Dread Hairstyles for Men

Dread hairstyles for men have been around for centuries, carrying a deep cultural history and a stylish edge. Dreads are more than just a hairstyle; they’re a symbol of strength, freedom, and individuality. For men today, they offer a versatile and bold look that’s both classic and modern. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve had dreads for years, there’s always something new to learn. Let’s dive into the different types of dreadlocks, how to maintain them, and the best styles that suit you.

Different Types of Dreadlocks

When you’re considering dreadlock hairstyles for men, it’s essential to know that not all dreads are the same. There are various techniques to achieve the look, each giving a unique twist to your style.

Freeform Dreads

These grow naturally with minimal manipulation. You simply let your hair lock up on its own, leading to a more organic and unstructured look.

Semi-Freeform Dreads

A bit more polished than freeform, these dreads are twisted occasionally to keep some order but still allow a relaxed, natural vibe.

Twist Dreads

This is one of the most common methods for starting dreads. Hair is twisted into sections and allowed to lock over time. This style is ideal for those who want more defined dreadlocks.

Interlocking Dreads

This technique involves pulling the end of the dread through the root, making the locks tighter. It’s great for those looking for professional loc styles male that need less maintenance over time.

Each of these styles can be tailored to your lifestyle and personality. Some men prefer a clean-cut and neat look, while others love the carefree and wild appearance that freeform dreads bring.

See bridal hairstyles for long hair

How to Start Dreadlocks

Starting dreadlocks can be an exciting journey, but it’s important to understand the process. Here are some popular methods to get your dreads started:

Twisting

This is perfect for men with natural curls. The hair is twisted into small sections, and over time, the twists will lock and form dreads.

Backcombing

This involves teasing the hair backward to create tangles that will eventually lock into dreads. It’s a quicker way to get dreads for straighter hair types.

Braiding

Braided dread styles for males are a cool way to start your dreads. You can braid your hair and, over time, those braids will lock into permanent dreads.

Crochet

For men who want instant dreads, the crochet method can help create tight locks right from the start. This is also a great way to maintain dreads if you want them to look neat and tidy.

No matter the method, patience is key. Dreads take time to fully form and mature. It can be a few months before you start to see the full results, but the wait is definitely worth it!

Face Shapes and Dread Styles

Just like with any hairstyle, your face shape plays a big role in choosing the perfect dread style. Here’s a quick guide on how to match your dreadlock hairstyles for men with your face shape:

Oval Face

Lucky you! Almost any dread style will look great with an oval face. Try male loc styles medium length or short dreads styles for guys for a balanced and stylish appearance.

Square Face

Strong jawlines and square faces look amazing with longer dreads that soften the angles. Try long dread styles for guys or add a fade to the sides to balance the shape.

Round Face

Round faces benefit from dread styles that add height. High-top dreads or short dreads styles for black guys can help elongate your face.

Your face shape is an important factor, but at the end of the day, confidence is key. Choose a style that makes you feel good, and you’ll always look great.

Hair Texture and Dreadlocks

Different hair textures respond differently to dreads. Curly or coarse hair typically locks up faster than straight or fine hair. Here’s how different textures affect dread hairstyles for boys and men:

Curly Hair

Naturally curly hair is the best texture for dreads. It locks up faster and requires less manipulation. Styles like short dreads styles for guys or male loc styles medium length are perfect for men with curls.

Straight Hair

Dreading straight hair takes a bit more effort. Methods like backcombing or crochet can help create dreads, but they may require more time to fully lock. Styles like long dreads styles for guys work well here, as the length helps keep the hair neat and tidy.

No matter your hair texture, there’s a dread style that will work for you. It’s all about patience and using the right techniques to achieve your perfect look.

Maintenance Tips for Healthy Dreadlocks

Maintaining your dreads is essential to keep them looking fresh and healthy. Here are some top tips to keep in mind:

Washing

Yes, you can and should wash your dreads! Clean dreads lock better than dirty ones. Use a residue-free shampoo to keep your scalp clean and prevent product buildup.

Drying

Make sure to dry your dreads thoroughly after washing. Damp dreads can lead to mildew and unpleasant odours, so take your time drying them completely.

Moisturizing

Dreads can get dry, especially at the tips. Use natural oils like coconut or jojoba oil to keep your dreads soft and moisturised.

Scalp Care

Don’t forget about your scalp! Regular scalp massages can help improve circulation and keep your scalp healthy, especially if you wear men’s loc styles for wedding or formal events.

Following these tips will help you maintain the health of your dreads while keeping them looking stylish and fresh.

Popular Dreadlock Styles for Men

There are tons of cool dread styles to try, no matter your hair length or texture. Here are some of the most popular dread hairstyles for men:

High Top Dreads

Perfect for those who want a modern and edgy look. High-top dreads are styled with the sides shaved and the top left with dreads.

Mohawk Dreads

A bold style that leaves dreads only in the middle of the head, creating a dramatic and standout look.

Dreads with Fade

A clean and sharp fade on the sides combined with dreads on top is one of the most popular professional loc styles male right now.

Dreadlock Ponytail

For men with long dreads, tying them into a ponytail is both practical and stylish. It’s also a great option for formal occasions like weddings.

Styling Tips for Dreadlocks

Once you’ve got your dreads, the fun begins! Styling your dreads allows you to show off your personality. Here are some easy ways to style your locks:

Accessorize

Add beads, cuffs, or wraps to your dreads for a personal touch. This is especially popular with short dread styles for black guys.

Formal Styling

If you’re going to a wedding or special event, you can tie your dreads back into a sleek ponytail or bun for a clean look. Try men’s loc styles for weddings for inspiration.

Casual Styling

For everyday wear, you can let your dreads hang loose or tie them back into a low ponytail.

Celebrity Inspiration

Need some style inspiration? Check out these celebrities who rock dreadlocks with confidence:

J. Cole

Known for his signature freeform dreads, J. Cole keeps it natural and effortless.

The Weeknd

With his dramatic and unique dread styles, The Weeknd always stands out.

Ty Dolla $ign

His long and thick dreads are a perfect example of how you can go bold with this hairstyle.

FAQs

What are the three types of dreadlocks?

The three main types of dreadlocks are Freeform Dreads, which grow naturally with little manipulation; Twist Dreads, created by twisting sections of hair; and Interlocking Dreads, where the ends of dreads are pulled through the roots to create a tighter lock.

How to lock male hair?

To lock male hair, methods like twisting, backcombing, interlocking, or even crocheting are commonly used. The method depends on your hair type, but patience and regular maintenance are crucial for the locks to form and mature.

Are dreadlocks good or bad?

Dreadlocks are neither inherently good nor bad; it’s all about personal preference. They require maintenance and care, but many people enjoy the versatility and cultural significance of the style.

Do men wear locs?

Yes, many men wear locs. From short to long styles, men embrace dreadlocks for both fashion and cultural reasons. Dread hairstyles for men have become very popular in recent years.

How do I loc my hair?

To loc your hair, start by choosing a method that suits your hair type, such as twisting or backcombing. Maintain your locs by regularly twisting the roots, keeping your scalp clean, and moisturising your hair.

Why is hair called dreads?

The term “dreads” originated from the word “dread” in reference to people who feared or were in awe of the spiritual significance behind the hairstyle. However, many today prefer to call them “locs” to remove negative connotations.

Can you wash dreadlocks?

Yes, you can wash dreadlocks. In fact, keeping them clean helps them lock faster and stay healthy. It’s important to use a residue-free shampoo to avoid product buildup.

How to remove dreadlocks?

Dreadlocks can be removed by either combing them out (if they aren’t too mature) or cutting them off. Removing mature dreads requires a lot of patience and time.

Are hair locks permanent?

Hair locks can be permanent if you want them to be, but they can also be undone with the right process, although this can be time-consuming.

Do dreads hurt?

Dreads should not hurt when done correctly. However, if they’re too tight during the locking process or when being maintained, you may feel discomfort.

Are dreadlocks fake hair?

No, dreadlocks are not fake hair. They are natural hair that has been twisted, tangled, or locked over time. Some people may add extensions to their locs for length or thickness.

Do dreadlocks smell?

Dreadlocks don’t smell if properly cared for. Regular washing and ensuring they dry completely can prevent any odours from forming.

Are girls attracted to dreadlocks?

Attractiveness is subjective, and some people find dreadlock hairstyles attractive. It often depends on personal taste and how well-maintained the dreads are.

Do dreads break hair?

Dreads can cause breakage if they are not cared for properly, especially at the roots. However, with good maintenance, they can be healthy and strong.

Who invented the dreadlocks?

Dreadlocks have ancient origins and were worn by many cultures, including the Egyptians, Hindus, and Maasai people. The exact origin is difficult to pinpoint, but the style has been significant across various cultures for thousands of years.

Conclusion

Choosing dread hairstyles for men is more than just picking a style it’s about expressing yourself. Whether you’re going for a neat and tidy look or embracing a more natural vibe, dreads offer endless possibilities. Start your dreadlock journey today and let your hair tell your story.

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Ready to start your dreadlock journey? Whether you’re looking for short dreads styles for guys or want to rock long dreads styles for guys, there’s a perfect dread style waiting for you. Find your inspiration and take the first step today!