Oh dreadlocks! The fickle beast of hairstyles!
They take a long time to make, and it's like exploring a whole new world!
Then once dreaded, there are some serious questions to ask yourself. What is my hair type like, what is my scalp like, how often should I wash and what should I wash with.
All of those answers will come with trial and error. I made a lot of mistakes at the beginning, and honestly it took a few years to discover the best method for my hair.
The biggest lessons I learned was this. Over washing can cause insta-dry scalp because your body is creating less oils since they aren't being brushed into the rest of your hair...but on the flip side, an under-stimulated scalp can also cause dry skin.
So, like everything else in this world, it's all about balance.
I found for myself, washing my dreads once a week or once every two weeks works really well. I pay attention to how my roots are looking and feeling. If I find that they have started to become really fizzy or my skin has started to feel dry, then I know it's time. I should also add that my dreads are completely natural, and don't use any additional products to keep them dreaded.
The other big factor to consider is what to wash them with. For a long time I used Dr. Bronner's because it's a hemp based all natural soap, but I found my best results came from the no-poo method...baking soda! I believe this is because it helps to make my roots more alkaline, removing any build up, and it also stimulates my scalp leaving it super duper happy!
To start, make sure all of your dreads are good and saturated. Then take a handful of baking soda and put a bit of water with it to make a paste. Too much water and the baking soda liquifies and you have to start all over. Next, apply it directly to your scalp starting at the front and going back. If you need more, go ahead and make another handful. Don't be afraid to really massage it in especially if this is the most your scalp had been stimulated in a while. Plus it feels great! Rinse thoroughly a few times. Then finish by spraying your roots and scalp with apple cider vinegar.
Now, once all the washing is done, if you would like to make your dreads smell really good, you can make different sprays using essential oils! I really love one that I make out of lavender and vanilla.
Like always, if you've ever considered dreadlocks...go for it! I get stopped regular by woman who whisper to me in a hushed voice that they would love to do it, but they aren't brave enough. And I am here to tell you, and I bet 
People are kind. People are good. Don't be afraid.
Thank you all for sharing this with me!
Much love,
Stacie D
