Looking to start natural (or neglect as some people call them) soon! Out where I live at the moment (in asia) there's not a lot of this culture and the usual beach/tourist spots have booths where people get their hair braided or in corn rows. Dreadlocks now seem to be in fashion as I see a lot more extensions on display at these places. I took a look at they way they work and it really seems damaging to the hair/roots!
Oh I haven't actually started yet- I'm here for more information. So far from what I gather from youtube and the forum :
Natural :
- Less time invested/maintenance. Possibly slower evolution but no need to keep visiting a specialist or getting work done
- More organic evolution and personal style
- General opinion is that it takes longer or the payoff is much later. i.e. it's a long term game not short term (does that make sense?)
- Initial stages tend to appear more messy/more difficult to tame/control
My hair tends to section and form tight thick curls when I wash it within a couple of days. I've been using CANTU coconut curling cream to keep it presentable and not look like I got hit by a train. Obviously the use of product has to stop if I want to start locking.
Questions :
- Is twice washing twice a week from the get go alright? (herbal natural hair wash or just ACV)
- For the first few weeks, is it ok for me to wear a tam/beanie when I'm out? What about bed time?
- I've seen many progress videos for natty dreads where people are using rubber bands - what is this about?
- Is there any merit in letting the hair grow a few more months ? Right now is around 6-7" on the front and about 4-5" on the sides and back.
- How do you guys do scalp/oil treatment? I plan on using some natural herbal oils to keep scalp health and stop itching.
Growing up I always had my hair buzzed short as it is a combo of thick,wavy and curly in some areas. The awkward stages are many and often haha. This journey of natural dreads is going to be some serious innerwork and ego death haha.
Peace!
