to dread rot or scalp irritation, which is no fun for anyone.

We recommend using a clarifying wash or deep soak every few months (ideally prior to a maintenance session) to lift out any deep grime. In between these washes, you can use anything from just water, one of our fabulous Dread Empire Soap Bars, or a more specific Dread Shampoo (may be required if you have a particularly dry, itchy scalp or dandruff).

The Dread Empire light blonde extensions do respond well to purple shampoo, this may neutralise the yellow tone. Use only as needed and as always, ensure they are rinsed well and fully dried. Between purple shampoos be sure to use a good quality dreadlock shampoo to eliminate build up.

Some people find that a natural route is best, and many have found success with Apple Cider Vinegar washes or other ‘No Poo’ methods. We do not recommend using a conditioner on your dreads unless it is a dread-specific leave-in type to help nourish and hydrate your dreads or scalp.

What to use on your dreads is a personal choice and one that will be determined by your skin type. Our advice is to focus on your scalp, and wash the lengths as needed only. Let your scalp guide you in terms of frequency, and check in with your loctician if you have any questions or concerns.

Dreads are one of the oldest hairstyles known, and every hair type can be dreaded! Our crochet twist technique works on all hair types. Some people have naturally knot-free hair, this can make the locking process take a little longer. We recommend letting your loctician know if this sounds like you. It’s likely that they can take a few extra steps on installation to speed the process along.

It is however important to consider your personal ongoing maintenance needs. For example, if you tend to have a particularly oily scalp you may find that more maintenance is required to keep your scalp clean and avoid build-up. This may mean that dreads are a less convenient choice for you. We recommend discussing this with your loctician prior to your dread creation or installation.

In our opinion this should be a short answer - no!

Since the beginning of human evolution, people from all over the world have worn dreads - there is no one place or culture where dreads originated. It is likely that free-form dreads were the original hairstyle for all people, prior to hair brushes and shampoo. Without daily brushing, most peoples’ hair will dread or knot up naturally, so we feel it is absolutely your right to manage and wear your hair as you choose.

It’s definitely worth doing some research yourself to ensure that you are comfortable with your dreads, especially if they’re going to be a permanent choice. Dreads do have a complex, multifaceted history, and people in different cultures have placed different values on the hairstyle. To some, dreads are a sign of oppression and this may have emotional significance. You may inspire a conversation by wearing dreads, so it’s nice to know where you stand.

You may also consider cultural appreciation, especially in the case of extensions. We borrow inspiration from our communities and our own histories and we think dreads look fabulous. It is highly likely that your ancestors wore dreads purely out of convenience, and extensions take this one step further - giving you the look, convenience, and style you’re after sooner rather than later (and with less work!).

Dreads are an entirely personal choice, and they can be an incredibly powerful choice at that. Whatever your reasons for getting dreads, we reckon you’ll find that the dread community welcomes you.

Natural dreads and human hair extensions can be dyed. But, there are some important things to consider before you rush into it.

For your natural dreads, you can use conventional, store-bought dyes. Just remember that due to the nature of dreads, washing out the dye residue can be time consuming (but it’s super important!). Additionally, as with any dye process, results can vary, and it can be hard to correct the colour should the colour be unsatisfactory.

Dreads tend to hold colour for a lot longer than straight hair, as many of the hair strands are tucked away from sun exposure. That being said, we have had great results dying natural dreads!

It can be extra tricky to achieve the desired colour when colouring any type of human hair extension. This is because human hair (unless it’s virgin hair) goes through a chemical process of sanitation, after which it is lightened and permanently dyed. Additionally, it will come from various sources too. While many have achieved fantastic results using home dye kits, our stockists recommend consulting a professional colour specialist if you would like to dye your human hair extensions.

As per the above, we’re unable to accept returns or refunds for extensions which have been dyed.

If you love dreads and would like to make a career out of your passion, we want to help. We will be offering comprehensive loctician training and internships.

We are still finalising our course content, but please get in touch with us now to register your interest so that we can keep you posted.

Many people believe that dreads will pull on your scalp, causing tension. However, with proper sectioning and gentle maintenance, this does not have to be an issue.

In fact, the opposite may be true. Careful sectioning and dreading can help to preserve your hair volume. This is because once your hair is dreaded, it no longer sheds. This means that visible thinning no longer occurs, because each and every hair is retained within your dreads. Moreover, extensions can be installed temporarily or permanently (especially in areas of vigorous hair growth) to increase your overall hair volume. This means that you can finally get the full look you’re after.

We do place great importance on scalp care. Keeping your hair follicles healthy and hydrated will help to promote healthy growth. Scalp massage, botanical serums, and visiting an experienced loctician for your maintenance will help to keep your scalp happy. A happy scalp is the base for strong, healthy dreads.

If you’re experiencing pulling or uncomfortable dreads, consult your loctician. The rate of hair growth across your scalp is unique, and you may need some remedial work to correct issues that arise after your installation.

Alternatively, if your hair is thinning due to genetic reasons or traction alopecia, it may be wise to consider removing, thinning out, or trimming your dreads. Traction alopecia (hair loss due to pulling from a tight hairstyle, braids, or dreads) may become permanent hair loss if not addressed promptly. Once again, listen to your scalp and consult an expert for personalised advice if you’re unsure.

An itchy scalp is the most common complaint of dread-wearers. This can be due to a few factors - the buildup of scalp sebum can cause irritation (or feed true dandruff), or the dreads themselves may be dry or scratchy.

We recommend regular washing to remove build-up on your scalp and dreads. Check out our information on washing (above) for more information. In short, choose non-residue products (ideally, dread-specific), and ensure that your dreads are fully rinsed and completely dried afterwards.

Washing and drying dreads can be a time-consuming process, however ‘regular’ does not necessarily mean frequent. Your scalp type will determine how often you will need to wash your hair - this may be once a week, or once a month (or even less if you’re following the ‘No Poo’ method). Let your scalp and your loctician guide you.

Other ways to relieve itchiness involve nourishing your scalp and conditioning your dreads. We love (and stock) Dread Empire’s Conditioning Spray, and their Botanical Scalp Serum, which can be applied all over the body. Dread-specific balms may also help to soften scratchy dreads. Your scalp will become accustomed to natural dreads over time, and your extensions will soften up as they wear in. If you have further concerns, check in with your loctician for more personalised advice.