Top 7 Dreadlock Maintenance Tips for Healthy, Long-Lasting Locs

From the Dread Love Team – Toronto

Locs might be low-maintenance compared to other styles, but they still deserve consistent care if you want them to last. Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been locking for years, here are our go-to tips to keep your hair strong and healthy.

1. Wash Every 1–2 Weeks

Keeping your locs clean is key. But it matters what you use. At Dread Love, we recommend one of our natural shampoo bars, made for locs:

• African Black Soap Shampoo Bar – great for deep cleaning buildup and oil
• Glycerin & Hibiscus Shampoo Bar – gentle, softening, and residue-free

Skip the conditioners — they can loosen the hair and interrupt the locking process.

2. Dry Thoroughly

After washing, always make sure your locs are fully dry before tying them up or sleeping. Trapped moisture can lead to mildew or odor over time. Air dry or use low heat, and pat gently with a microfiber towel.

3. Palm Roll for Structure

Palm rolling helps maintain the shape of each loc and keeps new growth tidy. You don’t need to overdo it — just a few rolls after each wash or every couple weeks can make a big difference.

4. Moisturize Your Scalp

A clean scalp still needs moisture. Our handmade Scalp Oil is blended to soothe itching and dryness without heavy buildup. It’s lightweight, absorbs well, and keeps your roots healthy — especially during colder weather or in dry environments.

5. Use Dread Wax (But Only the Right Kind)

Not all wax is good wax. That’s why we make our own.

Dread Love Dread Wax is formulated specifically for locs with only three simple ingredients:

• Safe, local beeswax
• Coconut oil
• A touch of sea salt

It’s easy to wash out, leaves no buildup, and gives just enough hold to shape starter locs or control frizz during palm rolling. Less is more — once every couple weeks is usually enough.

6. Protect Your Hair While Sleeping (Optional)

Use a satin or silk scarf, bonnet, or pillowcase when you sleep. It cuts down on friction, prevents breakage, and keeps your hair looking neat in the morning.

7. Get Regular Maintenance

Come and see me every now and then! A little professional touch-up goes a long way. Whether it’s root tightening, reshaping, or extension upkeep — we’ve got you. Most of our clients come in between every 6 weeks to every 6 months! It just depends on their needs.

Final Thoughts

Dreadlocks are more than a style — they’re a journey. I understand this fact. A little consistent care and the right products can keep them clean, strong, and beautiful for years to come.

We make all our products by hand, right here in Toronto. No fillers. No petroleum. Just what your hair actually needs to thrive. I actually care, so I try really hard to provide you with knowledge as well as services and products!