Dreadlocks, also known as locs, are a unique and stylish hairstyle that has been around for centuries. While there are many different ways to create dreads, small wicks dreads are a particularly popular option.
What are Small Wicks Dreads?
Small wicks dreads are thin, narrow dreadlocks that are typically created by twisting or braiding damp hair into sections and then allowing them to mat and tangle naturally. The result is a head of dreadlocks that are small, tight, and have a distinctive appearance.
Benefits of Small Wicks Dreads
There are many benefits to having small wicks dreads, including:
- Low maintenance: Small wicks dreads are relatively easy to care for. They do not require daily washing or styling, and they can be left to dry naturally.
- Versatile: Small wicks dreads can be worn in a variety of different styles, from buns to braids to ponytails. They can also be accessorized with beads, jewelry, and other embellishments.
- Unique: Small wicks dreads are a unique and stylish hairstyle that can help you stand out from the crowd.
How to Create Small Wicks Dreads
There are a few different ways to create small wicks dreads, but the most common method is to twist or braid damp hair into sections and then allow them to mat and tangle naturally.
To create small wicks dreads using the twist method, follow these steps:
- Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product residue.
- Towel dry your hair and then apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner to each section.
- Divide your hair into small sections, about 1-2 inches wide.
- Twist each section tightly from the root to the tip.
- Secure the ends of the twists with rubber bands or string.
- Allow the twists to dry completely.
- Once the twists are dry, you can start to separate them into individual dreadlocks. To do this, simply use your fingers to gently pull apart the twists.
To create small wicks dreads using the braid method, follow these steps:
- Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product residue.
- Towel dry your hair and then apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner to each section.
- Divide your hair into small sections, about 1-2 inches wide.
- Braid each section tightly from the root to the tip.
- Secure the ends of the braids with rubber bands or string.
- Allow the braids to dry completely.
- Once the braids are dry, you can start to separate them into individual dreadlocks. To do this, simply use your fingers to gently pull apart the braids.
Tips and Tricks for Maintaining Small Wicks Dreads
Here are a few tips and tricks for maintaining small wicks dreads:
- Wash your dreads regularly. Small wicks dreads should be washed every 1-2 weeks. To wash your dreads, use a clarifying shampoo and gently massage the scalp. Avoid using harsh shampoos or conditioners, as these can damage the dreadlocks.
- Dry your dreads thoroughly. After washing your dreads, it is important to dry them thoroughly. To do this, you can use a blow dryer on a low heat setting or simply air dry them.
- Separate your dreads regularly. As your dreads grow, they will start to grow together. To prevent this, you should separate your dreads regularly. To do this, simply use your fingers to gently pull apart the dreadlocks.
- Moisturize your dreads. To keep your dreads healthy and looking their best, it is important to moisturize them regularly. To do this, you can use a dreadlock moisturizer or simply apply a small amount of coconut oil to your dreads.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when maintaining small wicks dreads:
- Over-washing your dreads. Washing your dreads too often can strip them of their natural oils and cause them to become dry and brittle.
- Using harsh shampoos or conditioners. Harsh shampoos and conditioners can damage the dreadlocks and cause them to become weak and fragile.
- Not drying your dreads thoroughly. Not drying your dreads thoroughly can lead to mold and mildew growth.
- Not separating your dreads regularly. Not separating your dreads regularly can cause them to grow together and become matted.
- Not moisturizing your dreads. Not moisturizing your dreads can cause them to become dry and brittle.
Conclusion
Small wicks dreadlocks are a unique and stylish hairstyle that can be easy to care for. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can keep your small wicks dreads healthy and looking their best.