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How Do I Choose the Best Dreadlock Hair Extensions?

Rachael Cullins
Rachael Cullins

Forming dreadlocks with natural hair can be challenging. Using dreadlock hair extensions of place of real dreadlocked hair can help a person achieve this hairstyle quickly and easily. To choose the best extensions, you should consider the price you want to pay, the materials from which the dreadlock extensions are made, the method used to attach the extensions and the care necessary to maintain them.

Dreadlocks are created by letting the hair grow and intentionally knotting and twisting the hair over time so that it forms rope-like strands around the head. This is achieved via back-combing the hair and avoiding combing or brushing the hair to allow matting to naturally occur. This process typically takes several months and can be done with the assistance of a hair care professional or on your own.

Hair extensions can be sewn or braided into or clipped or bonded to naturally growing hair.
Hair extensions can be sewn or braided into or clipped or bonded to naturally growing hair.

Dreadlock hair extensions allow the wearer to avoid the timely process of growing and forming natural dreadlocks. The extensions have the appearance of real hair but are often made from synthetic materials. Many people opt for extensions to achieve the look of dreadlocks if they would like to wear the hairstyle only temporarily and want to maintain healthy real hair beneath the extensions.

Using plastic combs should be avoided when styling dreadlocks.
Using plastic combs should be avoided when styling dreadlocks.

There are several options for choosing the best dreadlock hair extensions. The least expensive method for wearing the extensions is to choose synthetic dreadlocks that can be applied at home. These home methods can vary from wigs to clip-in extensions and are available at a variety of price points. These types of at-home extensions are not intended to be worn for long periods of time.

Dreadlock hair extensions can attach to a person's own natural hair and can be easily removed without any damage.
Dreadlock hair extensions can attach to a person's own natural hair and can be easily removed without any damage.

A hair stylist can place dreadlock hair extensions that last longer. The stylist can weave or glue the extensions onto existing hair, creating a bond that can last several months between follow-up appointments. As hair grows and the extensions begin to loosen, the stylist can tighten the extensions back to their original placement. Thus, the extensions can be worn indefinitely, as long as the natural hair to which the dreadlock is attached is not becoming damaged.

The most preferable dreadlock hair extensions are those that do not damage the hair. Some methods that stylists use to place the extensions include glues or chemicals that are not good for the wearer’s real hair. Less-damaging methods involve braiding the dreadlocks to the wearer’s hair using a special knot, without the use of any chemicals. The woven-in extensions are also easier to remove than extensions applied with chemicals.

Proper care for dreadlock extensions is also essential. Synthetic extensions are most often made of plastic and therefore are not conducive to heat treatments such as blow drying or curling. Dreadlock hair extensions should be washed sparingly so that they can retain their quality and shape.

Discussion Comments

anon941523

What type of hair should I purchase?

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    • Hair extensions can be sewn or braided into or clipped or bonded to naturally growing hair.
      By: alarsonphoto
      Hair extensions can be sewn or braided into or clipped or bonded to naturally growing hair.
    • Using plastic combs should be avoided when styling dreadlocks.
      By: Ian 2010
      Using plastic combs should be avoided when styling dreadlocks.
    • Dreadlock hair extensions can attach to a person's own natural hair and can be easily removed without any damage.
      By: dimedrol68
      Dreadlock hair extensions can attach to a person's own natural hair and can be easily removed without any damage.