While some people may use both terms interchangeably, . The other difference locs have, as opposed to dreadlocks, is that the roots of the hair are defined and can be seen, and they form a pattern that shows parts of the scalp. Knotty Boy Lockstead Tropical Tightening Gel $15.00. Locs have also been worn by these cultures, because of the belief that they represent strength, power, the control of energy, and connection to higher spirits, similar to Rastafarian beliefs. Theyre matted and locked sections of hair that are not easy to remove. You've just added this product to the cart: Start typing to see products you are looking for. Some dreadlocks styles are created by simply allowing textured, uncombed hair to bunch and naturally knot together to develop into locked shapes over the years others are . Hair loss due to natural shedding within the locs over time, Frizz and brittle, straw-like hair texture, Split, fragile ends that may need to be cut off. With dreads, your hair is matted into thick, rope-like locks. The "dread" people felt when they saw East African guerilla warriors, supporters of Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie (aka Ras . Garvey His Work and Impact. The tool locks the hair by creating hundreds of tiny knots along different lengths. So should we all. Dreadlocks, on the other hand, are also a hairstyle, but they are popularly known to be worn by those who follow the Rastafarian religion, like Bob Marley. Locs are considered to be simply a hairstyle made by tying hair tightly together. Vic Dicara of, Left to its own devices, hair will naturally knot together and form mats or dreadlocks., Dreadlocks dont require manipulation to get started. Leaving 3-strand twists in for 2-6 months will jumpstart dreadlock formation. Consider this guide Dreadlocks 101. What were trying to get at here is the power of language, the power it has over the way we perceive ourselves, the way we perceive the world and the way the world perceives us. Residue-free shampoo is key for keeping locs clean. There is a common misconception that dreadlocks are dirty. Use your favorite hair oil (coconut, argan, olive, etc.) Overtime, the hair will continue to matt and form dreads on its own. ____________.(Ed). The hairstyle was demonised and anyone wearing dreadlocks was suspicious, a potential thief, definitely a drug addict whose mother was fervently praying for his deliverance. Even the name is controversial, having negative and colonial connotations. Avoid sudsing up your dreads too much as the shampoo can be tough to fully remove from the locs. Dreadlocks, also locs, dreads, or in Sanskrit, Ja, are rope-like strands of hair formed by locking or braiding hair.Dreadlocks are controversial and commonly a flashpoint of cultural appropriation, but the style is demonstrably global and ancient and multicultural. Imagine sections of your hair all knotted up and tied together with a matte finish or look when you think of dreadlocks as a hairstyle. But how significant is the term dreadlock to someone who isnt Jamaican and is more interested in relating to their locs through a different lens, which relates to their choices, concepts of beauty, and personal history and/or community? Finally, we have twists, which are created similarly to dreads in the sense that two strands of the hair are separated, but in the case of twists, the two separate strands are commonly braided together and without the use of an adhesive. Please follow us on our social media channels at @locsanity and leave us a fantastic review. In here, Ive explained how Viking locs and dreads differ and why dreadlocks can now be an offensive term. Learning the basics of dreadlock maintenance and care will help you avoid these common problems with ease. 10800 Alpharetta Hwy, Roswell, GA, 30076, Working Days/Hours:Monday - Friday 9:30am - 2:00pm EST. This hairdo not only lasts months but also looks great while doing so, which is why many people choose it as their go-to for low-maintenance styles. The biggest difference between dreadlocks and locs is quite simple. Chevannes, B. At that time, you did not wear dreadlocks to be cute or have long hair. If you properly form and maintain your dreadlocks, they wont ruin your hair. They claimed this fear, this notion of danger. Once youve wrung out your locs with a towel, keep them separated as much as possible. Let's dig into the differences so you can decide which term is correct for your hair type. Mohawk Dreads. 4. 5. The truth is that while dreads arent as maintenance-heavy as other hairstyles, you still have to take time to maintain and care for them if you want them to look, feel, and smell their best. With my PhD focused on gender equality in Rastafari, I am into black women representations in mass Media. Youll need the following products to properly maintain and care for your dreads. Watch popular content from the following creators: Tyra Blizzard(@tblizzy), Rosie Thorns(@rosie_the_homie), Ruby Todman(@scoobytodman), Maranda Sharee Turner(@marandasharee) . No, its no secret, were not in love with chemicals and what they do to our bodies, hair and our planet. The major distinguishing factor of dreads and locs is that one is a hairstyle while the other is a lifestyle. Spray every few minutes as you work to keep the loc wet. When it comes to comparison of dreads and Viking locs, people often mistake one for the other. You can achieve this using various methods, including backcombing, interlocking, and even naturally. Tea tree oil works like magic here in this situation and removes grease, oil, dirt, and foul odor from hair. Both are unique hairstyles that not only prevent the hair from losing moisture but also help to promote stronger hair and minimize any shedding from the scalp. After about 6 months, the twisted/coiled pattern in the twists will begin to disappear as the hair successfully mats up. The hairstyle was designed to shock, to inspire awe, to represent the havenots and it worked. Until the day be fulfilled of his consecration to the Lord, he shall be holy, and shall let the hair of his head grow. If youre interested in learning how to start any of the following types of locs, check out our complete step-by-step guide here:How to Get Dreads | 4 Ways to Start Dreadlocks. One of the most common misconceptions about dreadlocks is that they dont require any maintenance just loc and go! She believes her most underrated articles are her hair care tips! Dreadlocks can be seen as a sign of strength, a bold sign of self-expression, and a way for people to connect to their roots, identity, and culture. It's hard to tell who had them first, because early humans, lacking combs or styling products . Cotton towels work well, but can leave lint behind in your hair. Jamaican Rastafarians, also known as Rastas, are well known for their religious beliefs and their sacred dreadlocks. You should never use heat to dry your locs. You will receive a link to create a new password via email. Your scalp is where the bacteria, fungus, oil, and dirt thrive. Hi Im Nathalie, I am a nerdy mother of two, in need of a nap. Locking Gel: https://www.greatlocs.com/product/locking-gel/https://www.greatlocs.com/00:00 History Of Dreads00:39 Hateful Comments01:40 The Truth02:29 Are th. Concentrate on cleaning every square inch of your scalp, using minimal shampoo and lots of water. This is important to consider before you get dreads. The wool is rubbed against the hair in a circular motion until small locs begin to form. Start Here Hair Care Styling Dreadlocks 101 | Everything You Need to Know About Locs, Written by: Author Debra Carpenter |Reviewed by: Editorial Team, Posted on Last updated: November 10, 2022. Getting an inch or more cut off the ends will really polish the look and give you that healthy, vibrant hair with lots of movement that you want. 2. Though we too can master language, the way we speak, to phrases we use and the terms we relate to in order to sustain a positive and healthy outlook on life. Registering for this site allows you to access your order status and history. In terms of convenience, the maintenance of dreadlocks is often far less complicated than other hairstyles, requiring less frequent styling and visits to the salon. 20 Congo dreads (bongo) hairstyles for ladies and men in 2023. Low-maintenance doesnt mean no maintenance. This results in a unique hairdo, consisting of an array of twists, turns, coils and various sized strands, with some having more structure than others. The health benefits of natural hair in dreadlocks cannot be underestimated either. Matt vs Dreadlocks. From what dreadlocks are and their history to how to properly care for and maintain modern locs, weve got you covered. There is also a physical difference between the two hairstyles. At that time, you did not wear dreadlocks to be cute or have long hair You wore dreadlocks because you were defiant, you believed that HIM Haile Selassie was God, you believed that all Afrodescendants should be repatriated to an African country with reparations. Final Thoughts. When it comes to styling natural hair, many people often wonder whether dreads or twists are better. You can use multiple methods to form locs. Keeping your dreads looking great is easier with a few basic products. However, this style can also be changed by decorating the separate strands, such as adding colored hair extensions, clasps, charms, and other hair accessories. No matter the race, you will find a connection to having dreadlocks for spiritual reasons., Having a spiritual connection to hair is one of the most notable differencesbetween dreadlocks and locs. It would be stupid to me to be offended by the term dreadlocks. Locs/dreadlocks meant that you were a rasta and brought shame to your family as you would be unable to integrate polite society. How has it shaped your life, language and locs? Jamila Powell, owner, and founder of Maggie Rose Salon, told Byrdie.com, You can start locs with a two-strand twist, comb twist, or with an interlocking method. Because this style seemingly relies on texture to maintain its distinctive consistency, it will always differ depending on the individual. A TikToker has gone viral for demonstrating why white people shouldn't wear dreadlocksbut it's not for the reasons one might think. The truth is, both are great options and The truth is, it all depends on preferences, lifestyle and the amount of desired maintenance. Freeform dreads are as authentic as it gets, but their irregularity makes them less popular than other types of dreadlocks. With that said, its 100% possible to remove dreads without damaging or cutting your hair. The history of dreadlocks, understandably, is complex. On the other hand, dreadlocks are an intentional hairstyle, often achieved through maintenance and meticulous sectioning of the hair into pointed ropelike formations. However, knowing the differences between these two options can help guide someone to choosing the right style that best suits them and their particular needs. Freeform dreadlocks are matted locs of hair that form naturally due to friction and tangling when the hair is not brushed or detangled for long periods of time. To palm roll your dreads, just take a single loc and quickly roll it back and forth in your palms. As much as we need to be confident and supportive of ourselves, we cannot just exist within the willful misconceptions of other people. Dreadlocks can form irregular flat, matted sections that are wide and thin (typical of freeform dreads) or cylindrical, rope-like sections that are rounded and somewhat uniform (typical of finger coil or similar-style locs). Haile Selassie on the cover of the Time magazine of November 1930. Youve read this beginners guide and by now, youve got this thing on. If youre interested in learning how to start any of the following types of locs, check out our complete step-by-step guide here: How to Get Dreads | 4 Ways to Start Dreadlocks. Another huge benefit is that with sisterlocks, you can keep your relaxed ends (as long as you have 11/2 inches of naturally textured new growth.) But wax products are actually the enemy to forming clean, shapely, and lightweight locs. The reasons the Vikings wore dreadlocks isn't clear, but it was likely due to practical and cultural reasons. Dreadlocks are real. According to history, the colonists found the coiled hair dreadful which led to the term dreadlocks. Moisturizing dread creams are essential to keep dreadlocks hydrated and supple while avoiding breakage and frizz. Enjoy! There are many benefits to wearing this type of natural hairstyle. Some people prefer to remove dreadlocks using the teeth of a metal comb or the handle of a rat tail comb. He saw in the latter the Messiah for afro descendants and quickly created autonomous communes for the economical, spiritual and social emancipation of Jamaicans. With certain textures, your hair will only partially lock up, creating a harsh mixture of dreaded and straight or wavy hair. Although some sites say this can take as little as a few weeks, it more commonly takes closer to 2 - 3 years for all your hair to lock up using this method. The following is the historical point that most of us at the time failed to understand. When youre done shampooing, the next step is properly drying your locs. Biologically hair helps us to regulate body temperature. Also called locking accelerator, a good dread tightening spray is key to forming and maintaining nice locs. Consider this before you choose this type of loc! To sum it up, it is clear that dreads and dreadlocks are two different terms. Many people start the brushing out process by cutting the dreads to a shorter, more manageable length. Dreads and locks are different from each other in a matter of perception and personal expression. By using the correct terminology, we can ensure that the history and culture behind this hairstyle is celebrated and respected. Are dreads or twists better for natural hair. Required fields are marked *, Please note, comments must be approved before they are published, Address: These days, though, the dreadlocked hairstyle has also been adopted by many alternative cultures. Is OGX Good For Your Hair? In some cases, having dreadlocks can save time in the morning when it comes to maintaining your hair. 3: Cost For this reason, many would argue that dreads should not be used to describe a style of hair at all. One of the founders of Hair Everyday and Chief Editor, Leah enjoys reviewing all the hair products and showcasing the best. Shampooing dreads is essential to keep them clean and stop them from harboring bacteria, fungus, and dirt. locs or dreadlocks, how you wear your hair is a personal decision that everyone should respect. The downside is that the locs formed by 3-strand braids are flatter and less cylindrical than traditional locs. Source: @los_cut_it via Instagram. As an adjective matt is an alternative spelling of lang=en. Within a year of no brushing, youre going to see matted, dreadlocked sections in your hair. After combing out all your dreads, youll need to shampoo and. Dreadlocks are actually an example of a protective hairstyle. 1. A quick search for the origin of dreadlocks will result in multiple hits from different sources, all of which have a common conclusion: readlocks have been around for years among countless civilizations and different people. Dreadlocks are ropes of hair. But for those who wear their hair in these sculpted ways, there is a difference between Dreads vs Locs hairstyles that go beyond their appearance. Youll need a clarifying shampoo that leaves your hair squeaky clean. Ultimately, the choice of which style to choose is up to each individual, and should be based on what works best for their natural hair type, lifestyle, and preference. Dreadlocks can be created using processes, which includes interlocking the hair or by palm rolling the hair. These processes will matt the hair in a particular style. This starts with having the right arsenal of products, maintenance methods, and care tips. The earliest written reference of locks is found in Vedic scriptures, holy Hindu texts dating back to 1500BC, in which Lord Shiva's hair is . You can go up to 3 weeks in between washes if youre not breaking a sweat regularly or getting your hair dirty. If youre thinking about getting dreadlocks, there are a few things you should keep in mind to help you make your decision. Knowing this upfront is important. Dreadlocks, also known as locs, are a hairstyle that consists of rope-like strands that are achieved by braiding or interlocking the hair. Some experts believe this is where the term dreadlocks came from. Section off your hair by tying them up with rubber bands at the roots. A quick search for the origin of dreadlocks will result in multiple hits from different sources, all of which have a common conclusion: dreadlocks have been around for years among countless civilizations and different people. ___________. We will only ask you for information necessary to make the purchase process faster and easier. If you have noticed, the loc hairstyle comes out cleaner and prettier than dreadlocks that appear more relaxed and somewhat fuzzy. We recommend using a good microfiber lintless towel instead. After combing out your dreads, youll likely find that some of the ends are still straggly or split. Hey, loc fam! Some people prefer to remove dreadlocks when the hair is dry while others prefer working on damp or wet hair slathered in conditioner. They wanted to be dangerous, not towards normal people but to the colonial authorities. Amongst the fancy dreadlocks styles for ladies, this can be regarded as one of the classiest. Insert it about 2 inches from where the loose hair is. 2,500 BCE. Step 3: Section hair and braid. But regardless of the outcome, you can be sure that your decision will give you a hairstyle that will last and last and last! Noun (but usually in singular) (label) A pigmented filament of keratin which grows from a follicle on the skin of humans and other mammals. Braid each section and secure them at the ends with more elastics. Dreads form naturally when. Dreadlocks and locs are different in forming, maintaining . Move upward to the roots as you untangle the hair. Dreads and Viking locs, although share some similarities, the two styles actually have a few distinct differences. Discover short videos related to matt locks vs dreadlocks on TikTok. This usually takes a day or two, depending on the length and thickness of your locs. Dreads have a more natural appearance, while locs are polished and shiny. Vic Dicara of Knotty Boy, states, Left to its own devices, hair will naturally knot together and form mats or dreadlocks. Dreadlocks dont require manipulation to get started. Finger coil dreadlocks are done using a coiling/twisting method to start the locs faster than waiting for it to happen naturally. This tropical-scented gel utilizes aloe vera, hempseed oil, and a mix of vitamins to tighten locs. Having dreadlocks can make a powerful statement in society, but it is not just a fashion statement. Others may be more direct, asking if you ever wash your hair or accusing you of cultural appropriation if you dont have African roots. Comb through with the comb end and add a little more oil to the combed-out portion. As we know, the history of locs is a long one and stretches into many different cultures across the globe. ____________. They were said to be dirty, rural legends placed countless millipedes on their heads and even my ever sceptic grandmother was persuaded that they used good old kanekalon hair to obtain the waist-length locs or bongos. If youre keeping up with the beauty trends youd know theyre all going for a natural look to flaunt their natural beauty and so should you! Having a spiritual connection to hair is one of the most notable differencesbetween dreadlocks and locs. I recommend that you speak to an elder or/and consult the mini bibliography below. The majority of people that have dreadlocks really . With the Green Gold and Red flag, this look and ideas spread throughout the Caribbean and were met with scorn and fear, which is understandable. The big difference, though, is in the definition of the rope-like hair structures. Create dreads hair by starting with 1-inch sections at a time. Many people use the terms dreadlocks and locs interchangeably, but there's a difference between the two. Essentially, 3-strand twists involve twisting each section of hair while you braid it. New Jersey: Rutger University Press. In the article In Nigeria, dreadlocks are entangled with beliefs about danger, Aguele tells us that matted hair is synonymous with madness and that madness should be beaten out of you. In essence, dreads are an evolving, nearly organic form of hair styling where the hair is encouraged to form natural tension knots, also known as dread seals, due to the continual matting of the hair. You can use multiple methods to form locs. Dreadlocks are installed with the help of the palm-rolling or twisting technique. From defining and explaining what dreadlocks are to step-by-step instructions on removing them, youre now well-informed about this traditional hairstyle, how to care for it, and what makes it so unique. She has been interested in esthetics since childhood, and has tried every hair, skin, and makeup product ever produced (more or less). It is fascinating to see how this West African tradition echoes with the intent of Rastafari. We dive deep into this traditional hairstyle and what makes it unique. But since dreads dont twist or knit the hair, some people find them to be less secure and prone to unraveling. The very first man to call himself a Rastaman, Leonard Howell, did not have dreadlocks, he had a beard. While it may look simple, the undercut brings a whole new look to . You will also need to consider the amount of time that you are willing to put in to keep up the appearance you want to create. http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Rastas-beatenforcibly-trimmed-of-their-locks-after-Coral-Gardens_45946, https://www.jstor.org/stable/40653024?seq=1#metadata_info_tab_contents. Ultimately, there are many benefits to wearing a natural hairstyle in dreadlocks, from health and maintenance savings to the confidence and personal statement that it can offer. You can even remove dreadlocks without cutting or damaging your hair (more on that in a bit). Not that we want to put up sides and call one side our rivalry and the other our crew, as the term vs may imply, we just want to let you know why here, at Dr Locs, we prefer to refer to our locs as locs minus the dread, which has a variety of implications. The upside of this method and type of loc is that its really easy and anyone who can do a 3-strand braid can do it. Subscribe to our newsletter and get 10% off your first purchase. While its not easy to remove dreads, it is possible, so its not like your decision is irreversible. 13. One of the main aims of the natural hair community is to transform ones perspective of their natural hair. Look for formulas that dont contain silicones, which leave a residue and buildup in the hair. Although clean hair will dread by itself, it does take some time for your hair to truly LOOK like dreadlocks. High Ponytail with Undercut. One question we hear a lot is Do you have to wash dreads? The answer to that is an emphatic YES. You have locs and that is fine. Instead, rely on air-drying to ensure all moisture is evaporated. (1995). In this beginners guide, we cover everything you need to know about dreadlocks, including: Ever wish there was a simple class on dreadlocks that explains everything you need to know? Keeping your de-locked, freed hair in braids will make it easier to manage as you work. Taking out dreadlocks is not an easy feat. Photo: REX Shutterstock. Though what we also know is the power of language and the way it intensely affects both our conscious and subconscious minds. According to Tharps, "the modern understanding of dreadlocks is that the British, who were . Repeat for every dreadlock this is the part that takes a lot of time. Although they are rather similar to dreads in the fact that they are a hairstyle that will need time and patience to achieve, locs are different. When it comes to the debate of dreads vs locs vs twists, its important to define each of the styles first. Dreadlocks noun. Children born with knotted hair are believed to be incarnations of Dada, a Yoruba Orisha, and are revered until they get a ceremonial haircut, officially instating them as respectable and normal members of their community (Aguele, 2019). Dread itself means horrible and frightening, and locs means locks, together it is as if such a hairstyle is a horrible existence, which . The five stages of locs are: starter, budding, teen, mature, and rooted. Finally, many people feel a sense of personal accomplishment when they rock their dreadlocks. The two words sound a lot alike, but the results are different. One of the most common questions we hear from people considering dreadlocks is Will dreads ruin my hair? Dreadlocks dont always cause damage to your hair, but they certainly can depending on the method you use to form them and how you maintain them. Dreadlocks likely had practical and cultural purposes. They create a more rounded, voluminous look that is easy to spot, especially when compared to dreads, which tend to be more straggly or rope-like in appearance. That is the reason why I argue that you can always have locs, but not necessarily dreadlocks. This is especially effective on cut locs where theres an open end. Using a no-residue shampoo, youll want to target your scalp, not your dreads, when you shampoo. Its less work to maintain dreads than it is to style and maintain long hair, but theres still quite a bit of maintenance involved. The biggest difference between dreadlocks and locs is quite simple. While some people may use both terms interchangeably, the differences mentioned above should help youdetermine which term works best. After shampooing your dreads, squeeze them with a fully dry and absorbent towel. If locs appeal to you and youre willing to put in the time and care to properly maintain them, we say go for it. PS: If you want to find the best mobile loctician in London, check out our platform afrocks.com Well cover those next. As the locks are not constantly being manipulated, the hair is allowed to become stronger and healthier. These products force your hairs outermost cuticle layer to open up, making the surface rougher to increase friction and accelerate matting and locking. Green Shampoo for Red Hair Tones: How Does It Help? It is a sign of their individualism and commitment to self-love and positivity. (1994b). Worried about misshapen, loose, dry, or stanky locs? He links the current Nigerian animosity towards men wearing locs to the deeply rooted beliefs that Dada hair is a connection to the spiritual world, the unknown. It is our duty to know ourselves, our history in order to enlight the ignorant and ignore the fools. Squeeze each loc to remove as much excess moisture as possible. Heres a quick overview of what youll learn: Ready to jump in? Chimere Faulk, a natural hair stylist based in Atlanta, GA and owner of, , Dreadlocks can be traced to just about every civilization in history. Its no surprise that many people confuse dreadlocks and locs. Seen adorning the heads of members of various ethnicities, dreadlocks show no sign of going away anytime soon. Moreover, the natural oils can be evenly distributed without having to use product and so reduce the possibility of brittleness or the development of split ends and breakage. Interlocking - Interlocking is done with a latch hook that pulls the ends of the hair through the roots, creating the internal structure of the dreads. January 4, 2023. You Probably Need a Haircut provides general information only. Locks are a cultural identity. Does OGX Shampoo Lead to Hair Loss? In addition, well take a closer look at how both hairstyles are created, so that you can decide which one you would like to make if you choose to wear this sculpted style dreads vs locs. N.S. Rinse your dreadlocks thoroughly after using shampoo.