If you’ve been rocking dreadlocks for a while but find them lacking in thickness, you’re not alone. Many people face the challenge of thin dreads and are searching for effective ways to boost their volume and vitality.
To make dreads grow thicker, focus on a holistic approach that includes proper nutrition, scalp health, and the right haircare products. Opt for natural treatments like tea rinses and essential oils, and consult a professional for personalized advice. Regular maintenance, avoiding overwashing, and using specialized products like Wild Growth Oil can also contribute to thicker, healthier dreads.
Read on to discover a comprehensive guide that will arm you with proven strategies to transform your thin dreads into the thick, luscious locks you’ve always desired.
Understanding the science behind dread thickness is crucial for anyone looking to improve the quality of their locks. Hair thickness is determined by various factors, including genetics, diet, and hair care routines. The diameter of your individual hair strands and the density of hair follicles on your scalp both play a role. By targeting these factors, you can work towards achieving thicker dreads.
While it’s tempting to think that the thickness of your dreads is entirely within your control, genetics also plays a significant role. Some people are naturally blessed with thicker hair strands and a higher density of hair follicles. If thin hair runs in your family, you may have to work a bit harder to achieve the dread thickness you desire. However, don’t lose hope; there are still plenty of ways to improve.
Do Dreads Get Thicker or Thinner Over Time
Dreads, whether thick or thin, are beautiful when properly maintained. Dreads for most American men and women hold immense significance; obviously, the reason why many styles themselves in it.However, growing a healthy dread requires your commitment, tender/loving care (TLC), and consistency.
Dreads either get thicker or thinner over time, depending on the maturity stage. The length and thickness of dread will change during the first years because the hair is getting matted. The point is that
A healthy dread will only get thicker than when you started it because they are getting matured. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about the thickness/thinness of your dread, the causes, and how you can grow thick rather than thin dread.
Tips For Thicker Dreadlocks
Tip #1 – Take Care of Your Scalp
Hey, let’s talk about the unsung hero of great dreads—your scalp. It’s easy to overlook, but trust me, your scalp health is a game-changer when it comes to dread thickness. Battling dandruff or a dry, itchy scalp? That could be slowing down your dread growth. So, make friends with shampoos and oils that are all about nourishing that scalp of yours.
Tip # 2 – Eat Your Way to Thicker Dreads
You’ve heard the saying, “You are what you eat,” right? Well, your dreads are no different. The food on your plate can make or break your dread thickness. Load up on proteins, vitamins, and essential minerals like biotin and zinc. Foods like eggs, fish, and nuts should be your go-to.
Tip # 3 -The Lowdown on Topical Solutions for Dread Thickness
So you want thicker dreads, and you want them now. Enter topical treatments. Products like Wild Growth Oil and Jamaican Mango & Lime Locking Gel are your new besties. But hold on, don’t go overboard. A patch test is a must, and remember, less is often more. Overuse can lead to the dreaded build-up—pun intended.
Tip #4 – DIY Hacks for Boosting Dread Thickness
If you’re the DIY type, you’re in luck. Tea rinses are not just for sipping; they’re also great for your dreads. Chamomile, peppermint, or lemon ginger—take your pick. And let’s not forget about whipping up your own oil blend. A mix of coconut, olive, and a dash of essential oils can do wonders for your dread thickness.
Tip #5 – Navigating the Maze of Haircare Products
The haircare aisle is a jungle. Shampoos, conditioners, serums—oh my! But not all are created equal. Want thicker dreads? Then you’ve got to be picky. Steer clear of anything with sulfates or parabens. Your best bet? Organic and natural products. They’re not just buzzwords; they’re your ticket to thicker, healthier dreads.
Consistent maintenance is key to achieving and retaining dread thickness.
Maintenance Tips for Sustaining Dread Thickness
- Regular Retwisting: Aim to retwist your dreads every 4-6 weeks. Overdoing it can lead to breakage, while underdoing it can result in loose, frizzy dreads.
- Protective Styles: Opt for dread-friendly styles like dread buns, updos, or loose ponytails that minimize tension and reduce wear and tear on your locks.
- Deep Conditioning: Incorporate a monthly deep conditioning treatment to keep your dreads hydrated and healthy, which in turn contributes to thickness.
- Scalp Care: Use a gentle, natural shampoo to keep your scalp clean. A healthy scalp is crucial for dread thickness.
- Avoid Build-Up: Use clarifying shampoos or apple cider vinegar rinses periodically to remove product build-up, which can make dreads appear thinner.
- Trimming: While it may seem counterintuitive, occasional trimming can remove split ends and prevent breakage, helping your dreads look and feel thicker.
- Moisturize: Use a light, natural oil like jojoba or coconut oil to keep your dreads moisturized. Dry, brittle hair is more prone to thinning.
- Nighttime Care: Always cover your dreads with a silk or satin scarf or use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and breakage while you sleep.
- Be Gentle: When washing or retwisting, handle your dreads gently to avoid unnecessary tension and breakage.
- Routine Check-ups: Schedule regular appointments with your loctician for professional maintenance and to address any issues before they become major problems.
While you’re on your journey to thicker dreads, there are some pitfalls you should steer clear of. Overwashing your hair can strip it of natural oils, making it dry and brittle. Similarly, using the wrong products can lead to build-up and even hair loss. Always do your research before trying out new treatments or routines.
Expert Tips and Tricks
When it comes to achieving the thick dreads of your dreams, there’s no substitute for professional wisdom. Haircare experts and seasoned locticians offer a treasure trove of expert tips and tricks that can fast-track your journey to fuller, healthier locks.
- Consult a Trichologist: If you’re struggling with dread thinning, a trichologist can help identify any underlying scalp or hair health issues.
- Use a Microfiber Towel: After washing, use a microfiber towel to reduce frizz and breakage, both of which can make dreads appear thinner.
- Hot Oil Treatments: A monthly hot oil treatment can deeply nourish your scalp and dreads, promoting thickness. Opt for oils rich in fatty acids like castor or avocado oil.
- Avoid Tight Hairstyles: Overly tight ponytails or buns can cause tension at the roots, leading to thinning. Always opt for looser styles that don’t pull on the scalp.
- Scalp Massages: Regularly massaging your scalp can stimulate blood flow, encouraging hair growth and, in turn, thicker dreads.
- Be Mindful of Retwisting: Over-retwisting can lead to breakage and thinning. Experts recommend retwisting no more than once a month.
- Use a Satin or Silk Pillowcase: These materials cause less friction than cotton, reducing breakage and helping your dreads maintain their thickness.
- Nutritional Supplements: Biotin or fish oil supplements can promote hair health. However, consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
- Quality over Quantity: When it comes to products, less is often more. Using too many products can lead to build-up, making dreads appear thinner. Stick to a few tried-and-true items recommended by experts.
- Seasonal Care: Your hair’s needs can change with the seasons. An expert can help you adjust your care routine to prevent seasonal thinning.
Key Factors Behind Thinning Dreads
- Heavy Products: Build-up from waxes, butters, and creams can lead to dread thinning.
- Hair Color: Incorrectly applied hair dye, especially bleach, can weaken dreads.
- Tension: Tight hairstyles and accessories can damage follicles, causing thinning.
- Medication: Side effects from certain drugs can lead to hair loss.
- Genetics: Your genetic makeup influences your hair density and potential for thinning.
- Stress: Emotional and physical stress can weaken certain parts of your hair.
- Infrequent Maintenance: Waiting too long between dread care can lead to thinning, especially for specific dread types like Sisterlocks.
- Lint Removal: Picking out lint manually can create weak spots in dreads.
- Poor Nutrition: Lack of essential nutrients and hydration can contribute to thinning.
- Hair Texture: Coarse or straight hair may have different thinning risks.
- Section Size: Uneven sectioning can result in uneven dread thickness.
Wrapping It Up: Your Roadmap to Thicker, Healthier Dreads
So there you have it—a comprehensive look at the factors that can make or break your journey to thicker dreads. From the products you slather on to the stress you carry in your mind, each plays a role in the health and thickness of your locks. But don’t fret; armed with this knowledge, you’re well-equipped to tackle these challenges head-on.
Remember, the path to luscious, thick dreads is a marathon, not a sprint. So take it one step at a time, and you’ll be flaunting those enviable, thick dreads before you know it.