Embracing the beauty of dreadlocks comes with its unique set of challenges, and we understand the importance of proper care. A crucial aspect of maintaining those stunning dreadlocks is choosing the right shampoo. In this blog post, we dive into the realm of the best shampoos for dreads, revealing the secrets to keeping them looking fresh and vibrant.

Dreadlocks are not just a hairstyle; they're a statement. To preserve their beauty, they demand special attention and care. Join us on a journey as we explore the top shampoos tailored for dreadlocks and unveil the tips and tricks to ensure your locks remain not just a style but a masterpiece.

Navigating the world of dreadlock care can be intricate, and selecting the right shampoo is a game-changer. Learn about the best shampoos meticulously curated for dreadlocks in our latest blog post. Uncover the secrets that will have your dreadlocks looking fresh, healthy, and as unique as you are.

Don't let the challenges of dreadlock maintenance hold you back. Dive into our blog post now to discover the best shampoos for dreads and embark on a journey to healthier, more vibrant locks!

We have searched for the best so you don’t have to live with the rest. In order to serve you to the best of our ability and to keep our blog going, GarnesGuide may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy. Each product was independently researched by our editors and the reviews may have been edited for length and clarity.

How we Choose the Best Shampoos for Dreadlocks

You have dreadlocks and you are looking for the best dreadlock shampoo to take care of them.

If you're like most people, you don't have time to research the best shampoo for dreadlocks. You just want to buy one and be done with it.

We have reviewed hundreds of products to find you the best shampoo for dreadlocks. We have selected a number of options for you depending on your needs. Those with organic ingredients have been performing very well of late as people move away from harsh chemicals on their body.

Best High Protein Shampoo

Jamaican Mango and Lime Tingle Dreadlock Shampoo & Protein Conditioner

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Why GG Loves It

Looking for a dreadlock shampoo and conditioner that will leave your hair feeling refreshed and revived?

Look no further than Jamaican Mango and Lime Tingle Dreadlock Shampoo & Protein Conditioner.

This gentle cleanser is infused with menthol, which helps remove build-up from scalp and hair, and protect against dryness and flaking.

Plus, the unique blend of jamaican mango and lime extracts provides an invigorating, refreshing scent that will leave your hair smelling fresh and great all day long!

What you Ought to Know

Lime Tingle Dreadlock Shampoo Formulated to gently cleanse and nourish natural hair. This invigorating formula contains Tea Tree Oil extracts that stimulate the scalp, relieve itching and remove build-up.

Formulated without parabens. Enhanced with Manuka Honey and Moringa Seed Oil. Gently cleanses while binding and sealing in moisture on hair and scalp.

To use: Wet hair thoroughly using warm water. Then pour a small amount of mango and lime tingle shampoo into hand and distribute throughout the hair. Massage scalp, maximising the benefit of oil with nails. Rinse and repeat. Thoroughly rinse the dreadlock shampoo from the hair and towel blot. Follow with Jamaican Mango and Lime® Protein Conditioner.

Best Dreadlock Liquid Soap

Dread Head HQ Dread Dreadlock Soap

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Why GG Loves It

If you're looking for a soap that won't weigh down your hair or slow down the dreading process, DreadHead Dread Soap is for you!

This unique soap is free of SAPONIFIED OILS and other natural residues that can lubricate hair and make it harder to dread.

It also contains no moisturizing additives, so your hair won't take longer to dry. Plus, it's hypo-allergenic, so even people with sensitive scalps can use it without worry.

So why wait? Try DreadHead Dread Soap today!

What you Ought to Know

DreadHead Dread Soap is different than other shampoos for dreadlocks because it is designed to not leave oils, scents, conditioners, detanglers, moisturizers, inhibitors and other additives behind.

Most shampoos actually contain detergents that can strip your hair and lead to an itchy scalp of natural oils, leading to dryness, itchiness, and flakiness.

But DreadHead Dread Soap uses a special formula that cleanses your hair and scalp without stripping away the natural essential oils that keep your normal hair healthy and strong.

In fact, this soap actually helps to tighten dreads and get them started faster than other shampoos for dreadlocks! That's because it gets the hair so clean and free of oil thanks to residue free shampoos that the hair can bind together more easily.

So if you're looking for a dreadlock shampoo that will get your dreads started quickly and help keep them healthy and strong, then DreadHead Dread Soap is the perfect choice for you!

Best Clarifying Shampoo For Locs

Nothing But Clarifying Shampoo

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Why GG Loves It

Looking for a dreadlock shampoo that will gently deep clean your hair and scalp? Look no further than Nothing But Sulfate-Free Clarifying Shampoo!

This liquid shampoo is formulated with honest natural ingredients to remove deep-seated contaminants, excess oils, build-up, and residue from hair and hair follicles.

Plus, it's free of petrolatum, mineral oil, sulfates, parabens, colorants, and phthalates - making it ideal for natural hair care.

Give your hair the clean it deserves with Nothing But Clarifying Shampoo!

What you Ought to Know

We all want healthy, shiny hair that looks great, but sometimes it can be hard to achieve.

If you're looking for a product that will help you get the hair of your dreams.

This gentle cleanser is perfect for all hair types, including oily hair, curly hair, African American, bleached hair, and biracial hair.

It's also safe for use on color-treated hair. This Rejuvenating Hair Cleanser helps remove build-up from styling products, chlorine, and the environment that can weigh hair down.

It also helps get rid of dullness and stops bad hair days.

For best results, use this Rejuvenating Hair Cleanser at least once a month or before any hair masque or hair strengthening treatment that requires rinsing off.

Best Authentic African Soap

Alaffia Skin Care, Authentic African Black Soap

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Why GG Loves It

Looking for an authentic African black soap that is both gentle and effective? Look no further than Alaffia's skin care line.

This black soap is made with natural ingredients and can help detoxify, clarify, and cleanse your skin. It's also great for helping to combat acne and improve skin texture.

Shea butter provides essential moisture to your skin and hair, leaving them softer than ever before.

Try this hair and body wash today, the effect is maximized with shea butter!

What you Ought to Know

Anyone who has ever struggled with dandruff knows how frustrating it can be. Not only is it embarrassing, but it can also be difficult to get rid of.

Fortunately, African black soap shampoo can help. Authentic African black soap gently and effectively cleanses and purifies the hair and sensitive scalp, which can help promote healthy hair and minimize dandruff.

African black soap is also suitable for all skin types, so it won't irritate or dry out your skin, thanks to shea butter.

So if you're looking for a multipurpose soap that can help with dandruff, African black soap is a great option.

Best Tea Tree Oil Shampoo

Knotty Boy Dreadlock Shampoo

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Why GG Loves It

If you're looking for a knotty boy dreadlock shampoo that won't leave any residue behind, Knotty Boy dreadlock Shampoo is the perfect choice.

This unique formula contains rosemary, tea tree and peppermint oils to soothe your sensitive scalp, and it's excellent for all-over body use.

Plus, there are no conditioners in this shampoo to hinder the locking process.

Knotty Boy dreadlock shampoo is the best way to keep your dreads looking neat and healthy.

What you Ought to Know

This is it - the world's first all-natural shampoo made just for dreadlocks.

Minty-fresh and invigorating, the Knotty Boy Dreadlock Shampoo will keep your dreads and sensitive scalp smelling and feeling great, partly thanks to the tea tree oil!

Also available in a 4.75oz dreadlock Bar form, this liquid Shampoo is residue-free and free of any conditioners that might hinder the locking process.

This rosemary, tea tree oil & peppermint formula helps to soothe the scalp, and it's excellent for all-over body use.

So why not try this natural approach to healthy dreadlocks? You'll be glad you used tea tree with this knotty boy bar option!

Best Shampoo for All Hair Types

Knatty Dread Dreadlocks Shampoo

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Why GG Loves It

Introducing Knatty Dread Dreadlocks Shampoos! This residue-free and unscented liquid shampoo is great for maintaining dreadlocks of all hair types.

Knatty Dread loc shampoo helps tighten existing dreadlocks and assist new growth in locking, giving you healthy and beautiful dreadlocks that you can be proud of.

What you Ought to Know

Have you ever switched shampoos and found that the new shampoo seemed to work better at first but after a while it made your hair feel heavy? That's because most shampoos leave residue that builds up over time.

But with Knatty Dread Residue Free Dreadlocks Shampoo, you'll notice your dreads lock faster and your hair will feel cleaner.

This renewable coconut oil based formula is completely residue free and unscented, making it great for dreadlocks and all hair types. It also reduces drying time after washing.

So if you're looking for a shampoo that will make your dreads look and feel their best, try Knatty Dread Residue Free Dreadlocks Shampoo.

Best Super Hydrating Shampoo

Twisted Sista Luxurious Clarifying Shampoo

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Why GG Loves It

Looking for a shampoo that will make your hair look and feel amazing? Look no further than Twisted Sista Luxurious Clarifying Shampoo!

This super hydrating shampoo is formulated with Coconut and Avocado Oils to seal in moisture and avoid future drying.

Almond Oil nutrients allow your hair to grow strong and healthy, while also protecting split ends.

Your hair will feel softer, smoother, and more manageable after just one use. Plus, the refreshing scent of Coconut and Avocado will leave your hair smelling amazing all day long.

So why wait? Try Twisted Sista Luxurious Clarifying Shampoo today and see the difference!

What you Ought to Know

Most people shampoo their hair regularly, but not everyone knows that sulfate-free shampoo is actually better for your sensitive scalp. Sulfates are harsh chemicals that can strip away natural essential oils, leading to dryness and irritation.

Additionally, sulfate-free shampoo often contains natural ingredients like coconut and avocado oils, which help to hydrate and moisturize the scalp. And finally, almond oil is rich in nutrients that can help to promote healthy hair growth.

So if you're looking for a shampoo that will help keep your scalp healthy, look for one that's sulfate-free.

Best Shampoo Bar

Dollylocks Shampoo Bar for Dreadlocks

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Why GG Loves It

Looking for a natural, gentle shampoo for your dreadlocks? Look no further than Dollylocks Shampoo Bar! This soothing dreadlock shampoo bar helps calm irritation while improving scalp health, hair elasticity, and strength.

It also provides effective cleansing for healthy scalp and hair, leaving you feeling squeaky clean. Plus, it's made with natural ingredients and is free of harsh chemicals.

So why wait? Give Dollylocks Scalp Care Shampoo Bar a try today!

What you Ought to Know

Do you like the idea of using a natural, plant-based shampoo that is also good for you? If so, you will love this new Shampoo Bar!

The Shampoo Bar is made with coconut, sea salt, and mango seed butter to help soothe irritation while improving scalp and hair elasticity. It is lightweight and residue free shampoo, leaving the scalp refreshed and hair squeaky clean.

The Shampoo Bar provides gentle yet effective cleansing for healthy scalp and hair, with a scent that will awaken and lift your spirits!

So if you are looking for an invigorating, antioxidant-rich shampoo that is also good for you, try this new Bar! You will love it!

Best Deadlock Locking Powder

Dollylocks Dreadlock Locking Powder

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Why GG Loves It

Dreadlocks are a unique and stylish way to wear your hair, and Dollylocks Dreadlock Locking Powder can help you achieve the perfect look.

Made with organic ingredients, this powder is designed to absorb excess oil, provide Vitamin E, and keep your dreadlocks looking fresh and clean.

The essential oils in the powder stimulate and refresh the scalp, and the powder also provides grip to a crochet hook when maintaining roots. If you have loose, unruly hair, this powder can help lock it up for a neat, polished look.

What you Ought to Know

If you're looking for a product to help with excess oil,stimulate your scalp, and keep your hair in place, look no further! This perfect mixture of ingredients will do the trick no matter what your hairdo is.

Not to mention, your scalp will feel refreshed and revived. This is ideal for those with dreadlocks as it provides a tight grip.

Oily hair? Say goodbye to that problem! This product is guaranteed to leave you feeling satisfied.

Shampoo for Dreads FAQs

Dreadlocks are a popular hairstyle, but they require special care.

If you're new to dreads, the thought of caring for them can be daunting. What type of shampoo should you use? How often should you wash them? Will they ever stop being greasy?

We've got all the answers to your questions about shampoo for dreads right here in our FAQ section. From how to get started with dreadlocks to how to keep them looking their best, we've got you covered.

How Often Should I Wash my Dreads?

Dreadlocks should be washed as often as needed. In general, people with short dreads should wash them more often than those with long dreads.

The best way to determine how often to wash your dreadlocks is to feel them. If they feel greasy or dirty, then they need to be washed.

Some people use a mild shampoo and conditioner every few days, while others only wash their locks once a month. It's important not to over-wash dreadlocks, as this can strip the hair's natural oils and lead to dryness and frizziness.

How Often Should I Oil my Locs?

It depends on your hair type. People with tightly coiled hair should oil their locs every two weeks, while people with looser curls can go up to four weeks without oiling.

Oil is an important part of keeping locs healthy because it conditions the hair, prevents dryness, and helps to reduce frizz.

If you have trouble retaining moisture in your locs, then oiling them every week is a good idea.

However, if your locks are already quite moisturized then you may only need to oil them every other week or once a month.

Ultimately, finding the right frequency for oiling your locs will come down to trial and error. Start by oiling them more often than you think you should.

How Often Should I Retwist my Locs?

It's best to retwist your locs every two weeks. This helps to prevent them from becoming matted and twisted.

When you first begin to lock your hair, it's important to retwist it often (every day if possible) in order to form strong, healthy locks.

As your hair grows longer, you can space out the retwisting to every other day, then every week, and finally every two weeks.

If you allow your locs to become too matted or twisted, they can be difficult (and painful) to untangle.

Is Leave in Conditioner Good for Dreadlocks?

There is no one definitive answer to this question. Some people feel that leave in conditioners help to keep their dreadlocks looking healthy and hydrated, while others find that the conditioners make their dreadlocks greasy and heavy.

Ultimately, it comes down to what works best for your individual hair types.

Why do Locs Itch after Retwist?

One of the reasons why locs may itch after retwisting is because the newly-formed twists are not lubricated properly, which can cause them to rub against a cause an extremely sensitive scalp and stimulate nerve endings, leading to itching.

Another reason why locs may itch after retwisting is because the new growth at the roots may be dry hair and brittle hair, which can also lead to itching.

In order to prevent or reduce itching after retwisting, it's important to make sure that your hair is well-hydrated both before and after the process. You can do this by using a good moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, as well as a leave-in conditioner.

Additionally, you can apply an oil such as coconut oil or jojoba oil to your locs after retwisting to help seal in moisture.

What Happens if I Don't Retwist my Locs?

If you don't retwist your locs, they will eventually start to unravel and look messy.

Additionally, if you don't retwist them often enough, the locs may start to form knots which can be difficult to remove.

How Can I Make my Dreads Lock Faster?

There are a few things you can do to make your dreads lock faster.

First, try sleeping in a braid or knot. This will help keep your hair neat and tidy, and will stop it from unraveling.

Second, use a dread wax or locking gel to help hold your dreads together.

Third, avoid washing your hair too often. Washing your hair too frequently can strip the natural oils from your scalp and hair, which can slow down the locking process.

Fourth, try using a scalp massage oil or balm to stimulate hair growth and promote locks formation.

And finally, be patient! It may take a while for your dreads to lock completely.

Do Retwists make Dreads Longer?

It is possible that retwists can make dreads longer, but this largely depends on how tight the retwist is and how well the dreads are maintained between retwists.

If a retwist is done too tightly, it can cause stress on the frizzy hair and lead to breakage. This in turn can cause the dreads to become shorter.

On the other hand, if a retwist is done properly and the dreads are kept healthy in between retwists, then it is possible that they will be able to grow longer.

Can You Rinse Your Hair with Apple Cider Vinegar After Shampoo Bar?

Yes, rinsing your hair with apple cider vinegar (ACV) after using a shampoo bar is a common practice for many people.

Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse:

  • pH Balance: Apple cider vinegar helps balance the pH of your hair, promoting a healthy environment for your hair to thrive.
  • Clarifying: It can help remove product buildup, excess oils, and residues from the hair.
  • Natural Shine: Many people find that an apple cider vinegar rinse leaves their hair shinier and more manageable.
  • Scalp Health: The antimicrobial properties of apple cider vinegar may contribute to a healthier scalp.

Remember, individual results may vary, and it's advisable to test any new hair care routine on a small section of hair to ensure compatibility with your hair types whether it be non-bleached or bleached hair. If you have specific concerns or conditions, consulting with a hair care professional is recommended.

How do You Keep Your Dreads Thicker?

You can keep your dreads thicker by regularly moisturizing them with a healthy oil like coconut oil, olive oil, or jojoba oil, avoiding regular shampoos.

Another way to thicken up your dreads is by using a dread wax or locking gel.

These products help to coat each natural hair strand and add some extra bulk, which can make your dreads look fuller and more defined.

Finally, try not to wash your dreads too often.

Washing them too frequently can strip away their natural oils and cause them to become thin and brittle, consider castor oil for extra shine.

The Best Shampoo for Dreadlocks!

The best shampoos for Dreadlocks can be a beautiful and unique style, but they require special care.

In order to keep them looking their best, it is important to use the right shampoo, whilst avoiding regular shampoo! As this can lead to matted hair if not cared for properly.

We have highlighted some of the best dreadlock shampoos for dreads on the market, so be sure to check them out.

Other important ingredients to consider are sodium laureth sulfate which carries some health warnings to other organic ingredients like argan oil, avocado oil, castor oil, apple cider vinegar, shea butter, peppermint oil, tea tree oils, aloe vera, sweet almond oil and rosemary oil are all worth considering.

Your hair texture, hair strands, hair cuticles, hair breakage, and hair color all play a part in your decision on what to choose.

For example, should it be a gentle formula, a deep cleanse or deep cleansing shampoo, or even baby shampoo for those sensitive scalps out there?!

A lot of people swear the most important deciding factor is hair texture and whether the individual has thinning hair, thick hair, or just thicker hair full stop.

If you are looking for a shampoo that will help keep your dreads healthy and vibrant, then these are definitely worth considering. Thanks for reading!


Tap the button to check the price for the best shampoo for dreadlocks!

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