Introduction:

Making your dreads curly can be a stylish and refreshing change, giving you the perfect balance between dreadlocks and curl definition. Whether you’re switching up your style or simply wanting to try something new, follow these 15 steps to achieve curly dreads.

Step 1: Wash your dreads

Before attempting to style or curl your dreads, make sure they are clean by washing them with a clarifying shampoo. This removes any buildup, ensuring that your curls turn out flawless.

Step 2: Dry them thoroughly

Dry your dreads completely before styling them. You may use a microfiber towel or a blow dryer to speed up the process. Damp dreads are difficult to manipulate and may not hold curls properly.

Step 3: Apply dread wax

Applying a dap of dread wax before styling can help maintain the shape of your curls for longer periods. It will also keep your hair moisturized.

Step 4: Choose a curling method

There are several methods to create curls in your dreads, such as using perm rods, pipe cleaners, braiding techniques, or the twisting method. Pick one that suits your needs and the desired curl tightness.

Step 5: Section your dreads

Divide your dreadlocks into manageable sections for more precise styling and better results. Depending on their thickness, you may need fewer or more sections.

Step 6: Curling with perm rods

If using perm rods, wrap small sections of dreads around each rod and secure with rubber bands. Allow them to set overnight.

Step 7: Curling with pipe cleaners

For pipe cleaners, fold each cleaner in half and tightly wrap the dreads around it in a spiral pattern. Repeat for all sections and let them set overnight.

Step 8: Curl by braiding

Braid together three or more dreads and secure the ends with rubber bands. Allow enough time for your hair to form loose waves before taking the braids out.

Step 9: Curl by twisting

For a twisting method, take two dreads, twist them together tightly, then wrap them around each other. Secure with a hair tie at the end.

Step 10: Sleep with care

When curling overnight, wear a satin bonnet or use a satin pillowcase to prevent frizz and hair breakage caused by friction during sleep.

Step 11: Remove styling tools

Depending on your chosen curling method, gently remove perm rods, pipe cleaners, or rubber bands in the morning.

Step 12: Inspect the curls

Make sure that your curls have properly formed and are of consistent shape and size. If necessary, you may adjust specific sections using your preferred curling technique.

Step 13: Separate the curls

Separate your curled dreads to create volume and a more natural look. Use your fingers to gently pull apart any clumps of dreads without disturbing their curl pattern.

Step 14: Maintain the curls

Use a light mist of water mixed with a leave-in conditioner to maintain your curly dreads’ moisture during the day.

Step 15: Retouch when needed

Curls on dreads can last several days with proper care. However, touch up any areas where curls have loosened by quickly repeating your chosen method.

Conclusion:

Achieving curly dreads can seem like an intimidating process at first. However, by following these steps and investing some time and effort, you can give your dreadlocks a unique and stylish curly appearance that is sure to turn heads.