Swimming with Dreadlocks - dreads and water
whenever summer approaches, there are some common questions about dreadlocks that come up, especially for new dreaded people. the most common one is about swimming with dreadlocks. here is what you should know about this issue.
you can watch the video about swimming with dreads here
1-To swim with dreadlocks is completely fine, especially in the ocean because salt water helps your dreads to mature and to tighten up. most dreadlock experts suggest swimming in the ocean for a better and faster dreading process. Thus, it is a good idea to let the salt water dry in your dreadlocks before washing them. Or you can make your own homemade salt water spray if you won't want to swim in the ocean.
2-if your dreads are less then 1 month old, it's better that you avoid swimming too often, if you can't resist the swimming temptation, you may use a swimming cap, or if you don't have one, at least use rubber bands at the root and the tip of each dread.
3-It is ok to also swim in pools. the Chlorine doesn't hurt your dreads as long as you rinse them well right after you get out of water then wash them as soon as possible.
Notice that in some hotel pools some ppl may jump in with sun tan oils on, that makes the water oily, it's better if you avoid swimming or use a swim cap.
4-if you're swimming with dreadlocks in their first few months, you may notice some loose hair afterwards, it's ok, it does not mean that your dreads are falling apart, just deal with it with a loose hair tool or a crochet hook
5-Make sure to dry your dreads after showering, do not sleep with them wet or put them in a hat, if you had no choice but sleeping with wet dreads, spread them along to allow them air drying.
6-it is better to not swim in lakes and rivers without a swimming cap, no matter how clean they look, or if you have to then make sure to rinse your dreads very well afterwards.
Bottom of line: swim, have fun, but wash your dreads, rinse and dry them :)
Peace and Love
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