Exploring Different Colored Dreads
different colored dreads allow you to make a vibrant statement with your hairstyle. While many opt for keeping their dreads in natural hues, adding bright colors creates a bold, artistic effect. Vivid dyes can complement your skin tone, reflect your personality, or just add playful pops throughout your locs. There are endless options for experimenting with different colored dreads.
Benefits of Colored Dreads
Some key benefits of coloring your dreads include:
- Allows self-expression with unique color combinations
- Makes your dreads stand out in a crowd
- Fun way to change up your style without cutting hair
- Provides a less permanent option than dyeing regular hair
- Opportunity to match colors to your makeup or wardrobe
- Colors can gradually fade for an ombre effect over time
- Can use semi-permanent or temporary colors to switch it up
The beauty of dreads is you can experiment with different vibrant shades if you want a temporary change.
Best Dye Formulas for Dreads
Certain dye types work better on coarse dread textures:
- Semi-permanent dyes – Popular choice that coats the exterior of dreads for vivid color that gradually washes out over 4-8 weeks. Can be reapplied.
- Temporary colors – Lasts 1-3 shampoos. Easy to switch up colors. Some formulas specially formulated for synthetic and natural dreads.
- Permanent dye – Longest lasting but requires more upkeep. Will visibly grow out as dreads grow like regular colored hair. Can damage synthetic fibers.
Avoid wax-based dyes which may flake. Consult a loctician if unsure about chemicals interacting with products already on your locs.
Pre-Color Prep and Precautions
Take these steps before dyeing your dreads:
- Clarify and deep clean locs with a residue removing shampoo 1-2 weeks before coloring.
- Check for skin sensitivities by doing a patch test of dye on your inner arm before applying to scalp.
- Wear gloves during application to avoid staining hands. Use petroleum jelly on skin at hairline.
- Separate each loc completely before applying dye. Use foils between locs to prevent color transfer.
Proper prep prevents unwanted color mess and ensures the dye takes evenly.
All-Over Color Techniques
Some techniques for achieving full-head colored locs:
Solid Color All Over
- Saturate length of every loc individually with desired dye color using applicator bottle, gloved hands, or foils.
- Process according to dye directions based on loc density.
- Rinse until water runs clear.
Ombre/Root Fade
- Dye loc ends first, increasing saturation towards tips.
- Let set, then apply more diluted dye mid-length for transition shades.
- Leave roots undyed. Style in updo to blend colors.
Rainbow Dreads
- Divide locs into sections. Apply a different vivid hue to each section – pink, purple, blue, yellow, etc.
- For pastel rainbow, dilute dyes with conditioner first.
- Wrap finished sections in foil to avoid bleeding between colors.
Highlighting and Lowlight Techniques
- For highlights, use foils to separate out locs you want dyed. Apply dye.
- For lowlights, foil highlight pieces you want to remain undyed. Dye surrounding locs.
- Use a spare toothbrush dipped in dye and run along loc lengths to paint intermittent streaks.
Strategic dye placement creates fun effects.
Dyeing Locs Directly at Roots
Exercise caution when applying dye directly to the scalp due to absorption concerns:
- Consult a doctor before using chemical dyes at scalp if you have skin conditions or allergies. Do a patch test.
- Opt for natural vegetable based dyes. Avoid ammonia and bleach at scalp.
- Apply petroleum jelly generously along hairline and ears to protect skin.
- Choose semi-permanent or temporary formulas that wash out more easily.
- Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear. Do not scratch or disturb scalp.
Color Maintenance for Dyed Locs
To make colored locs last as long as possible:
- Shampoo less frequently, using only sulfate-free formulas. Rinse with cool water.
- Deep condition weekly to prevent drying of locs from dye chemicals.
- Apply new dye or color-depositing conditioner when color starts fading.
- Avoid pool water, salt water, and excessive sun exposure to make colors last longer.
- Use color-protecting conditioner and styling products.
Proper care keeps vivid loc color vibrant for weeks.
Trendy Color Palettes for Dyed Locs
Some of today’s most popular color schemes for locs include:
Rainbow
Multiple vivid shades like purple, turquoise, yellow, pink, green
Pastel
Washed out tints like lavender, mint, baby pink, peach
Mermaid
Blues and greens like teal, seafoam green, deep cobalt blue
‘90s Throwback
Nostalgic brights like electric blue, magenta, orange, neon green
Jewel Tones
Deep hues like emerald, sapphire, rich purple, ruby red
Monochrome
Different shades and tones of the same color family
Inspiring Examples of Dyed Locs
Get creative inspiration from these images of beautifully colored dreadlocks:
[Insert 2-3 images showcasing vibrantly dyed dreadlocks in creative colors/patterns]
FAQs About Different Colored Dreads
How long does dye last on dreadlocks?
With proper care, semi-permanent dye can last 4-6 weeks on locs. Permanent color endures much longer but requires touch-ups as locs grow out.
Can you bleach dreadlocks then dye?
It’s possible but risks major dryness and damage. Avoid bleaching entire locs. Consider removable colored extensions instead for lighter hues.
Do you have to re-dye the roots of colored dreadlocks?
As locs grow out, re-dye roots 1-2 inches every 6-8 weeks to maintain color vibrancy at the scalp area if desired.
Can you dye over faded colored dreadlocks?
Yes, as the color fades you can refresh it or apply a new bolder shade. Ensure hair is healthy first and deep condition after re-dyeing.
Should you dye locs yourself or professionally?
Either works but a pro loctician has experience selecting proper dye types and techniques. They can also safely bleach and color synthetic locs.
Can all dreadlock types be dyed?
Yes, wool, synthetic, human hair, and natural locs can be dyed but some formulas adhere better to certain textures. Consult a stylist.
Do colored locs damage your hair?
Dyed locs are prone to dryness and breakage over time. Take extra care to condition frequently and avoid harsh manipulation when colored.
Is it better to dye locs before or after starting them?
Most locticians recommend waiting until the locs have fully locked, usually 6-10 months. But either way can work.
Can you still wash dyed dreadlocks as frequently?
No, minimize washing dyed locs to every 2-4 weeks max if possible. Use dry shampoo to refresh in between. Frequent washing fades color faster.
Conclusion
If you’re seeking a fun way to transform your look, trying different colored dreads allows you to get creative. Vivid dyes let you play with rainbow palettes or complement your complexion with customized hues. With the right prep, technique and care, dyed locs offer artistic flair that makes a statement and showcases your unique personality. Consult a skilled loctician if you need help achieving the perfect colorful loc masterpiece.
