How to Retouch Dreadlocks: 2 Reliable Ways

How to Retouch Dreadlocks Without Wax

The tool you need to “automatically” retwist your dreadlocks is either a crochet needle, so you can crochet your new growth in and out of your locs so your new growth forms an almost instant mature part of your loc, or an interlocking tool, which allows you to interlock your regrowth (i.e., to form small knots with your loc itself).

Using either method, your incorporated new growth becomes firmly part of the rest of your loc and will not detangle.

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How to Retwist Dreads (Loctician Near Me/Dreadlocks Near Me)

Retouching dreadlocks is essential for maintaining their neatness, structure, and overall health.

Depending on the method used to form the locs, the retouching process can involve different techniques such as palm rolling, interlocking, or crocheting.

Retouching not only keeps the locs looking fresh but also helps prevent breakage and unraveling, especially at the roots.

When to Retouch Dreadlocks

The frequency of retouching depends on factors such as hair type, growth rate, and personal preference. Generally, new growth appears within four to six weeks, at which point some people choose to maintain their locs.

However, frequent manipulation can weaken the roots, so it’s important to strike a balance between maintenance and allowing the hair to settle naturally.

For those with starter locs, retouching is typically done more often to ensure the locs mature properly. Mature locs, on the other hand, may not need as much frequent retouching unless they start looking unkempt or frizzy.

Methods of Retouching Dreadlocks

There are several ways to retouch dreadlocks depending on the locking method and hair texture. Here are the most common techniques:

How to Retouch Dreadlocks Method #1: Palm Rolling

Palm rolling is one of the most common methods for maintaining dreadlocks.

It involves rolling each loc between the palms to help maintain its shape and encourage locking.

This method works best for traditional locs that were started with twisting.

How to palm roll:

Start with clean, slightly damp hair.
Apply a small amount of locking gel, wax, or oil to your fingertips.
Take each loc between your palms and roll it back and forth in one direction.
Continue the process for each loc, ensuring you maintain even tension.
Allow the hair to air dry or sit under a hooded dryer to set the locs in place.

Palm rolling is effective for keeping locs uniform and reducing frizz, but it requires consistency over time.

2. Interlocking

Interlocking is a method in which a tool or fingers are used to weave the new growth into the loc itself.

This technique is often preferred by people with fine or loosely textured hair because it creates a secure hold that prevents unraveling.

How to interlock:

Use a small latch hook or interlocking tool.
Insert the tool through the base of the loc and pull the new growth through in a pattern (such as four-point or two-point rotations).
Repeat the process until the root feels secure, ensuring you don’t pull too tightly to avoid tension at the scalp.

Interlocking lasts longer than palm rolling and is ideal for people who prefer a low-maintenance method that can go months without retouching.

Photo credits: Epic Beauty Bars

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