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How To Clean Gunk Out Of Dreadlocks?

Let's face it; dreadlocks can get pretty gunky. Whether it's product buildup, sweat, or general grime, keeping your locs clean and fresh can be challenging. But don't worry; we're here to help! In this blog post, we'll share tips on cleaning the gunk out of your dreadlocks.

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What Causes Dreadlock Gunk in the First Place 

For anyone who has ever had dreadlocks, gunk is an all-too-familiar problem. But what exactly is this substance that seems to accumulate in our locs no matter how often we wash them?

Dreadlock gunk is caused by a combination of sweat, sebum, and product buildup. When these three things mix, they can create a sticky, gooey mess that's difficult to eliminate. And because dreadlocks are notoriously tricky to clean, the gunk can quickly build up, leading to a head full of locs that smell anything but fresh.

How to Avoid Gunk in Dreadlocks

woman touching her dreadlocks

So how can you prevent dreadlock gunk from happening in the first place? The key is to keep your locs clean and well-maintained. This means washing them regularly with a clarifying shampoo and following up with a deep conditioning treatment. You should also avoid using products with heavy oils or waxes, as these can further contribute to buildup. If you use products, rinse them out thoroughly so they don't have a chance to accumulate in your locs. Finally, dry your locs entirely after washing them; damp hair is the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew.

Want to learn more about dreadlocks? From the best products to maintenance tips check out our blog.

Tips for Keeping Your Dreadlocks Clean and Free of Gunk

The first step is to wet your hair with warm water. This will help loosen up the gunk and make it easier to remove. Next, apply a clarifying shampoo to your scalp and massage it in. Be sure to focus on any particularly gunky areas. Once you've shampooed your hair, rinse it thoroughly with warm water.

If the gunk is still there after shampooing, you may need to use a dreadlock cleaning brush. Start by wetting the brush with warm water and gently scrubbing your scalp and locs. You can use a regular toothbrush if you don't have a dreadlock cleaning brush. Just be sure to be gentle so you don't damage your dreadlocks.

Once you've removed the gunk from your dreadlocks, it's important to moisturize your hair. This will help prevent your dreadlocks from drying out and becoming brittle. You can use various products for this step, such as dreadlock oil or beeswax. Just apply a small amount to your locs and massage it in.

How to Clean Dreadlock Gunk Using Natural Ingredients

Many people with dreadlocks deal with this issue regularly. The good news is that a few simple and natural ingredients can be used to clean the gunk out of your locs. 

Apple Cider Vinegar

One of the most effective natural ingredients for cleaning dreadlock gunk is apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is a powerful disinfectant that can help break down the buildup of oils, dirt, and product residue in your locs. To use apple cider vinegar to clean your locs, add 1/4 cup of vinegar to a spray bottle filled with water. Spray the mixture onto your locs and massage it into your scalp. Rinse your hair with warm water and shampoo as usual. Repeat this process once per week for best results.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is another excellent natural ingredient for cleaning dreadlock gunk. Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that can help to scrub away buildup from your scalp and hair shaft. To use baking soda to clean your locs, simply mix 1/4 cup of baking soda with enough water to form a paste. Massage the paste into your scalp and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Rinse your hair with warm water and shampoo as usual. Repeat this process once per week for best results.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is another great natural ingredient for cleaning dreadlock gunk. Lemon juice is a natural astringent and can help to break down oils and product buildup in your hair. To use lemon juice to clean your locs, simply mix 1/4 cup of lemon juice with enough water to form a paste. Massage the paste into your scalp and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Rinse your hair with warm water and shampoo as usual. Repeat this process once per week for best results. 

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Benefits of Clean Dreadlocks

a man with dreads sitting down next to a fence

In order to keep your locs looking their best, it is important to clean them on a regular basis. Some people may think that cleaning their dreadlocks too often will cause them to become dry and brittle, but this is not the case. In fact, there are many benefits to keeping your locs clean, including the following:

  • Prevents buildup 
  • Reduces odor 
  • Stimulates hair growth 
  • Prevents mats and tangles 
  • Improves appearance 
  • Boosts self-confidence 
  • Makes locs last longer 
  • Prevents scalp problems

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Having Clean Dreadlocks

Dreadlock gunk is a common problem that's all too familiar for anyone with locs. If you have dreadlocks, it's important to clean the gunk out of them on a regular basis. Otherwise, you may end up with buildup that can lead to scalp irritation or other problems. Cleaning gunk out of your dreadlocks doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can easily keep your locs clean and fresh all year round!

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