Summer Care for dreadlocks

To answer your request on summer care for locks...

Taking care of your locks in the summer is very similar to that of hair that's not locked, with few variations especially where conditioning is concerned.

Locks are fairly easy to maintain day to day; I know every few weeks you do have the task of locking your new growth and that does take time.

During the summer months while in the sun or part-taking in summer activities, you may be required to wash more often than usual. Make sure that you use a gentle clarifying shampoo to remove any residue or build up that may settle on the scalp from sweat, salt water, or products. Or try to use a shampoo that is designed not to leave any residue behind (this is very important if you have locks).

After ensuring your locks are completely dry by either air drying or sitting under a hair dryer since blow drying will leave frizz. Follow with a light or non-oily based moisturizer created specifically for dreadlocks (like Carol's Daughter Loc Butter); there are many other.

In between washes you could clean your scalp with witch hazel or sea breeze. If you have mature locks, you probably already know that. Remember that you have to keep your scalp moisturized and nourished to maintain healthy locks and a healthy scalp. So, deep condition your hair/locks and scalp using a non-oily based hot oil treatment.

Stay away from alcohol and alcohol based products. Also look out for these ingredients in your hair products, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfates. They will dry out your hair and scalp and/or lead to irritation. Sulfates that are generally found in shampoos will strip your hair of it natural oils.

Locks are usually are thick and heavy and it would be a lot more comfortable if you wear your locks up and away from your neck & face to keep you cool. There are many really creative and attractive styles for locks. Many popular hair style publications do feature a section for natural hair and locks.

Ms. Naturesk

Excellence in Beauty!