🎨 Can You Dye Real Dreads?

Here’s How to Colour Them Safely and Beautifully...

Wondering if you can dye your real locs? Yes, you can! Learn how to colour locs safely, prevent damage, and keep them healthy and vibrant - whether you’re new to your loc journey or already have mature ones.

💛 Yes - You Can Dye Your Locs!

Absolutely! Real locs are your natural hair, just locked. That means you can dye them... but the process is a little different from colouring loose hair.

With the right preparation and care, your locs can look bold, vibrant, and healthy after colouring. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Can I dye my locs?” the answer is a confident yes - and here’s exactly how to do it safely...

🌈 Before You Start Your Locs: Dye First for the Best Results

If you’re starting your loc journey and already dreaming of a new colour, the best time to dye your hair is before getting your locs installed.

When your hair is still loose, colour can be applied evenly from root to tip. Once your hair locks, dye doesn’t always penetrate evenly, which can lead to uneven shades or hidden patches inside the locs.

By dyeing before you loc your hair, you’ll start with a consistent colour base. As your natural roots grow out, the transition will look smoother and easier to maintain.

💫 How to Dye Mature Locs Safely

If your locs are already formed and you’re ready for a colour change, you can definitely do it - just follow a few important steps to keep them strong, healthy, and hydrated.

• Locs absorb more colour than loose hair, so you’ll need more product than usual.

• Make sure each loc is fully covered so the colour looks even.

• Rinse thoroughly to avoid build-up or dull tones.

• If possible, work with a stylist who specialises in locs and colour.

  
  

(We have a fantastic colour specialist in Dorset who is happy to work with our client's locs! send us a message if you’d like to book a professional colour session!)

When done carefully, the result is long-lasting, rich colour that enhances the natural beauty and texture of your locs.

🔗 What About Loc Extensions?

If you’ve added human hair extensions to your locs, you can usually dye them - but don’t expect them to react exactly like your natural hair. Processed or pre-treated extensions may absorb colour differently.

If your extensions are synthetic, they cannot be dyed. Synthetic fibres won’t absorb colour and will stay the same shade no matter what dye you use.

If you’re unsure which type you have, check with your loctician or stylist before colouring.

⚡ Bleaching Locs - Proceed with Caution

Bleaching can help you achieve lighter or brighter colours, but it’s also one of the riskiest processes for locs. Because locs are dense and hold less moisture, bleach can weaken the hair and make it dry or brittle if not handled carefully.

If you’re going for platinum, silver, or pastel tones, it’s best to work with a professional who understands both bleaching and loc care. Always deep-condition and moisturise your locs afterward to restore softness and strength. (We have a fantastic colour specialist in Dorset who is happy to work with our client's locs! send us a message if you’d like to book a professional colour session!)

🌺 Want Colour Without Commitment? Try Synthetic Locs...

If you love experimenting with colour and mixing things up often...but don’t want to commit to permanent dye, synthetic locs are a fantastic alternative! You can braid colourful synthetic locs into your natural ones for a temporary, creative look - from bold rainbow hues to subtle highlights.

They’re an easy, low-risk way to switch up your style anytime you want - without touching your real locs.

💡 Final Thoughts: Keep Your Locs Strong, Vibrant & Beautiful

Dyeing your locs can be an exciting way to express yourself and refresh your look. The key is to be mindful, patient, and gentle throughout the process.

Here’s a quick summary:

✅ Dye before locking for an even colour base

✅ Use plenty of product and rinse thoroughly

✅ Be cautious with bleach - or get professional help

✅ Want lower maintenace: try synthetic locs for fun, temporary colour

With the right approach and aftercare, your locs will stay strong, radiant, and full of life - no matter what colour you choose!

We hope that was helpful for you! If you wish to book in a free consultation, get a quote or ask us any questions please fill in the contact form on our website! 💛

(See below a photo of our amazing client Katie who always visits us and has a different colour of locs! - She dyes them herself and is careful with them and they are very healthy locs!)