The formation of loops in dreadlocks is completely normal.
While some folks like the unique look that loops give to their dreadlocks, it can drive others insane.
Why Do Loops Form In Dreads?
They are formed when a part of your dreadlocks tighten up more than the one right next to it. Some parts of the hair are easy to braid and some sections are tough to lock. This causes loops in sections where the hair cannot dread.
Avoid Cutting And Burning Dreadlock Loops
Cutting loops is not a good idea. It’s effectively the same as cutting the tips. As the hair is no longer help together, it starts to move and tends to fall out of the dread, causing the dread to fall apart.
Trying to burn the loops can either burn the hair into the dread and stay stuck or causes the burnt hair to move out of the braid. Both ways, the dread is most likely to unravel.
Caution: Burning hair that has been styled with flammable wax is a safety hazard. You are likely to burn more than you intend and leave your dreads with a burnt smell that will last for months.
How To Fix Loops
Although most loops eventually even out over a period of time, you can try these following techniques to fix them:
- Fixing loops at the roots is simple. The best way to prevent a loop is to crochet the dread through the loop then clockwise rub the dread.
- To fix loops in the middle of the dread, crochet the dread through the loop and palm roll. With regular palm rolling, your loops lock back into your dreads.
To prevent clumps or loops in your locs, use brush rubbing methods or backcombing. Use smaller strokes when you backcomb (about an inch of hair at time) and brush rub by twisting the dreads as much as possible.