From Synthetic to Real Dreads: Stella’s 2 Year Transformation Journey

From Synthetic to Real Dreads: Stella’s 2 Year Transformation Journey

Thinking about getting Dreadlocks but not ready for the "permanent" commitment? You aren’t alone! Many of our clients at the Dreadshop Salon start their journey with a "test drive."

Today, we’re spotlighting Stella, a loyal client who used Synthetic Extensions as a bridge to her dream look: natural Real Dreadlocks. Here is how she did it.

5 Dreadlock Myths We’re Leaving Behind in 2026 Reading From Synthetic to Real Dreads: Stella’s 2 Year Transformation Journey 3 minutes

The Starting Point: Testing the Look

Stella came to us with thick, curly hair (Type 4a/4b). She wanted a style that was manageable but full of personality. Instead of jumping straight into permanent locks, she started with Synthetic Locks of Love Extensions.

  • The Choice: Synthetic Dreads in "Original" thickness.
  • The Colors: She experimented with bold looks, like a mix of Maroon and Red Maple, and later tried Caramel Twist and Wild Ocean.
  • The Benefit: This gave Stella a good year to get used to the weight, the care routine and the "dreadlock lifestyle" without any long term changes to her own hair.
Dreadshop Salon customer with partial dreadlock extensions in bright red colors with shaved sides Dreadshop Salon customer with partial dreadlock extensions in teal and brown ombre colors with shaved sides Dreadshop Salon customer with partial dreadlock extensions in natural colors with shaved sides

The Transition: Choosing Real Dreads

After a year of playing with colors and lengths, Stella was "sold." She knew dreads were her signature style. Working with our and her trusted stylists, Diane and Suzanne, she made the big move: Real Dreadlocks with Human Hair Extensions.

By adding human hair extensions to her natural locks, she achieved instant length and volume that looks and feels completely natural.

Watch Stella's transformation from when she got her dream Real Dreads below👇:

Why This "Roadmap" is a Good Way to Start

If you are on the fence, starting with synthetics is a great way to transition into the look you want. Stella’s journey shows that you can:

  • Test the Volume: See how your scalp handles the dreadlocks.
  • Find Your Color: Experiment with different shades before committing to a specific look for your real hair.
  • Learn the Care: Get into the dreadlock washing and aftercare routine. Though the care routine for synthetic dreads and real dreads is quite different.

While Real Dreads are a long term commitment, they don't have to be intimidating. It is possible to comb them out if your journey ever changes, though it is a process that requires time and patience. By starting with temporary extensions, you ensure that by the time you commit to Real Dreads, you truly know they are right for you.

Continuing the Journey

Stella now visits the salon regularly ( every two- three months) for a professional maintenance, to keep her real dreads tight and healthy. It’s this consistent care that allows her dreads to mature beautifully over time.

Are you ready to start your own transformation?

  • Shop Locks of Love and get your look.
  • Book a Consultation at our salon to plan your journey towards Real Dreads, or to discuss any doubts or questions you have.

 

Loved Stella's transformation? Read about more real life dreadlock journeys on our Customer Stories Page.