The routine doesn’t have to be complicated. It simply needs a little more care and enough time for the hair inside the braids to dry.
A few things to keep in mind
Focus on your scalp. The main aim is to clean the roots and remove oil, dust, and product buildup. Avoid vigorously rubbing or scrubbing the dread extensions themselves.
Work with shampoo foam. Mixing shampoo with a little water makes it easier to spread along the sections. In the routine described here, conditioner, masks, clarifying shampoo, and color-depositing shampoo are not applied to the installed set.
Support wet extensions. They absorb water and become heavier. One option is washing while reclining in a bath so that the weight is supported, rather than pulling on the scalp and neck.
Discuss the washing schedule for your installation. The timing should take your scalp and lifestyle into account, rather than following the same fixed interval for everyone.
Step 1. Get comfortable
Set aside enough time. If using a bath, prepare warm water and get into a comfortable position that supports the extensions. Music can make the routine feel more relaxed.
Step 2. Make a light foam
Mix shampoo with a little water. You can use a small bowl or a foaming bottle. A foam dispenser makes it easier to distribute the mixture between the dread extensions.
Step 3. Clean along the sections
Apply the foam to your scalp along the partings. Spread it gently with your fingertips and lightly massage the scalp. Avoid pulling on the braids or scrubbing the lengths.
Step 4. Rinse thoroughly
Use plenty of water to rinse the roots and partings. Make sure no shampoo is left behind.
Step 5. Remove excess water
Gently squeeze the extensions so water can drain out. Avoid harsh twisting or wringing, but remove as much excess water as you can.
Step 6. Use a large towel
Gently blot from the top down. For smooth dreads, move carefully along the length. For textured dreads, gently scrunching them in the towel can help absorb moisture while preserving the texture.
Wrap the hairstyle in the towel carefully, supporting its weight with your hand.
Step 7. Spread the extensions out
Lay the lengths over a towel, for example on a cushion or the back of a sofa, so air can circulate and they can dry more evenly.
Step 8. If needed, use a hair dryer
Use a moderate temperature and follow the guidance for your particular set. Sets that include synthetic curls or other fibers may need different care from plain wool dreads.
Step 9. Let the hair inside the braids dry fully
The extensions may feel dry before your own hair inside the braids is fully dry. Allow enough time for both.
Does wool take longer to dry than Kanekalon?
The answer depends partly on how much water is removed first. In my experience, a well-squeezed wool set can dry in a similar time to Kanekalon, but the set’s thickness and drying conditions make a difference.
With practice, washing becomes a familiar part of wearing your set. Then you can get back to enjoying your look ❤️