HUMAN HAIR DREAD

Dreadlocks, commonly called “dreads,” are a distinctive hairstyle formed by intentionally matting, twisting, and coiling sections of human hair into permanent, rope-like strands. They are characterized by:

1. Formation Process: Created through various methods (twisting and riping, backcombing, neglect/natural, interlocking, crocheting) that encourage the hair to tangle, knot, and fuse together over time.
2. Rope-Like Structure: Each individual dread resembles a cylindrical, solid rope, cord, or lock. The hair within a dread becomes tightly interlocked and inseparable without cutting.
3. Texture & Appearance:
Surface: Can range from smooth and tight to slightly fuzzy or wispy (“baby hairs”), depending on hair type, age, and maintenance.
Density: Solid and dense internally.
Size: Varies greatly in thickness (from pencil-thin to wrist-thick) and length.
Shape: Generally cylindrical, but can have organic variations, bumps, loops, or conjoined sections.
4. Natural Process: At their core, dreads form through the natural tendency of hair (especially textured hair types) to tangle and mat if left uncombed. The styling methods accelerate and guide this process.
5. Maintenance: Requires specific upkeep (separating roots, palm rolling, interlocking, washing routines) to prevent neighboring dreads from merging (“congoing”) and to maintain neatness and scalp health. They mature and harden over months and years.
6. Versatility: Can be worn loose, tied up (ponytails, buns), braided, or adorned with beads, wraps, shells, or other accessories.
7. Cultural & Personal Significance: Hold deep cultural, spiritual, religious (notably in Rastafari), and historical significance for various communities worldwide. For many wearers, they represent identity, rebellion, naturalness, faith, or a personal journey. They are also a popular aesthetic choice across diverse cultures.