Locs Vs Dreads

Locs vs. Dreads: An Exploration of Two Iconic Styles

For many years, locs and dreads have been popular hairstyles among people of African descent. They serve as a symbol of African and Caribbean culture. Both styles involve growing hair into long, matted strands, but there are differences between them. In this blog post, we’ll look at the similarities and differences between locs and dreads, and the cultural significance they carry.

What are Locs and Dreads?

Locs and dreads have similar appearances – long, matted hair formed into thick strands. However, there are some subtle differences. Locs, short for “dreadlocks,” are created by a natural process in which hair strands form mats over time. This process can take several months to years, depending on hair density, texture, and length. Locs are formed by binding hair together using twisting and matting. Hair is washed and maintained with natural oils and water.

On the other hand, dreads are a style in which hair is intentionally twisted or knotted into mats. This process usually involves backcombing or twisting the hair and tightly securing it in place with wax or gel. The hair is washed with shampoo and conditioned with products that lock in the style. Dreadlocks can be longer or shorter than locs, depending on the desired length.

Similarities and Differences

Although there are some differences between the two styles, they both share some commonalities. One of the most significant similarities is their cultural significance. For many people of African descent, locs and dreads represent a connection to their heritage and an expression of black pride. They are often seen as a symbol of resistance against mainstream beauty standards that prioritize straight, Eurocentric hairstyles.

Another similarity is the commitment required to maintain both styles. Locs and dreads require consistent maintenance to remain healthy, clean, and well-groomed. They must be washed and conditioned regularly using natural products that do not leave residue, such as avocado butter, coconut oil, or shea butter. For both styles, it’s imperative to massage the scalp to stimulate blood circulation, which keeps hair follicles healthy and promotes hair growth.

As for the differences between the two styles, the key lies in the way hair is formed. Locs are created through a natural process that involves less manipulation and product usage. In contrast, dreads are formed through manual manipulation and require more product to hold the style together.

Another difference is the hair texture. Locs are generally formed from coarser and thicker hair, while dreads can be formed from a wider range of hair textures. This is because the twisting and backcombing used for dreads allow for more control over the texture of the hair. It can be done on fine or straight hair.

Cultural Significance

Locs and dreads are culturally significant. For many people, they represent not only a personal style choice but also a form of resistance against societal norms that exclude or discriminate against people of African descent. Styles have been embraced as a way to reclaim black cultural identity and celebrate natural beauty. This is often marginalized or dismissed in mainstream society. For Rastafarians, locs hold a deep spiritual significance. Hair represents the life force or dread, which should be allowed to grow and form naturally. They also believe that hair is a reflection of one’s connection to nature and God, and should be respected as such. This is why many Rastafarians grow locs to connect with their faith and demonstrate their commitment to living a natural, unadorned lifestyle. However, despite the cultural importance of locs and dreads, people face discrimination for wearing these styles. In some workplaces, schools, and public spaces, people with locs or dreads have been subject to discriminatory policies that force them to cut or change their hair. This is often in violation of their cultural beliefs and personal identity.

In 2019, California became the first state in the U.S. to ban discrimination based on a hairstyle. This was inspired by incidents of discrimination against black people with locs or dreads. This was a step in the right direction and a sign that attitudes towards natural black hairstyles are slowly changing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, locs and dreads are two iconic hairstyles embraced by black people around the world. Both styles hold deep cultural significance and are often seen as a way to connect with African heritage. They also resist beauty standards that exclude black features. Although there are some differences between the two styles, they share many similarities, including the importance of maintaining healthy hair and scalps. Despite the significance of these styles, discriminatory attitudes still exist.