How To Start Dreads With Two Strand Twists

Okay, picture this: you're scrolling through Instagram, mesmerized by all those gorgeous dreadlock hairstyles. You think to yourself, "I want that!" But the journey to magnificent locs can seem like climbing Mount Everest in flip-flops. Fear not, aspiring Rasta, because there's a super chill way to kick things off: two-strand twists!

Ready to start? Gather your supplies! Think of it like prepping for a spa day, but instead of face masks, we're talking hair products. You'll need a good shampoo, a moisturizing conditioner, something to moisturize your hair with (like a leave-in conditioner or hair oil), and clips or rubber bands.

Step 1: Wash and Condition Like a Boss

First things first, give your hair a good scrub-a-dub-dub! Use a clarifying shampoo to get rid of any build-up and follow it with a moisturizing conditioner. Think of it as prepping a canvas for a masterpiece, but the masterpiece is your future dreadlocks.

Let your hair air dry a bit, or use a microfiber towel to gently soak up excess water. You want it damp, not soaking wet.

Step 2: Sectioning – The Key to Loc-tastic Success

Now, for the fun part! Divide your hair into even sections. Use your fingers, a comb, or whatever feels right. The size of your sections will determine the thickness of your eventual locs, so think about what you’re going for.

Smaller sections = thinner locs, larger sections = thicker locs. It’s like choosing between spaghetti and fettuccine – both are pasta, but they offer a different experience!

Step 3: Twist and Shout (But Mostly Twist)

Take one section of hair. Separate it into two equal strands.

Now, twist those strands around each other, like you're creating a tiny little rope. Keep it nice and snug, but not too tight – you don't want to strangle your hair follicles!

Once you reach the end, secure it with a small rubber band or hair clip. Boom! One twist down, a whole head to go. Repeat this process for every section until your whole head is covered in lovely little twists.

This is where your favorite playlist or that true crime podcast comes in handy. Twist time is me-time!

Step 4: Patience, Young Padawan

Now comes the hard part. Leave those twists alone! Seriously, resist the urge to mess with them. The longer you leave them in, the better they'll start to lock up and form the foundation for your dreadlocks.

Think of it as planting seeds – you gotta let them sprout! How long should you leave them in? Anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on your hair type and how quickly it locks.

When you eventually take them out, be prepared for a bit of frizz and some loose hairs. Don't panic! That's totally normal. It just means your hair is starting to lock.

Step 5: Maintenance is Key (Like Watering a Plant)

Once your twists are in, it's important to keep them moisturized. A light spritz of water mixed with a little hair oil can do wonders.

You can also palm roll your twists to encourage locking. This involves gently rolling each twist between your palms. Think of it as coaxing your hair into cooperating.

Retwisting is also important. As your hair grows, you'll need to retwist the new growth at the roots. This helps maintain the shape and neatness of your dreadlocks.

Avoid over-washing your hair, as this can dry it out. Aim for washing every week or two. And avoid using heavy products that can cause build-up.

A Few Extra Tips & Tricks

Listen to your hair! It will tell you what it needs. If it feels dry, moisturize it. If it feels itchy, cleanse your scalp.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different products and techniques. What works for one person might not work for another.

And most importantly, be patient! Growing dreadlocks is a journey, not a destination. Enjoy the process and embrace your unique style.

So there you have it! Starting dreads with two-strand twists is a fun, easy, and relatively low-maintenance way to embark on your loc journey. With a little patience, some TLC, and a whole lot of enthusiasm, you'll be rocking a head full of gorgeous dreadlocks in no time. Go forth and loc!