ripping popping seperating dreads to prevent congos

the most basic maintenance for dreadlocks is separating one dread from another to prevent congos (dreads grown together)

how to separate dreads and keep them from growing together

this should be done often in the early stages of dreading, it can be done less as they become mature dreads. to start, grab 2 dreads next to each other and pull in opposite directions, breaking the connecting hairs. there will be a slight ripping or poping sound.
this can hurt if allowed to go too log between separations.

what to do if you can't easily separate dreads

1: first try spraying a little olive oil or spray on conditioner just on the connecting hairs.
2: if still unable to pull apart, try wiggling a fingertip under just a few hairs at a time and pull upwards away from the scalp, working towards the scalp till you loosen enough to be able to rip them.
3: if these methods fail, your best off allowing them to congo and become one dread, unless the dreads way too thick for comfort. if separating is needed by cutting, do not just slice down the center, instead take tiny scissors like nail scissors and surgically clip just a few hairs at a time (with the blades vertically between the dreads) clip as you pull away from each other till you clip enough to allow ripping. clipping is not recommended so use care.

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