Braid Styles For Dreads: Best Looks & How-Tos

Dreadlocks, also known as locs, are a beautiful and versatile hairstyle that can be styled in many ways. Braiding is a popular method for styling dreads, offering both aesthetic appeal and protective benefits. Whether you're looking to add a touch of elegance, protect your locs, or try a new look, braids are an excellent choice. This guide will explore various braid styles for dreads, provide step-by-step instructions, and offer tips for maintaining healthy locs.

Why Choose Braids for Dreadlocks?

Braiding dreadlocks offers several advantages:

• Protection: Braids help protect the ends of your locs from damage and breakage.
• Style Versatility: Braids can be styled in numerous ways, from simple plaits to intricate patterns.
• Growth Promotion: Braiding can help promote length retention by minimizing manipulation and friction.
• Low Maintenance: Braided styles can last for several weeks, reducing the need for daily styling.

Preparation Before Braiding

Before braiding your dreadlocks, proper preparation is essential to ensure the health and longevity of your style. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Cleanse Your Locs: Wash your dreadlocks with a residue-free shampoo to remove buildup and dirt. This ensures your hair is clean and fresh before braiding.
2. Condition Your Locs: Apply a moisturizing conditioner specifically designed for dreadlocks. Leave it on for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly. Conditioning helps to hydrate your locs, preventing dryness and breakage.
3. Dry Your Locs: Gently towel-dry your dreadlocks to remove excess water. You can also use a microfiber towel to minimize frizz. Ensure your locs are mostly dry before braiding, as braiding wet hair can lead to mildew and damage.
4. Moisturize Your Locs: Apply a lightweight oil or leave-in conditioner to your locs to maintain moisture. Focus on the ends, as they are more prone to dryness. Hydrated locs are less likely to break during the braiding process.
5. Detangle Your Locs: Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle any knots or tangles in your locs. Be patient and work in small sections to avoid pulling or breaking your hair.

Tools You’ll Need

To achieve the perfect braided look, gather these essential tools:

• Wide-tooth comb
• Hair clips
• Rubber bands or hair ties (preferably snag-free)
• Hair oil or leave-in conditioner
• Braid gel or cream (optional, for extra hold)
• Styling mousse (optional, for added definition)

Popular Braid Styles for Dreadlocks

1. Classic Three-Strand Braids

The classic three-strand braid is a simple yet elegant style that works well for dreadlocks of any length. It’s easy to create and maintain, making it a great option for beginners.

How to Do It

1. Divide a section of your dreadlocks into three equal strands.
2. Cross the right strand over the middle strand.
3. Cross the left strand over the new middle strand.
4. Continue braiding in this pattern until you reach the end of the loc.
5. Secure the end with a rubber band or hair tie.
6. Repeat the process for the remaining locs.

2. Cornrows

Cornrows are a timeless and versatile braiding style that involves braiding the hair close to the scalp. This style is excellent for protecting your locs and can be styled in various patterns and designs.

How to Do It

1. Part your dreadlocks into the desired sections for the cornrows.
2. Start at the hairline and divide a section into three small strands.
3. Begin braiding by crossing the right strand over the middle strand, then the left strand over the new middle strand.
4. As you braid, add more hair from the section to each strand.
5. Continue braiding until you reach the end of the section.
6. Secure the end with a rubber band or hair tie.
7. Repeat the process for the remaining sections.

3. Fishtail Braids

Fishtail braids are a beautiful and intricate style that adds a touch of sophistication to your dreadlocks. This braid style may seem complicated, but it’s relatively easy to master with practice.

How to Do It

1. Divide a section of your dreadlocks into two equal strands.
2. Take a small piece from the outer side of the right strand and cross it over to the left strand.
3. Take a small piece from the outer side of the left strand and cross it over to the right strand.
4. Continue braiding in this pattern until you reach the end of the loc.
5. Secure the end with a rubber band or hair tie.
6. Repeat the process for the remaining locs.

4. Twisted Braids

Twisted braids, also known as rope braids, are a stylish and straightforward option for dreadlocks. This style involves twisting two strands of hair together to create a braid-like appearance.

How to Do It

1. Divide a section of your dreadlocks into two equal strands.
2. Twist each strand individually in the same direction (either clockwise or counterclockwise).
3. Twist the two strands together in the opposite direction.
4. Continue twisting until you reach the end of the loc.
5. Secure the end with a rubber band or hair tie.
6. Repeat the process for the remaining locs.

5. French Braids

French braids are a classic style that can be adapted for dreadlocks. This braid style involves braiding the hair close to the scalp, similar to cornrows, but with a different braiding technique. — Texas Vs. England: A Size Showdown

How to Do It

1. Part your dreadlocks into the desired sections for the French braids.
2. Start at the hairline and divide a section into three small strands.
3. Begin braiding by crossing the right strand over the middle strand, then the left strand over the new middle strand.
4. As you braid, add more hair from the section to each strand, picking up hair from both sides.
5. Continue braiding until you reach the end of the section.
6. Secure the end with a rubber band or hair tie.
7. Repeat the process for the remaining sections.

Creative Braid Styles for Dreadlocks

Braided Updo

An elegant updo can be achieved by braiding your dreadlocks and arranging them into a stylish bun or other updo. This style is perfect for special occasions or when you want to keep your hair off your neck.

How to Do It

1. Braid your dreadlocks using any of the braiding styles mentioned above.
2. Gather the braided locs and arrange them into a bun or updo.
3. Secure the style with hairpins.
4. Add accessories like beads or decorative pins for a personal touch.

Braided Mohawk

A braided mohawk is a bold and edgy style that can be created by braiding the sides of your dreadlocks and leaving the center section loose or styled in spikes.

How to Do It

1. Part your dreadlocks into three sections: a center section and two side sections.
2. Braid the side sections using cornrows or French braids.
3. Secure the ends of the braids with rubber bands or hair ties.
4. Style the center section as desired – you can leave it loose, twist it, or create spikes.
5. Use hair gel or mousse to hold the style in place.

Braided Crown

A braided crown is a regal and sophisticated style that involves braiding your dreadlocks around your head to create a crown-like effect.

How to Do It

1. Part your dreadlocks into two sections.
2. Braid each section using a three-strand braid or French braid.
3. Wrap the braids around your head, starting from the front.
4. Secure the braids with hairpins, tucking the ends underneath.
5. Adjust the braids to create a balanced and even crown.

Maintaining Your Braided Dreadlocks

Moisturize Regularly

Keeping your dreadlocks moisturized is crucial, especially when they are braided. Use a lightweight oil or leave-in conditioner to hydrate your locs and prevent dryness.

Cleanse Your Scalp

Cleanse your scalp regularly to remove buildup and maintain a healthy environment for hair growth. Use a gentle shampoo and focus on cleansing the scalp without over-washing the braids.

Protect Your Hair at Night

To prevent frizz and maintain the braids, sleep with a satin scarf or bonnet. This will reduce friction and keep your braids looking neat.

Avoid Over-Tightening

When braiding your dreadlocks, avoid pulling too tightly, as this can cause breakage and damage to the hair follicles. Ensure the braids are snug but not overly tight. — NHL Season Games: Your Hockey Guide

Limit Styling Products

Using too many styling products can lead to buildup and make your braids look dull. Use products sparingly and opt for lightweight options.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Depending on the braid style and your hair growth, you may need to redo your braids every 4-8 weeks. Regular maintenance helps to keep your dreadlocks healthy and your style looking fresh.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Braiding Wet Hair

Braiding wet dreadlocks can lead to mildew and damage. Always ensure your locs are mostly dry before braiding.

Over-Tightening Braids

Over-tightening braids can cause breakage and damage to the hair follicles. Braid your locs snugly but not excessively tight.

Neglecting Scalp Care

Neglecting scalp care can lead to buildup and scalp issues. Cleanse your scalp regularly and moisturize as needed.

Using Heavy Products

Using heavy products can weigh down your dreadlocks and lead to buildup. Opt for lightweight products that won’t clog your hair.

Leaving Braids in Too Long

Leaving braids in for too long can lead to matting and breakage. Schedule regular maintenance to keep your locs healthy.

FAQ About Braid Styles for Dreads

How long can I keep braids in my dreadlocks?

Braids can typically be kept in dreadlocks for 4-8 weeks, depending on your hair growth and the style. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent matting and breakage.

Can braiding damage my dreadlocks?

If done correctly, braiding is a protective style that can promote hair growth. However, over-tightening or leaving braids in for too long can cause damage.

How often should I wash my braided dreadlocks?

Wash your braided dreadlocks every 1-2 weeks to maintain scalp health and prevent buildup. Use a residue-free shampoo and focus on cleansing the scalp. — Top High-Paying Jobs You Can Land Without Experience

What products should I use on braided dreadlocks?

Use lightweight oils, leave-in conditioners, and moisturizing sprays to keep your dreadlocks hydrated. Avoid heavy products that can cause buildup.

How can I prevent frizz in my braided dreadlocks?

Sleep with a satin scarf or bonnet to reduce friction and prevent frizz. You can also use a lightweight mousse or braid cream to smooth the braids.

Conclusion

Braiding dreadlocks is a fantastic way to protect your locs, add style versatility, and promote healthy hair growth. With various braiding styles to choose from, you can express your personality and keep your dreadlocks looking fabulous. Remember to prepare your locs properly, maintain them regularly, and avoid common mistakes to ensure the health and longevity of your braided style. Experiment with different styles, and enjoy the beauty and versatility of braided dreadlocks!