Twisted dreadlocks (or “twist dreads”) are a popular way to start or maintain locs — and they come with their own style profile, pros, and maintenance needs.
Here’s a breakdown:
Table of Contents
What Are Twisted Dreadlocks?
- Definition: Twisted dreads are locs where two strands (or more) of hair are twisted together. This can be done with just your natural hair or with extensions.
- Starting Method: Many people begin their loc journey with two-strand twists because it gives structure as the roots begin to loc.
- Extensions: There are twisted dread extensions made via back-combing plus twisting, then sealed (often by heat) to create a dreadlock look.
- Aesthetic: Twisted locs often have a more rope-like or corded texture. As they mature, they can soften, but the twist gives a defined, sculpted appearance.
Advantages of Twisting Dreads
- Control and Neatness
- Because you’re twisting the strands, it’s easier to keep parts defined, especially in the early stages of locking.
- The style gives clarity to sections, which some people prefer versus the more organic look of freeform locs.
- Longer Retwist Interval
- With some twist-dread maintenance methods, you can extend how long your style looks neat compared to looser methods. For example, some salons combine two-strand twisting with gel to make the maintenance last longer.
- Retwisting every 3–6 weeks is pretty typical, depending on hair growth, texture, and how tight you like the twist.
- Reduced Frizz When Mature
- As twisted locs develop, the twist structure can help minimize loose frizz and make the locs look more uniform.
4 Strand Dread Twist
READ ALSO: Achieving a Bold Look with Big Twists Today in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide
If you already have a set number of locs that you would like to make look chunkier, one way to do that is to do four strand twists on your dreads.
READ ALSO: How to Retouch Dreadlocks: 2 Reliable Ways
This is quite a bit simpler than doing them on natural hair.
Take a look at how to in the video below.
READ ALSO: Beautiful Ladies Dreadlocks Styles 2025 & More
READ ALSO: Exploring the World of Dreadlock Twist Styles in 2025
Dreads Twist/Dread Twisting: How to Twist Dreadlocks Yourself
If DIY is your preference, then let’s get to the nitty-gritty: What is/was your personal dreadlock maintenance routine?
How and when did/do you wash and retwist your dreadlocks?
Do you have any particular way in which you do this?
What products have yielded the best results for you?
READ ALSO: 2 Interesting Crochet Twist Hair Styles
Personally, I like to wash and retwist my dreadlocks once a week. (Update: This was true for my previous loc journeys, but now I only wash my locs when my hair or scalp feels dirty, or if my hair has to be extremely neat for some reason.)
I do this because I like the manicured look.
I am not picky about what shampoo I use, but I do skip conditioner to avoid difficult-to-remove residue.
How about once your locs are fully locked?
Did you have to change your maintenance routine then?
If so, what did you do differently at this stage of your dreadlock journey?
Do you have any tips to share about how to retouch dreadlocks yourself once they are locked and longer?
That’s all I have for you today.
READ ALSO: Retouching Dreadlocks: 2 Reliable Ways
Dreads from Twists/Twist for Dreads
If you are interested in starting dreads with twists, then click here.
Photo Credits: TheDreadfulWoman, LocExtensions