Braids vs. Dreadlocks: What’s the Difference?
Braids and dreadlocks are popular hairstyles for people with textured hair. They’re often used as protective styles that help keep your hair healthy while allowing you to express your personal style.
But what’s the difference between these two styles, and which one is right for you?
This guide will compare braids and dreadlocks in detail, covering their differences, maintenance needs, advantages, disadvantages, and suitability for different hair types and lifestyles. Before we get into the details, it’s important to note that neither style is inherently better than the other. The best choice depends on your hair health, maintenance preferences, and desired aesthetic.
Understanding Braids
Braids and dreadlocks are two very different ways of styling hair. Here’s a look at braids:
What are braids?
Braids are created when three or more strands of hair are interlaced. Braids can be simple or complex, and you can braid your hair in all sorts of patterns and styles.
There are many different types of braids, including cornrows, box braids, knotless braids, and feed-in braids. Each type of braid has its own characteristics and ways of being installed.
History and cultural significance
Braiding has been around for thousands of years, and it’s especially important in African cultures. Historically, braids have been a way to show who you are, what your status is, and where you come from.
Braids are extremely versatile, and you can use them to express yourself in many different ways.
Understanding dreadlocks
Dreadlocks and braids are both ways to keep your hair out of your face, but that’s where the similarity ends. Dreadlocks are quite different from braids.
What are dreadlocks?
Dreadlocks are matted or knotted sections of hair that form into coils. They can occur naturally if you just let your hair grow without combing or brushing, or you can create them using specific techniques.
Dreadlocks are considered a semi-permanent style, meaning they can last for years.
There are a number of ways to create dreadlocks, including:
- Freeform (letting the hair mat on its own)
- Backcombing
- Palm rolling
- Crochet method
The method you use to create your dreadlocks will affect how they look and how much maintenance they require.
History and cultural significance
Dreadlocks have a long and storied history. They’ve been worn in many cultures, including ancient civilizations and the Rastafarian culture. In these cultures, dreadlocks often symbolize spirituality, cultural identity, or rebellion.
Over time, social perceptions of dreadlocks have changed. While they were once seen as unconventional, they’re now more widely accepted and even celebrated.
Braids vs. Dreadlocks: Key Differences
Braids and dreadlocks are both beautiful ways to style your hair, but they differ in creation, maintenance, and longevity.
Style Creation, Duration, and Permanence
Braids are temporary styles that you’ll need to re-do regularly. Cornrows, for example, can last for 6 to 8 weeks, but they’ll need maintenance or complete re-doing after that. On the plus side, it only takes 2 to 4 hours to create cornrows.
Dreadlocks, on the other hand, are semi-permanent or permanent. You’ll need to maintain them, but they’re designed to last a long time. Keep in mind that the initial dreadlock installation can take 4 to 8 hours.
Maintenance and Care
Braids require regular washing and moisturizing to keep your hair from getting dry and breaking. You’ll need to take care to prevent damage. Sleeping in a cap can help keep cornrows neat.
Dreadlocks also need regular washing and moisturizing. You’ll need to separate them regularly to maintain their shape and keep them from matting together. You may need to see a stylist every 4 to 6 weeks for maintenance, at least in the beginning. It’s best to avoid washing dreadlocks during the initial stages.
Styling Versatility
Braids offer a ton of styling options, from simple plaits to complex, intricate patterns. You can really get creative with braids!
Dreadlocks also offer versatility, but more so once they’re established. You can style them in updos, braids, and other creative looks.
Braids: Pros and Cons
Braids have been a popular styling choice for centuries, and for good reason. They offer a lot of flexibility and can even be good for your hair, if done right. But there are also some potential drawbacks to consider.
Pros
- Versatile styling options: Braids can be styled in countless ways, from simple plaits to intricate updos.
- Potential hair growth: When installed and maintained properly, braids can protect your natural hair and promote growth by minimizing manipulation.
- Protective style: Braids can shield your hair from environmental damage, heat styling, and excessive handling.
Cons
- Tension and breakage: If installed too tightly, braids can put stress on your scalp and lead to breakage, thinning, or even hair loss.
- Maintenance: Braids require regular touch-ups and styling to keep them looking fresh and prevent frizz.
- Weight and discomfort: Braids, especially with added extensions, can be heavy and uncomfortable, causing headaches or neck pain.
Dreadlocks: Pros and Cons
Dreadlocks are a commitment. They’re a long-term hairstyle that, with the right care, can last a lifetime. But they aren’t for everyone. Here’s a quick look at the upsides and downsides of choosing dreadlocks.
Pros
- Low maintenance: Once your dreadlocks are established, they’re fairly low-maintenance. You won’t have to style them every day.
- Longevity: Dreadlocks can last for years, even a lifetime, if properly cared for.
- Unique look: Dreadlocks offer a distinctive and natural look that sets you apart.
Cons
- High initial maintenance: Getting dreadlocks started takes time and effort. The initial stages can be challenging.
- Commitment: Dreadlocks require patience and a willingness to stick with the process.
- Difficult to remove: Removing dreadlocks is often difficult and can require cutting your hair. Think carefully before committing.
Braids vs. Dreadlocks: How to choose
If you’re trying to decide between braids and dreadlocks, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Hair type and texture: What is your natural curl pattern? Do you have thick or fine hair?
- Lifestyle and maintenance: How much time do you want to spend on your hair?
- Aesthetic: Which style do you like better? Which one suits you more?
- Hair health: Is your hair thinning? Do you have any scalp problems?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a braid turn into a dread?
Yes, if left unattended for a long time, braids can start to naturally lock together, forming something similar to dreadlocks. This happens as the hair grows out and tangles at the roots, eventually matting together with the braided hair. However, it’s not quite the same as intentionally created dreads.
What do Jamaicans call braids?
In Jamaica, braids are often referred to simply as “braids.” However, depending on the specific style, you might hear terms like “cornrows” or “plaits” used as well. The term used often depends on the context and the particular braiding technique.
What is the difference between dreads and braids?
Braids are created by interlacing three or more strands of hair in a specific pattern, and they are meant to be temporary. Dreads, on the other hand, are matted or locked sections of hair that form over time, either naturally or through specific styling techniques. Dreads are a more permanent hairstyle.
Are cornrows braids or dreadlocks?
Cornrows are a type of braid. They are created by braiding the hair very close to the scalp in raised, continuous rows. While cornrows can eventually lead to dreading if left unattended for an extended period, they are fundamentally a braiding style.
Wrapping Up
When it comes to braids versus dreadlocks, there’s no single right answer. The best choice depends on your hair type, lifestyle, and personal preferences. So take a look at the pros and cons of each hairstyle, and talk with a qualified hair professional before you make your final decision.