Do you feel like locking your hair? Good plan. While there are many ways to get your dream hair, freeform dreads are the best ways to get that authentic feel you’d love.
These locs have become popular as a unique and low-maintenance style, lessening your worries about dealing with heavy products or styling tools.
So, if you’re curious about starting your dread journey, this article shows you everything you need to make an informed decision.
What are Freeform Dreads?
Also known as freedom dreads, this gorgeous style allows your hair to grow organically without much manipulation. Each section of the hair starts as twists and grows out on its own.
Unlike semi-freeform dreads, you don’t have to separate your roots or roll your hair with products to achieve these dreadlocks. You let your hair work its magic by itself.
Beyond its minimalist beauty, some people believe freeform dreads hold spiritual advantages since they involve growing your hair without manipulation. But regardless of your reason for starting this journey, it’s worth it. How, you wonder? Below are perks to convince you.
Benefits of Freeform Dreads
These dreads have many perks, which include:
Low maintenance
Freeform dreads require significantly less upkeep than other dreadlock styles. This makes them an ideal choice for those with busy lifestyles or who prefer a more hands-off approach to hair care.
Versatility
Freeform dreads can be styled in various ways, from loose and flowing to updos and braids. What’s more? As your dreads mature, you’ll have even more styling options.
Natural look
Because these dreads can form organically, they often have a more natural, authentic appearance than those created via other methods like faux locs or dreadlocks with extensions.
How Long Do Freeform Dreads Take to Grow?
It takes two years for your freeform dreads to fully take shape. And if you’re just starting out, your hair may lock within a couple of weeks.
However, your hair texture determines how long your hair will take to loc. For instance, curly hair locs faster than those with a looser curl pattern. This period helps you determine the desired shape or style you want to rock when your dreads take full shape.
Semi-freeform vs Freeform Dreads
While both hairstyles share similarities in looks, the technique for achieving them differs.
For one, freeform requires minimal styling, just pure organic growth after your first installation of the twists. On the other hand, the semi-freeform is a more sophisticated version and requires occasional retwisting every four to six months.
Also, the semi-freeform looks more polished and involves more maintenance and care. This is necessary to present a neater and trendier outlook. However, the freeform offers a free-spirited, lived-in vibe that brings your personality and unique aesthetic to life.
Can Freeform Locs Damage Your Hair?
Since it involves little to no manipulation, freeform dreads have a minimal chance of damaging your hair compared to traditional dreads. Traditional dreadlocks are often re-twisted tightly, putting tension on your scalp, thereby damaging your roots. But this doesn’t happen with freeform locks, as they’re often achieved without manipulation.
How to Start Your Freeform Dread Journey
To begin your freeform dread journey, start with clean, detangled hair. Wash your hair with a shampoo, but don’t use conditioners or styling products, as they can hinder the locking process.
Afterward, let your hair air dry completely. Then, install two-strand twists or braids for a faster locing process. As your hair grows and tangles naturally, dreads will begin to form on their own.
During the early stages of freeform dread development, your hair may look messy and unruly. This is a normal part of the process and is often called the “ugly stage.”
During this stage, resist the urge to intervene or manipulate your hair, as this can disrupt the natural locking process. Instead, focus on keeping your scalp clean and moisturized, and trust that your dreads will continue to mature and take shape over time.
How to Maintain Freeform Dreads
One of the primary benefits of freeform dreads is that they require minimal maintenance compared to other dreadlock styles. However, still take these essential steps to keep your dreads clean, healthy, and looking their best:
- Wash your dreads regularly using a residue-free shampoo designed for dreadlocks. Avoid using conditioners, as they can leave residue and cause your dreads to unravel.
- Moisturize your scalp and dreads with natural oils like coconut, jojoba, or tea tree oil. These oils help prevent dryness, itchiness, and flaking.
- Protect your dreads while sleeping by covering them with a satin or silk scarf or bonnet. This will help minimize friction and prevent your dreads from becoming frizzy or damaged.
Freeform Dreads are an Effortless Statement Hairdo
Freeform dreads are a unique, low-maintenance, and expressive hairstyle that celebrates the beauty of natural hair. By embracing organic locking and providing your dreads with proper care and attention, you achieve a stunning head of freeform locs showcasing your style.
While you may experience challenges along the way, the rewards of this distinctive hairdo are well worth the effort. Whether you’re just starting your freeform dread journey or you’re a seasoned enthusiast, remember to approach the process with patience, self-love, and an open mind.
