Dreadlocks are not just a hairstyle, they’re a commitment to care and maintenance. While they can be low-maintenance in some ways, buildup is a common challenge that can compromise the health, look, and longevity of your locs. Whether you’re new to dreadlocks or have been rocking them for years, understanding how to prevent and remove buildup is essential.
Let’s break it all down.
Understanding Dreadlocks and Buildup
Buildup in dreadlocks comes from a mix of product residue, environmental pollutants, dead skin cells, and even hard water minerals. Since dreadlocks don’t shed hair the way loose styles do, all of these elements can get trapped inside the locs over time.
Signs of buildup include:
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A white or grayish cast inside the locs
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Musty odor - even after washing
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Itchiness or excessive irritation on the scalp
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Dull or heavy-feeling hair
How to Prevent Buildup in Dreadlocks
The best way to manage buildup is to prevent it before it starts. Prevention begins with your routine and the products you choose.
Choosing the Right Hair Products
Look for natural residue-free, water-soluble products specifically formulated for dreadlocks. Avoid anything with wax, heavy oils, silicone, or sulfates.
That’s why Dreadlock stylists world wide recommend Dollylocks products! All of our products are lightweight, organic, plant-based, cruelty-free, residue- free, water-soluble and formulated especially for dreadlocks. They cleanse and nourish without leaving residue behind.
Keep Your Dreadlocks Clean
Consistency is key. Clean locs = healthy locs.
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Wash your dreadlocks every 7–10 days.
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Use a residue-free shampoo like Dollylocks Liquid Shampoo.
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Massage your scalp and squeeze the shampoo through your dreadlocks.
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Wash, Rinse and Repeat, as many times as needed.
Proper Drying Technique
After washing, make sure your dreadlocks dry completely to avoid mildew and odor.
Tips:
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Use a microfiber towel to absorb excess water
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Air-dry in the sun if possible, or use a dryer on low heat
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Avoid tying up your hair when it’s wet
Maintain a Healthy Scalp
A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy dreadlocks. Keep it clean, moisturized, and balanced with:
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Dollylocks Conditioning Oil (especially for dry, itchy areas)
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Regular scalp massages to boost circulation
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Use Dollylocks Cleansing Spray in-between wash days as needed
Regular Maintenance
Dreadlock maintenance helps prevent buildup from embedding deeper into your dreadlocks.
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Separate locs to prevent them from growing together
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Palm roll or crochet (as needed) use Dollylocks Locking Powder to absorb oil
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See a Dreadlock Stylist for professional advice or to address issues like weak spots
How to Remove Buildup in Dreadlocks
If you already have buildup, don’t worry! It’s common and totally manageable with the right routine.
Deep Cleaning Your Dreadlocks
A deep cleanse flushes out trapped debris and resets your pH for a fresh start, we recommend the Dollylocks Detox. This should be done every 3–4 months, or more often if you:
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Live in a hard water area
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Use multiple styling or drugstore products
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Are switching to Dollylocks
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Have Loc-rot (Caused by improper drying leading to mildew)
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Sweat on a regular bases
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Work/live in an environment that would cause elemental build up
Using a Clarifying Shampoo
A clarifying shampoo like the Dollylocks Liquid Shampoo helps break down buildup. Use approximately once a week or whenever a wash day is needed.
Steps:
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Wet your hair thoroughly
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Dispense a quarter size amount into hand and distribute onto the scalp area
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Repeat the application process sectioning hair until fully applied to the scalp
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Rinse thoroughly
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Wash, Rinse and Repeat as many times as needed. (We recommend at least twice)
How to Do a Dreadlock Detox
Ready to take it a step further? Check out the Dollylocks Detox Bundle, your go-to for a truly deep clean.
Detox Guidelines to Follow:
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Fill the Dollylocks Detox Basin (or any large receptacle) with warm water
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Add the Dollylocks Detox Powder and wait until fully dissolved
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Soak your dreadlocks for 10–20 minutes, making sure all locs are submerged
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Gently squeeze and massage your locs while soaking to release buildup
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Rinse thoroughly with clean water
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Follow up with Dollylocks Shampoo and Conditioner for best results
✅ Pro tip: Always detox your dreadlocks when switching to Dollylocks to remove lingering product buildup.
Make It a Ritual
Dreadlock detoxing isn’t just maintenance, it’s a self-care wellness ritual. Treat it like a reset, a refresh, and a way to reconnect with your hair.
Add it to your seasonal hair routine, or plan one around a personal milestone like a birthday or Holiday for a clean, new beginning!
Final Thoughts
Dreadlocks are unique and beautiful and they deserve the right care. Preventing and removing buildup keeps them healthy, light, and vibrant.
Whether you're doing a regular wash or a full-on detox soak, Dollylocks has everything you need to maintain your dreadlocks with confidence.
Most of all.... Have Fun and Love your Hair!
