Braided-In Dreads: How It Works (and Why It's the Perfect Way to Try Dreads)

Perhaps you have dreamed of dreadlocks for a long time, but haven't quite dared to take the step. Perhaps you wonder how it would feel to see yourself in the mirror with dreads. Or perhaps you simply want to play with colour, length and style for a while, without making a permanent change.

Then braided-in dreads may be just right for you.

My name is Ann-Marie Christell, and I have worked with dreadlocks for 26 years. In this post I share how it works when I braid in dreads, what you can expect, and how to care for them afterwards. Take your time. Read at your own pace.

What does it mean to braid in dreads?

Braiding in dreads means that I attach ready-made synthetic dreadlocks to your own hair. It is a temporary solution. Your own hair does not lock into dreads, and when the time comes, the dreads can be taken out again.

It is perfect for you if you:

• want to try how it feels to have dreads before deciding on real dreadlocks
• want longer or fuller hair straight away
• want to play with colour, texture and style
• want a new look for a trip, a festival, a wedding or a new chapter in life
• simply want to do something new with your hair

You can choose:

• a full head of dreads
• partial dreads, mixed with your own loose hair
• just a few dreads as an accent
• a natural look or a more styled look
• different colours, textures and lengths

It is a creative process where we design your hair together.

Two types of braided-in dreads

Classic synthetic dreads

Firm, round dreads all the way down to the tips. They give the classic dreadlock look and can be made in almost any colour and length you like. Read more about synthetic dreads.

Mermaid dreads

Dreads with loose, curly ends. They give a softer, more alive and playful look, and move beautifully as you walk. Many people choose them because they feel a little lighter and more romantic. Read more about mermaid dreads.

What it is like when you come to me

1. We start with your vision

I always begin by listening. How do you want your hair to feel? Which style are you drawn to? Do you want something natural, something edgier, or something in between? Please bring pictures that inspire you. They help us find your look together.

2. Colour and design

To create a living, natural result, I blend several shades of synthetic hair. This gives depth to the colour, a more realistic result and a tailored look that suits you, your skin tone and your own hair.

3. Choosing the dreads

I work with both single ended and double ended dreads. Which type suits you best depends on your hair, how you want the dreads to fall and how long you want to keep them. You choose the type, texture, colours and how you want the ends to look, and I help you find what works best for your hair.

4. Attaching the dreads

The dreads are attached to small sections of your own hair, close to the scalp, with a gentle technique. The aim is for them to sit securely, feel comfortable and look natural, without pulling on or burdening your hair more than necessary.

5. Shaping the dreads

Once the dreads are in place, they are shaped by hand. I use steam to shape the dreads, create structure and make them look alive and natural.

6. The result

When we are finished, you go home with your hair done straight away. Dreads that look natural from the very first day, and a hairstyle that feels like you.

Custom-made synthetic dreads

I also make ready-made sets of synthetic dreads, designed entirely around your vision and wishes. You can choose to:

• order dreadlocks and have me put them in
• or order dreadlocks and have them sent to your home

If you choose to have them sent to you, you also get clear instruction videos showing you how to put them in yourself.

How to order

1. Send an email to [email protected]
2. Include inspiration pictures of how you would like your hair to look
3. We book a video consultation where we go through everything together

After that, I create a personal set of synthetic dreads, designed around your style, your hair and your feeling.

Do you have to do your whole head?

No, not at all. You can choose a full set, partial dreads mixed with your own hair, or just a few dreads as an accent. Everything is adapted to your hair and your vision.

How does it feel the first few days?

For the first few days your scalp may feel a little tender or tight, and it can take a while to get used to the weight and the feeling of having dreads. This usually passes quite quickly. If something pulls or hurts in a way that doesn't feel right, get in touch. Braided-in dreads should feel comfortable.

Remember too that your own hair has to carry the dreads. The longer and more dreads you have, the more weight. This is something we talk about when we plan your set, so that it is gentle on your hair.

How long do braided-in dreads last?

• You can wear them for about two to three months before they need to be redone.
• The dreads themselves last a long time and can be reused.
• It is important to redo them in time. If they stay in too long, your own hair can start to tangle at the roots, and then taking them out becomes harder and more stressful for your hair.

When it is time to take them out or redo them, I am happy to help.

How do you care for braided-in dreads?

It is easier than many people think:

• Wash your hair once or twice a week with a silicone-free shampoo. Focus on the scalp.
• Dry thoroughly. Don't let your hair stay damp at the roots for too long.
• Gently separate your own hair with your fingers around the attachments, so it doesn't tangle.
• Use a leave-in conditioner spray to keep your own hair soft and healthy.
• Protect your hair while you sleep, for example with a silk scarf or a silk pillowcase.
• Rinse your hair after swimming in salt water or chlorinated water.

A simple routine that keeps both your own hair and your dreads looking lovely for a long time.

A gentle step towards real dreadlocks

Many of my clients start with braided-in dreads and later decide on real dreadlocks. It is a calm and safe way to feel your way. How does it feel to see myself like this? How do the people around me react? How do I feel about the weight and the sensation?

If you want to read more about real dreadlocks, read What are dreads? A complete guide to dreadlocks and How do you make dreadlocks? A complete guide.

Why choose braided-in dreads?

• No permanent change
• Gentle on your hair when they are put in and cared for properly
• Endless possibilities with colour, length and style
• A perfect way to try dreadlocks
• A finished result straight away

My philosophy

For me, it isn't just about hair. It is about creating something personal, about you feeling safe in the chair, and about giving you a calm and inspiring experience.

I see every set as a work of art, with your hair as my canvas. And often I see the same thing happen as when I make real dreadlocks: the person in the mirror begins to feel more like themselves.

Would you like to try?

My salon is in Stockholm, I also work in Provence, France, and I travel to other cities in Europe. You can find more information here: Synthetic dreadlocks.

Are you curious about braided-in dreads and want to create your own look? Send me an email at [email protected] and tell me what you dream of. I will answer honestly and help you find what suits you and your hair.

With love,
Ann-Marie