How to Dye Locs: Everything You Need to Know (2024)

If you have locs, don't ever let anyone tell you that the style isn't versatile. Locs can be cut, curled, and, yes, even dyed. However, since the hair isn't loose, you'll need to know how to dye locs because you switch up your color.

For instance, you'll want to think about what shade you want, whether you want to dye your full head of locs, stick with highlights, or opt for an ombré finish. You'll also want to beveryspecific about who you go to for your dye job because not every hairstylist or colorist is trained to work with locs — even if they're curly hair connoisseurs.

Here, we spoke with hair artist and loc expertJennifer Lord— who has had blonde locs herself — to learn more about the dyeing process. She also shared a few other helpful tips below.

What to Know Before Dyeing Your Locs

You'll need to ensure your locs are healthy and free of any damage by doing a self-assessment, but you should have a loc expert examine your hair as well.

According to Lord,damaged dreadlocksare normal and can be caused by medications, an unbalanced diet, stress, and even genetics. For reference, damaged locs might be broken or matted, have broken hairs at the base, or be thinning at the edges.

If your locs are fine and you decide to go for the new color, don't be afraid to research and ask questions before you take the plunge.

"Inquire about the ingredients in the color to ensure you're not allergic to anything, and make sure you don't irritate your scalp prior to color application," Lord advised.

"Also, during the consultation, ask for a strand test on one of your locs to make sure it's the color you're looking to achieve and that you don't have a negative reaction to the product," added Lord.

Lord noted that if this isn't your first rodeo with hair color, you should be careful not to over-process the hair.

"One should avoid dyeing locs if they have done color within the last six to eight weeks," she said.

Salon vs. DIY

According to Lord, unless you're a loc expert, it's best to leave this type of job to professionals to avoid potential hair damage. "Locs coloring requires a level of expertise that is gained through years of experience," she explained.

In terms of the dyes themselves, Lord is a fan of both Naturtint and Herbatint. "They are mostly plant-based and have no ammonia," she explained. "While [they] still have a chemical for lifting, it's much milder than other coloring systems." However, once you visit your stylist, they can assess your hair and decide which dye is best suited for you.

Why You May Not Want to See a General Colorist

Unless they specialize in loc care, it's better to be safe than sorry. "Ihighlyrecommend going to a professional loctician and colorist with years of loc coloring experience," Lord said.

Since the hair strands aren't loose, special steps need to be taken to ensure the dye is properly applied and rinsed out. Also, depending on where you are in your loc journey, you may or may not be able to use certain treatment or conditioning products after your hair has been dyed.

So yeah, leave it to the people who have years of experience dealing with and dyeing locs.

VIDEO: 6 Twisted Hairstyle Ideas for Anyone with Natural Hair

Keeping Locs Healthy After a Color Treatment

According to Lord, when it comes to locs, doing less is more. It's fine to stick with your regular wash day and maintenance routine unless your loctician suggests otherwise. "However, essential oils are good for adding shine to your color and a healthy, vibrant look and feel," she said.

This isAll Natural.From the kinkiest coils to loose waves, we're celebrating natural hair in its many forms by sharing expert tips for styling, maintenance, and hair care.