1. Separate your dreadlocks. Loose hair can find itself getting trapped inside the neighbouring dreadlocks, so separating everyday to help prevent this is recommended. At least do it after every wash.
2. Wash your hair once a week or fortnight. I was my hair far less often that I ever did prior to having dreadlocks, and I’m so pleased about this every morning when I get to have extra time in bed! Joking aside, clean roots do dread better, so wash your hair.
3. Use shampoo for dreadlocks, and no conditioner. I like using the ginger shampoo on this link: https://www.elementallocks.co.uk/product/elemental-ginger-dreadlock-shampoo

If you use ordinary hair products, you will end up with residue building up inside your dreadlocks which will eventually spoil their appearance and can cause a smell. 

4. If you miss conditioner and want to soften your dreadlocks, you can rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar in the shower and then rinse with water. After washing, I like to apply aloe vera straight from the plant. 

5. Palm roll your hair when it is damp. It is more effective than doing it while hair is soaking wet or dry.

6. In between washes, I like to freshen up with a root spray. I make these myself using water in a spray bottle and a few drops of essential oils. I prefer to make up sprays as I go so I can just use water out the tap, but if you want to make a spray to last, use distilled water. You can also add a pinch of sea salt to create a tightening spray. At the moment I am enjoying the scent of rosemary and it is good for growth. Here are some other oils you can try, but please do not experiment with these if you are pregnant or around pregnant people as they can be harmful.

Lavender – Speed up hair growth

Peppermint – good for itchy scalp 

Tea tree oil – repels nits and lice!

Lemongrass – antifungal and antibacterial

Eucalyptus oil – kills lice