Gray hair has a different structure
Do you have gray hair? Then you’ve probably noticed that this hair type is different in texture than the hair that’s not gray yet. As you age, your hair loses density and elasticity. Natural gray hair is very stiff and hard in texture.
Melanin plays a role in the suppleness of your hair. Because your gray hair has less melanin and is losing it, it’s generally drier and harder than regular hair, so it also curls more often. This makes it more difficult to dread gray hair because the hair is simply more stubborn and can look frizzy quicker. In very rare cases it won't allow itself to be dreaded at all, when the hair is very thick and coarse.
Often with a new texture comes a struggle over control. You want your hair to do something (stay in your dreads, for example) and it does the opposite. Therefore, it is also important to develop a good routine in caring for your dreads, including the products you use, and stick to it consistently, this can help train your hair to work with you.
Also realize that frizz is normal and natural with dreadlocks.
So is it even possible to have real dreads made from gray hair?
In the vast majority of cases it is certainly possible! It may just be necessary to adjust your expectations a bit, you will probably quicker than usual have more problems with loose hairs/frizz and it will be necessary to touch up your dreads a bit more often than with not gray hair dreads.
When you have new dreads created from your already a bit gray hair, the first phase (read more here about different phases your dreads go through ) in which your dreads still are quite frizzy can last a bit longer than usual. It’s because the stiff stubborn gray hairs won’t want to stay in your dreads as easily.
Gray dreadlocks and care
Of course, you want to take the best care of your gray dreadlocks so they look beautiful and healthy for longer. But which products are best to use with gray hair?
Because gray hair can feel quite dry, we recommend using dreadlock products for dry hair. A good moisturizing shampoo is very important in dread care, that’s why in this case we recommend the Dollylocks Dreadlock Shampoo or the RAWROOTs Hydrating Dreadlock Shampoo.
Another great product for dry hair is the Aloe Manuka gel from RAWROOTs. This gel strengthens dreadlocks due to the natural aloe vera ingredient.
Or the Dollylocks Tightening Serum, it contains Aloe barbadensis leaf juice, derived from the aloe vera plant, it’s a natural and plant-based ingredient known for its hydrating and soothing properties, making it excellent for hair and scalp health. Additionally, aloe vera is also a great ingredient for tightening your dreads.
Preferably use the Tightening Serum or a gel, in place of Tightening Spray. The Spray contains more salts and can actually cause your gray hair to become even drier.
A Conditioning Oil or Hydrating Oil can also be a great addition for your dreads and scalp, to give them some extra moisture. Here you can find RAWROOTs kit, especially designed for dry hair.
Maintenance
Because the gray hairs are so stubborn and go their own way, your outgrowth will start to become frizzy quicker than usual, which means you might need to have your dreads maintained a bit more often than average. This also depends on how quickly you are bothered by the look of your dreads. Some people like their dreads neater, while others don’t mind a messier look. Our advice is to have your dreads touched up every 3-4 months, in the case of gray dreadlocks it can be better to have this done more often. Just keep in mind to follow what feels good for you!
Tip: use a tiny bit of Locking Powder while maintaining your outgrowth, this makes your hair stiffer and can help keep the stubborn frizzy hairs to stay longer in your dreads by the outgrowth, overall making your dreadlocks less frizzy for longer.
Did you know?
You can also have your dreadlocks maintained in our Salon!
❗️Are your dreads frizzy and you’d like them to look neat and healthy, e.g. for a party? Then the Tightening Serum is perfect for this. Tame your frizz while hydrating and nourishing your hair, a perfect product to tame the hair while styling your dreads.
In short: Embrace your gray dreadlocks and frizz, be consistent with your care routine and remember about more often, regular maintenance. And your beautiful gray dreads will be just fine!
