How to Wash Dreadlocks With Apple Cider Vinegar

Are you tired of using harsh chemicals on your dreadlocks? Want to switch to a more natural and gentle alternative? Look no further than apple cider vinegar!

Maintaining the cleanliness and health of dreadlocks can be a unique challenge, but one natural solution that has gained popularity is using apple cider vinegar. This potent liquid is known for its ability to cleanse deeply, remove buildup, and balance the scalp’s pH levels.

In addition to its clarifying properties, apple cider vinegar can also add shine and softness to dreadlocks, making it a valuable addition to your hair care routine.

Whether you are new to having dreadlocks or looking for a more natural way to keep them clean and healthy, this guide will walk you through the process of how to wash dreadlocks with apple cider vinegar.

What Will You Need?

Before diving into the process, gathering all the necessary tools and materials is important. Here are the things you will need:

• Apple cider vinegar (organic, raw, and unfiltered preferably)
• Water
• Spray bottle or small container with a spout
• Essential oils (optional)
• Towel
• Dreadlock-friendly shampoo (for occasional deep cleansing)

Once you have everything ready, you can proceed with the steps below.

10 Easy Steps on How to Wash Dreadlocks With Apple Cider Vinegar

Step 1: Dilute the Apple Cider Vinegar

To start, you’ll need to dilute the apple cider vinegar to ensure it’s gentle enough for your scalp and hair. Mix one part apple cider vinegar with three parts water.

This dilution helps avoid irritation or overpowering smell while still providing the cleaning benefits. You can adjust the ratio based on your scalp’s sensitivity or the level of build-up in your dreadlocks.

If you choose to, add a few drops of essential oil to the mixture to counteract the vinegar smell and add additional benefits; popular choices include tea tree oil for its antifungal properties or lavender oil for its soothing effects.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dreadlocks

Before applying the mixture, make sure your dreadlocks are dry. Section your hair to ensure the apple cider vinegar solution is evenly distributed throughout. This is particularly important if you have thicker or longer dreadlocks, as it allows the mixture to penetrate each lock effectively.

Step 3: Apply the Solution

Apply the diluted apple cider vinegar directly to your scalp and dreadlocks using a spray bottle or container with a spout. Focus on the roots and work your way down to the tips.

Ensure that every part of your scalp and each dreadlock is thoroughly saturated. The spout or spray bottle allows for controlled and precise application, ensuring the solution does not get into your eyes.

Step 4: Massage Your Scalp and Dreadlocks

Once the apple cider vinegar solution has been applied, gently massage your scalp and dreadlocks. Using the tips of your fingers, work the solution into your scalp in circular motions. This helps to loosen any dirt, oil, or buildup that might be clinging to your scalp and hair.

For the dreadlocks, gently squeeze and knead each lock to ensure the solution penetrates thoroughly, helping to break down any residue trapped within. This massaging process not only aids in effective cleansing but also stimulates blood circulation in the scalp, promoting healthier hair growth and a more nourished scalp.

Step 5: Let the Solution Sit

After you have massaged your scalp and dreadlocks, let the apple cider vinegar solution sit for about 15-20 minutes. Allowing the solution to sit ensures it has enough time to break down buildup and balance the pH levels of your scalp.

During this time, you can cover your head with a shower cap to prevent the solution from dripping and to maintain warmth, which can enhance the effectiveness of the treatment. If you feel discomfort or irritation during this period, rinse the solution immediately as your scalp may be sensitive to the vinegar.

Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly

Once the soaking time has passed, it’s time to rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. Make sure to rinse out all the apple cider vinegar solution from your scalp and dreadlocks.

Lingering vinegar can leave your hair feeling sticky and may have an unpleasant smell. Use your fingers to gently press and squeeze your dreadlocks, ensuring the solution is completely rinsed out.

Step 7: Shampoo Your Dreadlocks

For an extra deep cleanse, you may opt to shampoo your dreadlocks after rinsing out the apple cider vinegar solution. Use a dreadlock-friendly, residue-free shampoo designed to keep dreadlocks clean without leaving buildup.

This step is beneficial if you haven’t washed your hair in a while or feel your dreadlocks need an additional cleanse to remove any remaining residue.

Step 8: Dry Your Dreadlocks

Proper drying is crucial to maintaining healthy dreadlocks. After rinsing, use a towel to squeeze out excess water from your scalp and dreadlocks gently. Avoid vigorous rubbing as this can cause frizz and potential breakage. Once you have towel-dried your dreadlocks, allow them to air dry completely.

You can expedite the drying process by sitting in a warm, sunny area or using a hairdryer in a low heat setting, but be cautious not to apply too much heat as this can damage your hair.

Step 9: Moisturize

After washing, your dreadlocks might feel a bit dry. To restore moisture, apply a light oil or a leave-in conditioner designed explicitly for dreadlocks. Coconut oil, jojoba oil, or argan oil are excellent choices.

Gently apply the oil from the scalp to the tips of your dreadlocks, ensuring each lock is moisturized. This step helps maintain the softness and elasticity of your dreadlocks while also adding shine.

Step 10: Regular Maintenance

To keep your dreadlocks looking their best, incorporate regular maintenance into your routine. Use the apple cider vinegar rinse once a month or as needed to maintain clean and healthy dreadlocks.

Between washes, wear a headscarf or hat to protect your dreadlocks from dirt and debris, and regularly check for any signs of buildup or residue. Your dreadlocks will remain healthy, strong, and beautiful with consistent care and attention.

By following these simple steps, you can effectively use apple cider vinegar to cleanse your dreadlocks and maintain their health without using harsh chemicals or damaging your hair.

5 Additional Tips and Tricks

1. Dilute the Vinegar: Always dilute apple cider vinegar with water before using it on your dreadlocks. A common ratio is one part vinegar to three parts water. This helps prevent scalp irritation and dryness.
2. Use a Spray Bottle: Mixing the apple cider vinegar solution in a spray bottle allows for easy application and ensures even distribution throughout your dreadlocks.
3. Follow-Up with Moisturizer: Post-wash, apply a light oil or leave-in conditioner to your dreadlocks to lock in moisture and maintain softness. Apple cider vinegar can sometimes leave hair feeling dry.
4. Check Your Ingredients: Before purchasing any hair products, be sure to check the ingredients list. Avoid products with sulfates, parabens, and other harsh chemicals that can cause build-up and damage to your dreadlocks.
5. Patience is Key: Building and maintaining healthy dreadlocks takes time and patience. Be gentle with your hair and give it time to adapt to a new routine and products. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see immediate results—consistency is key to achieving healthy, strong dreadlocks.

With these additional tips, you can ensure that your journey towards healthy dreadlocks is smooth and successful.

5 Things You Should Avoid

1. Undiluted Apple Cider Vinegar: Avoid using apple cider vinegar straight from the bottle without diluting it first. The high acidity can be too harsh for your scalp and hair, leading to irritation and dryness.
2. Frequent Use: Overusing apple cider vinegar can strip your dreadlocks of their natural oils. Limit the use to once or twice a month to maintain the health of your hair and scalp.
3. Hot Water: Avoid using hot water when rinsing your hair after an apple cider vinegar wash. Hot water can open up the hair cuticles too much, causing frizz and potential damage. Use cool or lukewarm water instead.
4. Immediate Sun Exposure: Try to avoid exposing your hair to direct sunlight immediately after washing it with apple cider vinegar. The vinegar can make your scalp more sensitive to UV rays, potentially leading to sunburn.
5. Skipping a Rinse: Never skip the final rinse with water after applying the apple cider vinegar solution. Leaving vinegar residue in your hair can lead to a strong smell and unwanted build-up. Always ensure your hair is thoroughly rinsed.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your dreadlocks stay healthy and strong.

Conclusion

How to wash dreadlocks with apple cider vinegar can be an effective and natural way to maintain their cleanliness and health.

By diluting the vinegar, using the solution sparingly, and following up with proper moisturizing techniques, you can achieve optimal results without compromising the health of your hair.

Educating yourself on the right practices, such as avoiding hot water rinses and immediate sun exposure, is essential to prevent any adverse effects. Consistency, patience, and careful attention to detail will ensure that your dreadlocks remain strong, vibrant, and full of life.

With these guidelines in mind, you’ll be able to incorporate apple cider vinegar effectively into your hair care routine and reap its numerous benefits.