How to Prepare Your Hair for Dreadlocks (Before Your Appointment)

Hi lovely,
I’m so happy you’re here 🤍

I’m truly looking forward to helping you create the dreadlocks you’ve always dreamed of — the ones that feel aligned, natural, and completely you.

If you haven’t already booked your consultation, you can do that through the link below. I would love to connect with you and guide you personally through your journey.

https://calendly.com/sereneflow/zoom-konsultation-video?back=1&month=2025-07 

But before we meet, I want to help you prepare your hair in the best possible way so you get the most beautiful and long-lasting results.

Understanding the Transition to Dreadlocks

Before we dive into the practical steps, it’s important to understand one thing:

Caring for dreadlocks is different from caring for loose hair.

This also means your scalp care will need to shift.

One of the biggest changes?
👉 You won’t be washing your hair as often.

After your dreadlocks are created, I recommend:

• Washing your hair no more than twice per week
• Ideally, washing once per week

So before your appointment, we want to gently train your scalp to adjust to this new rhythm.

Step 1: Start Washing Your Hair Less Often

If you’re currently washing your hair frequently, begin spacing out your washes.

This helps your scalp:

• Balance oil production
• Avoid irritation
• Prepare for dreadlock maintenance

Take it slowly — your scalp will adapt over time.

Step 2: Switch to a Dreadlock Shampoo

This is one of the most important steps.

Start using a dreadlock shampoo before your appointment so your hair and scalp can get used to it.

Why?

Dreadlock shampoos are:

• Free from silicones
• Designed to avoid buildup
• Created specifically for locking hair

This is very different from conventional shampoos.

Shampoo Options

You can choose between:

• Shampoo bars
• Liquid shampoos

Both clean your hair equally well — it simply comes down to preference.

✨ My tip:
Shampoo bars are often easier to use for dreadlocks because you can apply them directly to the scalp, and they tend to lather more.

My Recommended Dreadlock Shampoos

These are the products I personally trust, have used myself, and recommend to my clients:

🌿 Dreadlock Naturally

A beautiful range of natural dreadlock care products.

• All products:
  https://www.dreadlocksnaturally.com.au/dread-care-products 
• Dreadlock shampoo:
  https://www.dreadlocksnaturally.com.au/product-page/naturally-knot-dreadlock-shampoo 

🌿 Dread Empire

Great options for both bars and liquid shampoos.

• Shampoo bar:
  https://www.dreadempire.com.au/shampoo-bars/62-dread-empire-dreadlocks-shampoo-bar-0638362940612.html 
• Liquid shampoo (soothing scalp):
  https://www.dreadempire.com.au/liquid-shampoo/118-dread-empire-soothing-scalp-shampoo-0638362940544.html 

🌿 Dollylocks

A well-known brand with high-quality liquid shampoos.

• Liquid shampoo collection:
  https://dollylocks.com/collections/dollylocks-cleansing-products 

✨ Remember:
It’s not about finding the “perfect” one immediately — it’s about starting to transition your scalp and finding what works best for you.

Step 3: Stop Using Conditioner

This is essential.

From now until your appointment:
👉 Do not use any conditioner

Conditioners:

• Soften the hair too much
• Make it harder for dreadlocks to form properly
• Can leave residue that affects the locking process

Keeping your hair clean and free from buildup is key.

Step 4: Gather Your Inspiration

Before we meet, I’d love for you to start collecting photos of:

✔️ Dreadlocks you love
✔️ Dreadlocks you don’t like

This helps me clearly understand your vision so we can create something that truly reflects your style and energy.

I Can’t Wait to Meet You

I’m so excited to support you on this journey and help you create hair that feels like your dream come true.

If you have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate to reach out — I’m here for you 🤍

And when you’re ready, book your consultation using the link below.

https://calendly.com/sereneflow/zoom-konsultation-video?back=1&month=2025-07 

I can’t wait to meet you and work with your hair.

With love,
Ann-Marie