Dreads


Dreads are a quick and easy way of transforming your hair. The dreads I make come in the form of dread kits and falls. Both are temporary, easy to install and can be reused. Below you will find some information about dreads, the styles I make, and also some aftercare tips.


Dread Kits

Dread kits are a brilliant solution for those who don’t want to commit to real dreadlocks but who want them to last a while. Dreads generally come in either single or double-ended forms. Single-ended dreads have a loop at one end, whereas double-ended dreads are folded over. In both cases, they are braided into a small section of your own hair and secured with an elastic band. Your hair needs to be about 3" long at least to braid the dreads in securely. People generally prefer single-ended dreads because they lie more naturally on the head and are great when you don't want a giant head of dreads, and double-ended dreads because they're easier to install and normally give a fuller look. There are benefits to both methods and you can even combine the two.

        


Falls

Falls are made with the same type of dreads as you would find in a kit, however they are attached to a piece of lace or elastic. They come in pairs, and you install them by creating two buns on your head with your own hair, and tying them around to create pigtails. They're perfect for a night out! The great thing about falls is that they can be installed and removed so quickly. It's also much easier to add other media such as tubing, crin, foam or lace to your head. When styling for photoshoots we often create the appearance of full heads of dreads using falls - it's all about the positioning and how you cover your own hair. You can install (or even just pin) a few loose dreads at the front, or use loose weft in the same colour as the dreads to mask the front of your own hair. Secure the falls well with a few pins, and away you go!

     


Styles of dread

Every dread maker creates their own style of dread and Pink Pirate Hair is no different. Typically the dreads are skinny (1cm thick), well tapered, and have either a smooth, organic, or braided texture. Smooth dreads are neatly twisted with the minimum amount of “fuzz”, organic dreads are a little rougher round the edges and sealed differently so they look more like natural dreads, and braided dreads are very highly textured and organic.

  


We also make dreads in different styles:

     

There are so many different ways to make dreads, the best thing when having a go yourself is to experiment! It takes a lot of practice, and some of the lovely people of the hair extensions community have made amazing tutorials. Check out the links page - I've included as many as possible and update it when there's something new and awesome to see!

Aftercare

All dreads get wear and tear, especially dread kits. When they’re on your head, they can be washed but may get very heavy and take an age to dry. Ideally, you can pin your dreads back and wash your scalp, and use a product like Febreeze on the dreads if you need to. After you’ve taken them out, the best thing to do is tie them together, put them in a washbag or pillowcase, and put them on either a handwash or 30 degree/cool cycle. Never wash them hot or put them in the tumble dryer! Kanekalon (the material used to make dreads) is heat sealable, and they'll end up melting. Hang them up to dry when you’ve finished. If you've ever bought Pink Pirate dreads and they've become a bit ratty with lots of wear you can either send them back and we’ll reseal them free of charge, or you can reseal them yourself. Email for help with this! I still have my first set of dreads by taking good care of them.