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One of the most recognizable hairstyles of all time is dreadlocks, but caring for them may be difficult. You need the best dreadlock shampoo since they need ongoing maintenance and release from excess oils. Dreadlocks may be fashionable and eye-catching, but maintaining this hairstyle requires the right shampoo or shampoo bar, that is specially developed for dreadlocks. Dreadlock shampoos clean any build-up residue on your hair more thoroughly than ordinary shampoos. Certain shampoos even support maintaining the style by tightening the dreadlocks.

Incredible Leave-In Conditioner for Locs

You will need sulfate-free, residue-free products such as a natural shampoo bar, if you decide to wear this haircut so that your scalp doesn't become greasy or oily. To assist and relieve dandruff and irritation, it will also be a good idea to use shampoos enriched with coconut oil, shea butter, sweet almond oil, rosemary essential oils, jojoba oil, moringa seed oil, argan oil, peppermint essential oils, tea tree oil, and other botanical elements.

Jojoba oil may deeply infiltrate the scalp and nurture it from within as opposed to regular shampoo, making it a highly effective natural cure for dreadlocks. This not only keeps your dreadlocks healthy, but it also gives them a brilliant sheen that will enhance their beauty. Find out more about the top dreadlock shampoos on the market by scrolling down.


1. Best Gentle Formula Dreadlock Shampoo

Jamaican Mango & Lime Tingle Shampoo

$10 on Amazon

Jamaican Mango & Lime Tingle Dreadlock Shampoo eliminates buildup, shampoos your hair, and massages your scalp. Jamaican Mango and Lime: Antibacterial and antioxidant components in this mild formulation aid with itching relief. Mango and lime extracts give it a fresh scent, which leaves your hair smelling great. This clarifying shampoo is safe for your hair because it is manufactured with natural components. Old Jamaican recipes serve as the basis for the Jamaican Mango and Lime Tingle Shampoo, which gives your hair follicles a well-groomed and healthy appearance.

Pros

  • Nourishes the natural hair
  • Best shampoo to gently cleanse
  • Relieves itching sensitive scalp
  • Removes build-up
  • Natural ingredients
  • Fresh fragrance

Cons

  • Does not lather well
  • Creates a tingling sensation

2. Best Dreadlock Shampoo For Colored Hair

Dollylocks Nag Champa Liquid Shampoo

$28 on Amazon

The botanical extracts such as tea tree used to create Dollylocks Nag Champa Liquid Shampoo are pure and organic which boosts hair growth. This nourishing shampoo thoroughly cleans your hair and scalp without leaving any residue behind. This shampoo contains coconut oil, which gently nourishes your hair without removing oils. Shampoos with a mild formula work well on colored hair. It prevents fading of the hair color. This clarifying shampoo is efficient and leaves your scalp feeling revitalized and renewed. Amazon reviews concur this is one of the best shampoos for dreadlocks. Your dreads will be bright, healthy, and scented with nag champa thanks to its lightweight recipe.

Pros

  • High-quality natural ingredients
  • Phthalate-free for sensitive scalps
  • Lightweight
  • Residue-free for all hair textures
  • Available in different sizes
  • Pleasant fragrance

Cons

  • Slightly greasy

3. Best For All Hair Types Dreadlock Shmpoo

Knatty Dread Loc Shampoo

$19 on Amazon

All hair types and textures are suited for Knatty Dread Loc Shampoo. It promotes new growth and tightens the dreads. It has coconut extracts in it that treat and hydrate your hair. This shampoo does not leave any residue behind and cuts down on drying time after washing. It is used before styling the dreads and has no scent. Your dreadlocks will look clean and healthy after being washed with Knatty Dread Loc Shampoo. If you have natural or artificial dreadlocks, this is an excellent clarifying shampoo to incorporate into your hair care regimen.

Pros

  • Tightens dreadlocks
  • Residue-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Suitable for dreadlocks of all hair types
  • Short drying time
  • Moisturizes the hair textures

Cons

  • Does not reduce frizz

4. Best Spray Dreadlock Shampoo

Stylin Dredz Spray Shampoo

$10 on Amazon

Tea tree oil, which is present in Stylin' Dredz Lock Friendly Spray Shampoo, gently cleanses your hair without leaving behind any buildup or residue; similar to a natural shampoo bar. It has foamy ingredients that are specifically developed to aid with dreadlock maintenance. They produce a substantial amount of soap that cleans your hair without tangling your dreadlocks. Your dreads will look smooth and lustrous once it clarifies and gets rid of any buildup and soothes itchy scalp. Moreover, it conditions and hydrates your scalp. Dreadlock enthusiasts agree this is one of the best shampoos for dreadlocks. This clarifying shampoo used regularly, aids in reducing itching and getting rid of dandruff. It is simple to use and incredibly effective.

Pros

  • Residue-free
  • Detangles dreads
  • Soothes the sensitive scalp
  • Lathers well
  • Relieves itching
  • Eliminates dandruff

Cons

  • May dry out your hair

5. Best For Hair Breakage Dreadlock Shampoo

Dread Head HQ Earth Locks Organic Dread Shampoo

$80 on Amazon

Your dreadlocks will feel hydrated after using Earth Locks Organic Dread Shampoo, which will also make them look and feel healthy. The components of this shampoo do not cause your hair to become dry or brittle. It guards against hair breaking very easily. It suds effectively and doesn't make your dreads feel like oily hair or sticky hair. Moreover, it has no scent. Regular application reduces hair breakage and restores matted hair. This shampoo's packaging is constructed from recycled materials yet does contain some harsh chemicals.

Pros

  • Nourishes the hair
  • Protects the hair
  • Non-greasy
  • Fragrance-free
  • Eco-friendly packaging

Cons

  • Contains toxic ingredients

These are the dreadlocks shampoos we think are best.

Dreadlock extensions? Check out our best bangin shampoos for hair extensions!


Knotty Boy Dreadlock Shampoo

Knotty Boy Dreadlock Shampoo is an added item we think deserves referral, although it's currently out of stock during this time of publishing. Knotty Boy Dreadlock Shampoo is the world’s first all-natural shampoo made just for dreadlocks. This minty fresh and invigorating shampoo keeps your dreads clean and smelling great. It contains moisturizing saponified oils such as olive oil, castor oil, and hemp seed oil.


Let's now examine a few considerations to make before selecting the best shampoo for your dreads.

Keep The Right Shampoo In Mind

Residue-Free: Seek out goods that leave no trace of their use. They take out the extra buildup and keep your dreadlocks light. Beeswax is a hydrating ingredient, but it also leaves a lot of residue, therefore it is best to avoid it.

Non-Greasy: Shampoos containing potent oils will make your dreads greasy and filthy. Greasy products promote build-up, scratch your scalp, and make you more likely to get dandruff.

Sulfate-Free: Avoid sulfates in shampoos, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), as these might damage your hair. They stick to the hair cuticles, damaging the hair by drying and brittlening them. Sulfates can also result in split ends and make your dreads appear lifeless and dreary.

The Right Oils: You should stay away from any additives that deplete your hair's natural oils and cause your strands to become dry. Selecting shampoos with essential oils and hydrating oils that nurture your hair is encouraged.

Seek for shampoos free of harsh ingredients and that offer hydration. Another wonderful choice is deep-cleansing shampoos that eliminate product buildup.

Dreadlocks hair strands can be effectively cleaned and maintained with conventional shampoos. Natural oils and specially made dreadlocks shampoos without sulfates or residue aid in maintaining the cleanliness and health of your dreads. In the comments area below, let us know which of the shampoos for dreadlocks on the above list is your favorite!

FAQs

How often should I wash my dreads?

To get rid of creams, oil, or debris that has become lodged in the dreads' strands and scalp, wash them every two to three weeks.

Why do dreadlocks smell bad?

If your hair is still damp after washing, mold might develop in your dreadlocks. Moreover, the smell of air pollution, food aromas, and cigarette smoke can remain in your dreads.

Can you wet your dreads every day?

It is not advised to wash or frequently damp your dreads. Fungus can grow as a result of ongoing wetness.

Can I use any shampoo on my dreads?

No, avoid using ordinary shampoo to wash your dreadlocks. Typical shampoos contain conditioners, thickeners, softeners, perfumes, and other synthetic ingredients that lubricate the hair to prevent matting and release knots. To clean, bind, and strengthen your dreadlocks, use shampoos designed for dreadlocks.

How long can you go without washing dreads?

Every two to three weeks, wash your dreads. If your lifestyle keeps your dreads tidy, you can wash them less frequently if you'd like. Don't delay washing for more than three months, though.

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