Dreadlocks, dreads, locks, locs — whatever your term of choice for them may be — are essentially sections of hair that haven't been combed, brushed, or handled at all, according to celebrity hairstylist Lavette Slater.
As Going Natural reported, the core difference between the two is that one is a hairstyle and the other is a lifestyle, according to some people who wear their hair this way.
They represent a connection to Africa and a rejection of the West, which they term Babylon. Dreadlocks represent a renewed sense of pride in African physical characteristics and Blackness, which ties in with their belief about keeping things natural.
Dreadlocks, also known as locs or dreads, are rope-like strands of hair formed by locking or braiding hair.
Dreadlocks — preferentially known as "locs" — are a popular hairstyle that includes sections of hair that have been matted and knotted together to create a rope-like appearance.
Traditional locs are meant to last a lifetime, while faux locs can be styled to last for four to six weeks. Faux locs can be an easier styling choice for anyone looking for less of a permanent commitment.
This is temporary protective style similar to box braids whereas loc extensions are intended to be a permanent extension of your hair.
Dreadlocks are essentially matted hair, which has the potential to trap odors quicker than loose hair, but this doesn't mean that dreads smell bad or they're doomed to eventually smell bad. If you don't know how to care for your dreads properly, your dreads could end up with an offensive smell.
If you have mature dreads, make sure to wash them at least once every week. During the rest of the days when you take a shower, you can use a shower cap that's extra-large to protect them from the humidity.
Like Africa, Egypt has a rich history of dreadlocks dating back to as far as 3100 BC. Ancient Egyptian sculptures, statues, and other archeological discoveries in the region over the years have provided evidence of dreadlocks' historical roots in ancient Egypt.
Locs represent a devotion to purity, and since the locs are found around the head and face it acts as a constant spiritual reminder to its owner that they own force, wisdom, and are expected to generate goodness onto themselves and others. Shiva. In Hindu culture Shiva was said to have “Tajaa,” twisted locs of hair.
DREAD LOCS was originally referring to black hair worn “locked” and the people who called the style so believed the hair was dirty, unkempt and dreadful!!!!!!!!!
Dreads have always been worn to make a statement. For many, they're spiritual and they symbolize the letting go of material possessions. For others, they're political and a way to rebel against conformity and the status quo. Some just like the way they look.
Well, I'm here to tell you, yes, dreadlocks can be combed out, especially ones that have been properly cared for during their life, including regular shampooing and conditioning. This is very important! If you decide to comb out your 'locks, it's critical that you approach the process with much patience.
Generally speaking, it could take anywhere from 10 months to two years to get to the maturest stage of locs." The process of hair "locking" and the process of these locs maturing are different.
If you're new to the world of dreadlocks—or locs, as they're often called—then you need to know what you're dealing with before deciding that they're the hair leap you want to take next. They're high-maintenance at first, so you should know what you're getting into.
What is the cost of getting new dreads? Many salons charge a flat rate of $300 for the first six hours and $50 to $60 for each extra hour. Many people get average size locks, and the work normally takes about 6 hours to complete.
To help keep Black hair healthy, dermatologists recommend the following tips: Wash your hair once a week or every other week. This will help prevent build-up of hair care products, which can be drying to the hair. Use conditioner.
That being said, a typical retwist should/could last anywhere from 4-6 weeks. But again, it will depend on how you take care of your locs. Your retwist can last longer, it can even last for months, if you make all the right moves to make your retwist last longer.
Chemical changes: When dreads come in contact with chemicals like hydrogen peroxide and chlorine, they begin to lose their shine, luster, and natural color – this can cause them to appear dirty. Chemical dyes are also not recommended for dreads because they dull your dreads, making them look dirty over time.
Dreadlocks are only unhealthy if the person doesn't care for them properly. Often, they are able to begin the hairstyle at home but don't research how to maintain it once it's finished. Yet, if the person properly washes, dries, and cares for their hair, it will be healthy.
This statement remains true with dreads. Dreadlocked hair is not inherently dirty if its well cared for. In fact, clean hair knots better and faster than dirty hair does. For this reason, many people with dreads go the extra mile to keep their locs clean.
Locs promote great hair growth with minimal shedding.
Because your hair is in a permanent protective style—and you won't have to manipulate your hair often—there is much less wear and tear on your strands. Your hair is free to simply grow and thrive.
The good ole “do dreadlocks grow faster” confusion. At first glance this may seem like the case, but it's really not and no matter how much evidence seems to prove otherwise, locs do not inherently grow faster than any other style of natural hair.
Locs for some aren't just a hairstyle, but a lifestyle, and in many cases a spiritual decision. Some people who decide to commit to locs see it as a lifetime commitment and it's a style they know they want forever. But, that is just one approach, and it's a deeply personal one.