Unlike in the past when dreadlocks were limited to specific cultures or hair types, nowadays, they are worn by people from all cultures. You admire locks, but lack the patience to grow them on your head since long, beautiful dreadlocks require long-term commitment.
You eventually decide to sport them but you are unsure whether you will have the patience to let them grow long. Also, the cost of maintaining them might put you off.
The good news is that you can get synthetic dreads which can easily be attached and removed. They can be sewn or braided and do not require high maintenance costs. They look great, and natural, week after week.
What's more, they are readily available in beauty shops.
Here are other advantages of synthetic dreads:
Colour: synthetic dreadlocks are available in several colours.
Gratification: Synthetic dreadlocks allow instant gratification. Getting natural dreadlocks takes months and some people may not be willing to wait that long thus, synthetic is their best course of action.
Washing: Synthetic dreadlocks can be washed using shampoo or conditioner. They do accumulate build-up like natural dreadlocks, so use a residue-free shampoo. You should wash them at least once a week not more, otherwise, they will frizz.
The disadvantages include:
Longevity: Synthetic dreadlocks have a short lifespan unlike natural dreadlocks which one can sport for years. Also, you cannot leave them on your hair for long as they are bound to damage your real hair.
When you decide to rock synthetic dreadlocks, pick the colour wisely. Choose a colour that will blend with your hair colour so that it looks natural. Secondly, synthetic dreadlocks can be quite heavy so keep them short.
How to care for them: You can treat them almost just like your normal hair. Oil your scalp, and wash and condition the locs at most once a week.
Always wear a shower while showering when you are not washing them. Get one that is large to cover them completely.
Never use any form of heat to dry synthetic locs. They are plastic and can easily melt.
Do not wear synthetic dreads for more than three months at a time.