Dread rot is very scary when you have dreadlocks. But it’s not as bad as it sounds and it’s not a death sentence to your dreads. Once you take care of your dreads, then this wouldn’t happen to you.
So, what is Dread rot? This happens when you leave your dreadlocks damp often. The symptoms include an unpleasant smell when wet even after wash.
As the dead rot increases, it will smell like a wet dog or gym socks even when your dreads are dry. Also, a sudden discolouration of your dreads may indicate dread rot.
You wouldn’t get dread rot if you leave your dreads damp once or twice. However, if you continue to have damp hair or doesn’t air dry or use a blow dryer to dry your dreads then you are at risk.
To cure dreads rot:
- Essential oils- like Tea Tree.
- Baking soda and Apple Cider Vinegar.
- Dread cleanse.
How To Treat and Cure Dread Rot?
If you have dread rot, replace your regular dreads shampoo with a deep dread cleanse until the symptoms have disappeared.
How to deep cleanse your dreads?
Soak your dread in a mixture of baking soda, Apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice. You can find more information here.
Steps To Avoid Them
- Always dry your dreadlocks properly.
- Don’t tie them in a bun or wrap while damp.
- Don’t sleep on them while they are still wet.
To prevent dread rot make sure your dreads are completely dry. If you’re not sure they are dry, use a blow dryer on its lowest setting. Anything you can do to speed up the drying process will decrease your chances. Furthermore, use dread shampoos– they are designed to protect dreadlocks because they are residue-free.
If your shampoo is leaving behind a residue- that residue traps moisture inside the dreads making them prone to dread rot. Buy products that contain Tea Tree, they fight off mould and deep clean your locs regularly.
My name is Penny Thomas, I love blogging, and the founder of HTW dreads. I had dreadlocks for the past tens years. However, I cut my hair off to grow them with natural oils and no wax. Apart from my hair, I love reading and swimming.
