Finding a low-maintenance hairstyle is no easy feat. From constantly searching the internet to adding inspirational pins to your Pinterest moldboard, there are so many options to choose from. All in all, searching for the perfect low-maintenance style is fairly difficult, which is why having a bit of help in choosing the right one for yourself, is key to an enjoyable experience. Whether it’s a simple two-braid style or freeform dreads, to name a few, protective styles offer us a bit of refuge from having to constantly do our hair.
Freeform dreads, also known as organic locs, form naturally without the use of any deliberate styling techniques. Unlike traditional dreadlocks, which are typically styled by using various methods such as twisting, palm rolling, and interlocking, freeform locs allow the hair to naturally mat and tangle on its own over time. When styling freeform locs, leaving the hair to naturally clump can take a few months to years depending on the hair’s texture and length. They have a unique and organic appearance which is what makes this style a must for natural hair goers near and far.
How To Achieve And Maintain Freeform Dreads
In order to achieve this easy-to-maintain style, the guide below will tell you everything there is to know.
Stop Combing and Brushing
To begin the freeform locs journey, you need to stop combing, brushing, and manipulating your hair regularly. Let your hair be free and allow it to start tangling and forming natural knots.
Regular Washing
While you are transitioning to freeform locs, continue to wash your hair regularly. Keeping your scalp clean is essential for healthy hair growth and loc formation. Use a residue-free shampoo and follow up with a light conditioner to keep your hair moisturized.
Hands-Off Approach
Refrain from playing with your hair too much, as excessive touching can prevent the natural matting and locking process. Avoid using hair products that leave residue or buildup, as they may interfere with the loc formation.
Separate Larger Clumps
As your hair starts to form tangles and clumps, you may need to separate larger sections to prevent loc clustering. This separation process helps maintain the individuality of each loc.
Be Patient
Freeform locs take time to develop, and the process can vary for each person depending on hair texture, length, and other factors. It may take several months or even years for your locs to fully mature.
Regular Maintenance
While freeform locs are low-maintenance, basic care is still necessary. Continue to wash your hair regularly, keep your scalp clean, and gently separate any large clumps that might be forming.
Embrace the Journey
Freeform locs are unique and unpredictable, and each person’s journey is different. Embrace the natural beauty of your locs as they form and enjoy the freedom of letting your hair do its thing.
Is a Stylist Needed For Freeform Dreads?
A loctician is not needed to achieve freeform locs, however, they can certainly help to style them in the way you would like while providing important information on how to properly care for them. As your hair starts to grow, styling freeform locs will become more manageable over time as you don’t need much technique to style them.
What Else Is There To Know?
Although freeform locs are extremely low maintenance, it’s important to know that they still require a bit of TLC. Whether it’s regular washing and conditioning, keeping the scalp clean, avoiding excessive manipulation, keeping up with hair cuts and trims, and tieing the locs while sleeping, taking care of them goes hand in hand with the growth process and your hair’s overall health.
It’s essential to know that freeform locs are a personal journey and that not every one’s hair will loc the same. By being adaptable and staying with the process, this carefree aesthetic will eventually feel well worth the try.