Hot Water Treatment for Dreadlocks

One of the more common complaints folks have about dreadlocks is that they're afraid of getting "stuff" trapped inside.  Unfortunately, much of this can't be avoided cause facts are, everyday lint and dust will be attracted to your dreads so if you're the type who sits and twists randomly, you may be twisting that stuff right into your hair.

Ok so no matter how much we shampoo, we'll never be able to penetrate that inner core of our locks.  Even people who claim to wash their dreads daily will experience some form of build-up as their locks mature so there's no need to panic or rip your locks open out of fear.

If you have residue build-up and have noticed that your locks are still oily after shampooing, you may want to try a hot water bath.  Generally, very hot water isn't recommended for use on hair because it can result in dryness and may damage fragile hair.  So this is a treatment you don't want to use regularly, but it's good for those of us who mistakenly use petrolatums or mineral oil based products.

CAUTION: This method is best for those with mature, longer dreads (12 inches or more).  For folks with shorter hair, you can attempt this method but do so with very warm water as opposed to hot.  All readers, focus the water on the ends of your locks and NOT your scalp.  Your goal is to heat up your locks, not your head.  Lastly, be aware of your faucet's temperature settings.  Allow the water to run for several minutes.  If it's scalding hot, it's best to turn on some of the cold water as to avoid any potential problems.

naani's not responsible for you burning your head.  If the water is too hot to the touch and you're a little weary that you may get it on your scalp, simply turn on some of the cold until you get the temperature down to a tolerable level.

DIRECTIONS: 

• After shampooing and conditioning your hair, tip your locks forward letting the fall towards your face. 

• While at the kitchen sink or kneeling before the tub (I like the sink better because the stream of water is smaller and you're less likely to accidently get the hot water on your scalp), turn on the hot water.  Allow it to run for several minutes and then test the temperature.  If it's too hot for you to handle, turn on some of the cold.

• Being careful, position your dreads...and ONLY your dreads under faucet.  Allow the water to run through your locks for several minutes.  Be sure to tilt your hair towards the water vs. the water towards your hair.

The benefits of this treatment is not only are you insuring that you've rinsed all of the shampoo and conditioner out of your hair, but for those of you who are product junkies, the hot water will melt any residue and hopefully wash it down the drain.

Another added benefit is that the hot water will create a natural steam.  All types of hair love humidity and you'll find that your hair is longer and bouncier in humid conditions.

• After rinsing, towel dry hair.  While your hair is still damp and your locks steamy, wrap your dreads in the towel.  The steam radiating from your hair will act as a natural sauna.  After several minutes take down the towel and style as desired.

• * Now, if you're the type who's prone to mildew or other odor/bacterial problems, you may want to do a cold water rinse instead of allowing the hair to remain heated for too long..  This will inhibit any growth that might occur.

Finally, another word of caution.  This isn't something that you want to do every shampoo.  Although dreads are strong, they too deserve a degree of consideration.  Very hot water can be drying and damaging to the hair overtime but with occassional use, this hot-water treatment can do wonders