How to get rid of buildup in dreadlocks

Product build-up in dreadlocks can be unsightly. With occasional or continued use, styling products, pomades, gels, and waxes can collect in your locs over time and leave a residue. The residue can be difficult to remove even by washing the hair. This is because the dreads will have lots of gunk that need greater care to restore them. If you are experiencing the problem, you need to know how to get rid of buildup in dreadlocks to ensure the natural glow and healthy shine of your hair.

The advantage of dreadlocks is that they can stay clean for a long time. However, once there is a build-up of styling products, debris, and wax, the typical shampoo will not be enough to remove the excessive residue.

Different methods for getting rid of buildup in dreadlocks

So, what is the best way to get rid of buildup in dreadlocks? There are several methods you can use. Some of these include:

1. Using soap

The soap method can be useful in cases where there is less product build-up in your dreads. That means a wash or two using regular dread soap. To achieve this, you need to do a deep cleaning. In other words, there are several ingredients and a specific process you will have to follow.

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Requirements

• Two tablespoons of Dread Soap
• One gallon of Hot Water
• A cup of lemon juice (optional)

Procedure

• Pour the dread soap into the gallon of hot water
• Add the lemon juice
• Soak your dreadlocks into the hot water for ten to fifteen minutes
• After soaking, apply the soap into each loc like a sponge. The process will take time but will be worth the effort.
• Ensure all the locs are good and soapy
• Let the hair settle for five minutes and get more fresh hot water
• Work the dread soap out of the hair while under the hot water
• Continue flushing them with the water until the soap diminishes

The whole process will leave the dreads super clean. Hot water is good because it will help to melt any waxes. Depending on the build-up, it may take more washing using the same method to get residue out of dreads completely.

2. The iron method

The iron method allows you to melt any waxes out of the dreadlocks. It is also possible to remove lint from dreads using this method. If you choose the procedure, enlist the help of a friend or professional hair stylist. Also, take great caution not to burn the scalp. This method is not suitable for people with short locs.

Requirements

• Iron
• Ironing board
• Cotton cloth
• 5 brown paper bags
• A friend or professional to help with the removal

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Procedure

• With an assistant helping you, have them sit in such a way they can drape the dreadlocks over the ironing board.
• Take small sections of the hair. Wrap a small piece of the brown paper bag around the hair.
• Using a warm iron, rub it over the brown paper gently. Do not use an iron with steam. When rubbing the paper, the wax will transfer to the paper.
• Repeat the step above in the same area until you get rid of the wax.
• Continue the process with other sections using the same procedure.

When using iron, do not allow it to get too hot. Moreover, do not get it close to the scalp because it can cause severe burns. Using iron will not only melt the wax but also make the hair straight, become smooth, and manageable. After completing the steps, consider washing with soap to clean gunk out of dreads.

3. The apple cider vinegar rinse method

The mixture of apple cider vinegar for dreads is one of the best for hair detox. Moreover, it will help to clear away mold in dreadlocks, dirt, and product residue.

Requirements

• Two gallons of water
• Two cups of apple cider vinegar
• Half a cup of baking soda
• Shampoo

Procedure

• Pour the baking soda and the water in a basin.
• Soak the locs for about ten minutes.
• Clean the hair well using the shampoo. Do not condition the dreads.
• Rinse your hair to remove the shampoo out of the dreads.
• Rinse the dreadlocks again using apple cider mixture.

When you wash dreads with baking soda and vinegar, the fizzing action helps to dissolve the residue. As a result, your hair will be soft and clean. Also, the rinse will leave your scalp feeling lightweight.

You can ensure there is no build up in dreads by using apple cider vinegar rinse every month. It will give your hair a natural clarifying treatment.

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Tips and additional ideas

Here are additional methods you can use to keep your dreads clean:

• If home remedies are not working for you, consider buying a dreadlock removal kit. It will help you to remove wax and other residues from the hair, leaving it clean.
• The most effective way to avoid build-up and to keep clean locs is to wash them frequently. Your dreads need regular washing, just like other hairstyles. Shampoo and roll them at least once a week.
• Always keep your hair and scalp clean and healthy. Dreads tend to put a lot of weight on the scalp. For that reason, keep the scalp moisturised and clean. Also, massage it from time to time to strengthen the follicles and promote proper blood flow. By doing so, your dreads will never get brittle or fall out. A deep clean dreadlocks process is ideal.
• If the build up in dreads is too much and you cannot remove the wax even with all the available methods, you may need to cut off the hair.

If you decide to grow dreads, you will first need to know how to get rid of buildup in dreadlocks. That is crucial because product build-up in locs is common due to styling products, waxes, and gels. While dreadlocks are beautiful and somewhat easier to maintain, they require regular cleaning. Regular shampooing using warm water is one of the most effective methods for preventing build-up.

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Source: TUKO.co.ke

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