An easy way to get started with semi-freeform dreads is through the towel rub method. This method is suited for athlete or individuals who are highly active and sweat a lot.
The towel rub method allows you to wash your dreadlocks every day without any dandruff or itchiness.
Towel Rub Dreads – Step 1
Using a residue-free shampoo, wash your hair. Let your hair air dry. While it is still slightly damp, rub your hair gently with the towel in a clockwise motion.
Towel Rub Dreads – Step 2
Focus on a small section of hair (around one inch) and starting at the roots. Rub for a few minutes. Use gentle pressure, it should feel like a massage. If the rubbing motion hurts your scalp, it’s too harsh.
At this point, you’ll notice a small dread ball starts to form.
Towel Rub Dreads – Step 3
Continue rubbing after adding a small portion of dread wax to the ball of hair. Repeat the process on another section of hair and all over your scalp until all your hair is rolled into small dread balls with the help of the wax.
Towel Rub Dreads – Step 4
The baby dreads should hold well on their own. If they are starting to come undone, hold them in place with elastic bands. Continue rubbing the loose hair into dread balls in a circular, clockwise motion.
The towel rub method is simple and cost effective but it joins the hair together at a much slower rate than pure neglect. The good news is that it supports washing hair daily and there is no product buildup or residue.