Dreadlocks have long been celebrated for their cultural significance and stunning aesthetic. In recent years, though, we’ve seen more people getting creative with how they wear their locs, and one exciting twist gaining popularity is pairing bangs and dreads.
It’s a bold, fresh approach that not only adds dimension but also gives your style a personal touch.
Whether you’re rocking short or long dreads, bangs can transform your look in unexpected ways.
Table of Contents
Why Consider Bangs with Dreads?
The combination of bangs and dreads might seem unconventional, but that’s precisely what makes it stand out.
Bangs soften the face, adding a playful, edgy vibe that contrasts beautifully with the often structured or intricate appearance of dreadlocks.
The versatility of bangs and dreads means that anyone, whether they have thick or fine locs, can find a style that suits their personality.
For instance, someone with thicker locs might opt for full, voluminous bangs that frame the face, while finer locs pair well with more delicate, wispy bangs. A fringe can also help balance out the heaviness of long dreadlocks, making the style look more dynamic and less weighed down. You can easily experiment with blunt, side-swept, or even curtain bangs depending on what works best for your face shape.
Maintaining the Look
While bangs and dreads make a striking combo, maintaining them does require some effort.
Dreads, by nature, need consistent care to stay healthy, and the same goes for bangs. Moisture is key here, as dreads can be prone to dryness, especially around the front where the hair is often exposed to more environmental factors like sun and wind.
To keep both your bangs and locs hydrated, you’ll want to invest in a good leave-in conditioner. A lightweight option like the Maui Moisture Thirsty Curls mist works well to refresh your dreads while also keeping your bangs soft and manageable. Regular misting can also help prevent frizz, which is especially important for bangs, as they can quickly lose their shape if not properly maintained.
Another consideration is how often you wash your hair. While dreads don’t need to be washed as frequently as other styles, bangs can get greasy or oily faster since they rest on your forehead. This means balancing washing your bangs without disturbing your locs.
Using a dry shampoo, like Not Your Mother’s Clean Freak Refreshing Dry Shampoo, can be a lifesaver for absorbing oil in the bangs without soaking the rest of your locs.
Styling Options
One of the most exciting aspects of combining bangs with dreads is the range of styling options available.
You can opt for long dreads paired with blunt bangs for a striking, high-fashion look or keep things casual with shoulder-length locs and soft, face-framing fringe.
You could even go for a more bohemian vibe by incorporating beads or wraps into your locs, enhancing the artistic feel of the style.
If you’re looking to add definition to your bangs while keeping them smooth, a small amount of Cantu Shea Butter Edge Stay Gel can help keep flyaways in check without making the hair feel stiff. It’s also a good idea to gently twist or braid your bangs at night to help maintain their shape and prevent frizz.
For those who love experimenting, you can try different partings to switch things up.
A center-parted bang with dreads pulled back into a bun offers a chic, modern twist, while side-swept bangs paired with half-up, half-down styles create a more laid-back, everyday vibe.
Keeping Locs Healthy
While bangs can be a great way to enhance your look, it’s important not to forget about the health of your locs overall. Regular scalp care is crucial, as dreads can sometimes cause tension on the scalp, especially around the hairline where bangs sit.