The proper method to retwist dreads:
If you want to make dreads, comb the hair well first, separate the hair you want to make dreads from the rest of the hair, and pin them so that the hair does not get tangled. If you want to retwist dreads of all your hair, start with the top of the hair on your neck. If pins are not for managing your hair, then you can also use different clips for this purpose. After setting your hair, pick some hair for making your first dread. You can put some gel on your fingers to make clear retwisted dreads, start twisting your hair and grip them in your finger firmly.
Then step by step take some hair and add them to the twisted hair. Make other retwisted dreads one by one and pin them separately. When you add the hair to twisted dread, pull the hair tightly so that your dread is well-made and doesn’t unravel. You can make any design on your head, but for this purpose, you should pick hair carefully according to the required design. Maintain a specific distance between dreads as it is very important and is responsible for giving your hairstyle a proper look. Your palm may also play a key role in locking your hair in the dreads and making your hairstyle more beautiful and unique. Hope it has cleared the confusion from your mind, how to retwist dreads.
Is it possible to retwist dreads without using clips?
Some people want to make retwisted dreads without using clips, but clips are necessary for setting and griping hair in their place. You can use small pins or rubbers instead of clips, or use gel to lock your hair. The length of your hair also matters a lot, as long hair is easily managed as compared to short hair. Read more about What are the reasons for hair loss in men?
Which gels can be used to retwist dreads?
There are some special gels manufactured for this purpose and are easily available in the market at different prices. Here we are going to discuss some of the most popular gels, which are as follows:
- Knotty Boy Lock Stead Tropical Tightening Gel
- Lockology lock gel
- Locs Imani Locking Spray
- Blocking gel with a resistant formula of mango and Jamaican lime
- Murray Gel Loc Lock
- Taliah Waajid Black Earth Products Shut It Down
- Carol’s Daughter Butter Loc
- Knatty Dread Dread Cream
- Fruit Of The Earth Aloe Vera 100% Gel
- Darcy’s Botanicals Organic Coconut Butter Styling Pomade
Which type of hair is effective for retwisting dreads wet or dry?
Some hair stylists say that wet hair is somehow more suitable to retwist as they are more elastic and malleable in comparison to dry hair. Dry hair may take more time the completion this purpose than wet hair. Dry hair is more exposed to damage as there can be more chances of hair breaking due to stretching. After gaining enough knowledge about how to retwist dreads, you should also focus on some other things necessary for this hairstyle.
How Often Should You Retwist Your Dreads?
How often you retwist depends on your hair type and how fast your hair grows. Use the table below as a guide. Retwisting too often can cause thinning and breakage at the roots. Retwisting too rarely lets new growth tangle and mat.
| Hair type | How often to retwist |
|---|---|
| Fine hair | Every 6 to 8 weeks |
| Medium hair | Every 4 to 6 weeks |
| Thick or coarse hair | Every 3 to 4 weeks |
| New locs (starter stage) | Every 2 to 4 weeks at first |
Two Methods to Retwist: Palm Rolling and Two-Strand Twist
Palm rolling is the most common method. Apply a small amount of gel to the new growth at the root. Roll the loc between your palms in one direction until it feels tight. Clip the loc in place and move to the next one. Two-strand twisting works well for starter locs. Split the new growth into two strands. Twist the strands around each other from the root to the end. This method holds well on curly hair. Whichever method you use, work in small sections. Start at the back of your head and move forward. Use only a small amount of product. Too much gel causes build-up, which is hard to wash out of locs. Dry your hair fully after retwisting. Damp locs can smell musty and take a long time to dry.
Aftercare: Keep Your Retwist Looking Good
Cover your hair with a satin or silk bonnet at night. Cotton pillowcases pull moisture from your hair and cause frizz. A bonnet keeps the retwist neat for longer. Wash your locs every one to two weeks with a residue-free shampoo. Rinse well so no shampoo stays in the locs. Moisturise your scalp with a light oil, such as jojoba oil or coconut oil. Do not over-oil, because oil can loosen a fresh retwist. Avoid heavy waxes and creams. They cause build-up inside the locs. If your scalp itches, do not scratch hard. Use a light oil or a scalp spray made for locs. See a loctician if you notice thinning, breakage, or pain at the roots.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Retwisting
Do not retwist too tightly. A tight retwist pulls the roots and can cause traction alopecia, which is hair loss from pulling. Your retwist should feel firm, not painful. Do not retwist every week. Give your roots time to rest between sessions. Do not use too much gel. A thin layer is enough. Do not retwist on dirty hair. Wash first so the gel can grip clean hair. Do not skip drying. Wet locs can develop a musty smell and take hours to dry. Do not combine locs that are too small. Small locs can break under their own weight as they grow. Ask a loctician for advice if you are unsure about your loc size or your retwist schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I retwist my dreads?
Most people retwist every 4 to 6 weeks. Fine hair needs retwisting every 6 to 8 weeks. Thick hair may need it every 3 to 4 weeks. Retwisting too often can cause thinning and breakage at the roots.
Is it better to retwist wet or dry hair?
Wet hair is more elastic and easier to twist, so many stylists prefer it. Dry hair takes more time and can break more easily. Wash your hair first, then retwist while it is damp. Dry your hair fully after retwisting.
Can I retwist dreads without clips?
Clips help set and grip the hair in place, but you can use small pins or rubber bands instead. Some people use their fingers and palm rolling only. Clips give the neatest result, especially for new locs.
What gel should I use to retwist dreads?
Use a light locking gel made for locs, such as Knotty Boy Lock Steady, Taliah Waajid Black Earth, or Carol’s Daughter Butter Loc. Use only a small amount. Too much gel causes build-up that is hard to wash out.
Why does my retwist hurt?
A retwist should feel firm, not painful. Pain means the retwist is too tight. A tight retwist can cause traction alopecia, which is hair loss from pulling. Tell your loctician to loosen the tension, or retwist more gently next time.
Disclaimer: This guide gives general information about retwisting dreads. Hair types differ, and a method that works for one person may not work for another. If you notice thinning, breakage, or pain, see a professional loctician.
Last Updated: 6 November 2026