A Beginner’s Guide to Synthetic Dread Extensions

Dreadlocks are hard work; you have to tear up your hair with heavy backcombing and waxing. They are a commitment that requires a lot of love and work. But you don’t have to give up on them completely!

Synthetic dreads are perfect for people who have always loved the look of dreadlocks, but have never wanted to commit to them, or those who want dreads but are not sure if they will suit them. The beauty of synthetic dreads is that you can custom design them to your specifications, they can be wild and colorful or simply and natural, and can be worn as either ‘falls’ or ‘extensions’.

Falls are dreads mounted on pieces of elastic that can be tied onto a ponytail. They are ideal for those who like to be able to change their hair easily. They are simply a matter of putting them on as you would your favorite top, and then taking them off and hanging them up when you are finished with them.

Wearing falls is easy, but they can take a few attempts to get comfortable. To wear a fall you need to be able to get your hair into a ponytail or bun. To ensure they do not pull on your hair and give you a terrible headache, try to make your ponytail as high on your head as possible. Also stabilising them with bobby pins helps take the strain off. If you have long, thick hair it will be strong enough to hold more dreads. If your hair is on the weak side, or shortish, you may find the weight of the larger count dreads hard to wear.

If you want a more permanent dreadlocked look, extensions are the way to go. It is a simple process that involves plaiting the dreadlock into your hair and securing with a rubber band. To be able to install dreads, your hair must be longer than 3 inches and strong.

Synthetic dreads are a great way to express your individuality, to wear with cosplay or costumes, for clubbing or just for those who need a change. So set yourself apart from the crowd and get some synthetic dreads on your head!

Pictures supplied by www.x-tensibility.com