DreadLocks - A unique hair style. There are a number of ways to make Dread Locks.

TIPS * Braid in your mind before braiding with your hands. * Close your eyes and concentrate. Working intuitively. * Work with damp hair,more manageable when you’re braiding. * Get your locks in sea water letting them dry in the sun. *Choose : coated bands * Use wax occasionally to condition them if they feel dry. * Do not submit your dreadlocks to: Conditioners *Once you've mastered one style, you will have the skill to attempt others. * The more you twist and roll your dreads between you fingers and palms, the faster they will tighten. As your dreadlocks mature, maintenance is less.     Braids can be worn by all ages, even with chin-length hair.Good dreadlocks are usually ready in about 4 or 5 weeks. If you don't wash or comb, hoping for dreadlocks, it usually takes 7 to 8 months!.Wax will keep them clean and good looking while they are locking. Wash them about every 5 days. Put a pantyhose over your head while you wash them for the first few weeks. This will keep the locks from loosening. Once you've mastered one style, you will have the skill to attempt others.

Dreadlocks:

Hair should always be washed, deep conditioned, and scalp should be oiled before beginning the process. Locking can begin on either wet or dry hair. If you begin with wet hair you will need to sit under a hair dryer or hang out in the sun to allow locks to set.

Sectioning the hair

Section the hair before applying a locking technique. Section the hair (as if you were going to make small individual braids), in the thickness of the locks you desire. If you want thin locks make sure the braids are parted small (medium to large parts for thicker locks). Keep in mind that they expand with maturity. It can take at least a month or two to show results.

Washing

Be gentle when washing, as they tend to unravel with movement. If using a conditioner, try a leave-in product. You should oil the scalp, usually 2-3 times a month.You may want to use a deep cleansing shampoo every 6 weeks.

Coloring

Coloring can result in breakage over time as it's too difficult to wash all the dye out. Why not squeeze a few lemons and rub the juice into the dreadlocks, then get into the sun. In tie you will get some lightening

Techniques

The standard English style - three strands of equal size, crossed back and forth to form a simple ponytail braid.

Braiding

The hair should be long enough to braid. Section the hair in the desired size locks you require Create small individual braids. Depending on hair length, you may need a sticking agent; shorter hair may require bees wax or gel

Comb Twists

Used for very short hair. Place the comb at the scalp twisting the hair downwards using the teeth of the comb.This should last for several weeks depending on the length of your hair. May need a re-twist after a few weeks.

Finger Twisting

Hair should be at least half an inch. Section the hair, add a small amount of a Dreadlock styling product to the sectioned hair, twirl it around your finger until it makes a coil You may want to wear a scarf on your head overnight to insure the locks are kept from "frizzing".

Palm Rolls

Hair at least three inches. Add a small amount of a Dreadlock styling product on the sectioned hair Place it between the palms of both your hands and move your hands back and forth, forming a spiral.

Two-Strand Twists

At least two inches of hair is needed . Double-strand twist the hair, where you need three strands. The twists look similar to a rope.

Hairstyles
If you have long hair you can play with dozens of braid styles.

• Create a simple English braid, and coil it around your finger. Tuck the end of the braid under the coil, and secure it to the back of your head. This is called an “English braid with chignon.”
• The “Dutch braid” similar to English braid, but the three, equal in size strands of hair are crossed under, rather than over, one another.
• The classic “French braid” one of the most sophisticated and popular. Start with a center section of hair, divide it into three strands. As you braid, you add new strands gathered from both sides of your head. The finished braid rests flat against your head and is secured at the bottom.
• The “Invisible French braid” The hanging braid is folded upward and pinned to your scalp.
• The “Accent Braid”A single, thin braid, positioned on one side of your head. Select three thin strands from one side of your hair and braid them. Secure the braid at the bottom and let it rest against your loose hair.
• The “Princess Braid” Dates back to the 14th century!. You create two English braids, one on each side of your head, pigtail style, and coil them. Fix the coils to your scalp with hairpins.
• Cornrows The most trendy style among African-American women. Cornrows tend to remain in the hair for a long time, due to the amount of time needed to create them.

Why not work ribbon or yarn into your braids. Add hair jewels for special occasions.

Please keep those mail's coming with new techniques and ideas to share with others