How long does my hair have to be to get them?
I recommended to be at least 4 inches long. About 6-7 inches is the best length to work with. Also be aware it is preferable to have the dread extensions at least as long as your real hair.
Can you install dreads for me?
No, I’m sorry, I do not do installation. However, I provide an easy to follow instruction guide, and it’s very easy to do! You can either braid in the dreads by yourself, have a friend do it, or even find a local hair stylist to do it for you.
How do I braid in double-ended dreads?
You can do this yourself or get a friend to help you. You will need double-ended dreads, small rubber bands and a few hours to spare.
Download the NifNaks Dread Installation Guide [PDF]
How long does it take to install?
This varies wildly depending how much hair you have. As a rule, a full head of dreads takes around 3 – 5 hours, sometimes a little longer if you are doing it solo, or if the braider is new to braiding. Pop in a movie or two, and spend some quality time with that good friend of yours!
Will getting extensions make my hair fall out?
When you remove your dreads you will see a loss of hair, but no panic! Humans usually lose around 100 hairs a day. All the hairs you have lost during the period you had your dreads installed, will come out at the same time. It will look like a bit much, but this is absolutely normal.
I have sensitive skin/scalp, can I still get extensions?
Some people do actually have extremely sensitive scalps which just don’t take extensions very well. You’ll usually need to have them done to know, but you could get an idea if you might be prone to discomfort or excessive hair pulling by doing a few small but reasonably tight braids somewhere on your own head and leaving them in for a few days, maybe pull them a bit, and see how your scalp fares. If you don’t have any discomfort or flakiness occurring, try a full head, though be aware sometimes you will still not be a suitable candidate.
How do I care for my dread extensions? How can I wash my hair while I have dreads?
You can choose to wash your hair, or not, when you have dread extensions. If you decide to, be aware that the wet wool dreads are very heavy!
The recommended method was soapy shampoo and warm water in a bucket over my scalp once a week, but I cheat sometimes and simply do it under the shower occasionally. Try not to use too much shampoo and rinse very thoroughly to avoid rests of soap on your scalp. This would give itch and irritation, and it isn’t very healthy for the wool either.
If you decide, not to wash your hair, I’d recommend you to wash your scalp every 2-3 days with a solution of water and tea tree oil (don’t use too much oil, it's strong stuff and it will sting).
When you remove your dreads, you can wash them in some tepid water with a bit of soap. You can also wash them alone in the washing machine using the hand-wash or the wool program. Make sure you put the dreads in a lingerie bag or in a pillowcase before starting the machine. When they are clean, hang them to dry.
Can dreads be used again after they’re removed my hair?
Yes, after you have washed and dried them, they are ready to be used again. Even better, you can attach them to hair elastics to use as falls whenever you feel like adding a bit of pizzazze to your wardrobe!