What is Synthetic Dreadlocks: a Complete Explanation

We’ll discuss their various applications, advantages, and maintenance instructions in this article.

Dreadlocks can be added to the wearer’s hair with synthetic extensions. Although installing synthetic dreadlocks can be expensive, it might be an option for those who don’t want to commit to wearing their own natural hair in dreads. They come in different colors and can be applied to both dreaded and undreaded hair.

To learn more about synthetic dreadlocks, please read this article.

What Are Synthetic Dreadlocks?

You braid synthetic hair into your natural hair to create synthetic dreadlocks. They can therefore be easily removed again if you decide you no longer want them or if you prefer a different color or length.

Although you can add extra length to “real” dreadlocks made of real hair using synthetic hair, we advise using real hair instead because it is more durable and does not appear “artificial” when compared to your own hair.

The dreads we sell are made of henlon hair because it produces the highest quality synthetic dreads among the various materials that can be used to create them. As they are entirely crocheted without twists, synthetic dreadlocks are lightweight, flexible, and very durable.

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What Type of Synthetic Dreadlocks Should I Choose?

Singled Ended Dreadlocks, also known as SE Dreadlocks, are dreadlocks with a loop or “eye” at the top that you use to attach to your hair when talking about synthetic dreadlocks.

The other variety is called “Double Ended,” or DE, and it is characterized by having two long ends that are braided together in the middle. To add layers and fullness to the hair, you could also choose to braid the hair closer to one end.

With double-ended dreadlocks, you get two dreads in one section of hair, which generally results in more fullness.

Single Ended Dreadlocks

One end of SE dreads is made with a loop. Let’s look at installation methods.

• If you don’t have dreadlocks

You’ll need some mini elastic bands and a rat tail comb. Hair should be divided first. Then:

1. Pick a section of hair and pass it through the loop of your SE dread
2. Pull the loop as close to the roots as possible
3. Separate your section of hair in two and braid them together with the synthetic dreadlock in a 3-strand braid
4. Then secure everything with a mini elastic band
5. Repeat the steps with the next sections

At least 50 SE dreadlocks are advised for a full head.

• If you already have dreadlocks

To give your natural dreads a little more volume or color, use SE dreads. For installation:

1. Insert the tip of your SE dreadlock in its loop and pull it through, but stop before the end
2. You’ll have a bigger loop now, that can be tightened
3. Insert one of your natural dreads in this loop, making sure the loop is as close to the roots as possible and tighten it to hold it in place

Double Ended Dreadlocks

DE dreads are folded in half, making each one appear to be two dreadlocks, and they literally have the appearance of double dreads.

Let’s see the different uses:

• If you don’t have dreadlocks

With DE dreadlocks, you can create fewer sections of hair with the same number of dreads because each section of hair has two dreads. Because of this, installing DE dreads is frequently faster. For installation, you’ll need mini elastic bands and a rat tail comb, and to know how to create sections.

1. Once you have your sections, pick one to start
2. The DE dread will be placed with its middle segment on top of the roots of your section
3. Then you’ll split the section in two and braid together those two parts plus one-half of the DE dread
4. If you already have dreadlocks:

Simply tie your DE dread around your natural dread and pull it as close to the roots as you can. It’s advised to tie this knot in the back of your head because it might be quite noticeable.

Do Synthetic Dreadlock Extensions Damage Your Hair?

It might take some time to get used to wearing fake dreadlocks because they can be bulky and uncomfortable.

Another issue is that the plastic the dreads are made of may cause an allergic reaction in your skin. Your extensions may irritate your scalp and other skin areas they touch. After a few days, the itching usually stops. When this happens, wearing synthetic hair may become challenging or impossible.

Can You Wash Synthetic Dreads?

Synthetic dreads can be cleaned fairly easily. Even when wearing locs, you can wash your hair and take a shower. Simply use a shampoo designed for dreadlocks and omit the conditioner. To create rich leather, use a typical amount of shampoo and your fingertips. With your fingertips, gently rub the scalp.

Make sure to thoroughly rinse the dreads to remove any remaining residue. Let the hair air dry.

Washing the hair in the morning will help to ensure that it is completely dry before going to bed because dreads take a while to air dry.

Don’t wash your dreads more frequently than necessary. It would be best to wait between 7 and 10 days. Dreads that are washed more frequently have a messier appearance and live less time. When synthetic hair isn’t freshly washed, it won’t absorb sebum oils from the scalp and won’t look greasy.

Synthetic materials, on the other hand, frequently absorb odors from smoke and other toxins. On days when you don’t wash your clothes, use a shower cap when you’re in the shower.

How to Dry Your Synthetic Loc Extensions?

Wrap your head in a microfiber towel after thoroughly rinsing the shampoo off. Allow your dreads to air dry if the instruction says not to use a blow dryer. Changing the towel a few times will help the drying process go more quickly.

Also, keep in mind that washing your hair in the morning will give it enough time to completely dry before going to bed.

How to Soften Synthetic Dreads?

New synthetic dreads might initially be stiff and shine artificially. Soak fresh dreads in boiling water for 30 seconds to make them more flexible. Additionally, by removing some of the shine, they will appear more realistic. Be careful not to boil you locs for too long as hot water can lighten the color and harm synthetic fibers.

The recommended temperature range for your dreads can be found in the instructions, so read them carefully. Additionally, some dread types are softer than others, so they don’t need to be placed in boiling water. All you need to do to make the ends pleasantly soft is roll them. Wearing them will also make them appear more natural.

How Long Can You Keep Synthetic Dreads In?

Be aware that wearing synthetic dreadlocks nonstop for an extended period of time is not advised. Take them out after a month or two to clear your head. Make sure to give your hair some deep conditioning treatments during the recovery period because the extensions put stress on it.

If they are still in good condition after a week, install them back. Without spending a fortune, you can purchase a set of a brand-new one.

Conclusion: Synthetic Dreadlocks

Typically, synthetic hair is used to create synthetic dreadlocks. Dreadlocks made of synthetic hair can be applied at home or in a salon by the wearer. While many wearers choose to purchase custom-made colored and styled dreadlock extensions, some choose to make their own extensions at home with hair extension material.

Enjoy your new look without making any long-term commitments!

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