Dreadlocks Course

Lesson 1 • The Science of Hair Locking

Explains how cuticle interlocking, shrinkage, and matting create permanent locks. Builds the conceptual foundation for all installation and maintenance techniques.

Lesson 2 • Hair Structure and Growth Basics

Covers cortex, cuticle, and medulla layers and how they affect locking. Connects biological hair knowledge to practical dreadlock formation decisions.

Lesson 3 • Scalp Health and Hair Hygiene

Addresses sebum production, pH balance, and scalp conditions relevant to dreadlocks. Healthy scalp practices prevent buildup and promote strong lock formation.

Lesson 1 • Essential Tools and Their Uses

Identifies combs, clips, needles, hooks, and sectioning tools specific to dreadlock work. Proper tool knowledge ensures precision and reduces hair damage.

Lesson 2 • Product Knowledge and Selection

Covers waxes, gels, locking sprays, and residue-free shampoos used in dreadlock services. Product chemistry knowledge prevents buildup and supports healthy locks.

Lesson 3 • Client Consultation Process

Guides structured intake conversations covering hair history, lifestyle, and goals. Effective consultation prevents mismatched services and builds client trust.

Lesson 1 • Perimeter and Hairline Sectioning

Focuses on edge, nape, and temple sectioning to create clean, professional perimeters. Hairline sections require smaller sizing and extra care to prevent thinning.

Lesson 2 • Sectioning Fundamentals and Grid Patterns

Introduces square, brick-lay, and diamond grid patterns and their structural implications. Grid selection directly affects lock uniformity and scalp coverage.

Lesson 3 • Sectioning for Different Hair Textures

Adapts parting techniques for fine, coarse, straight, and tightly coiled hair types. Texture-specific sectioning ensures even locking and reduces breakage risk.

Lesson 1 • Backcombing and Teasing Method

Demonstrates backcombing for straight and wavy hair types that resist natural locking. Proper technique creates immediate texture without excessive breakage.

Lesson 2 • Freeform and Organic Locking

Explains the freeform approach where hair locks naturally without manipulation. Students understand when to recommend freeform and how to guide the process.

Lesson 3 • Two-Strand Twist Method

Teaches the two-strand twist as a starter method for coily and wavy hair textures. This method creates defined sections that mature into uniform locks over time.

Lesson 4 • Comb Coil and Palm Roll Method

Covers comb coiling for tightly coiled textures and palm rolling for early-stage shaping. Both techniques encourage cylindrical lock formation from the root.

Lesson 1 • Moisture and Scalp Nourishment

Teaches oil application, scalp massages, and hydration routines specific to locked hair. Balanced moisture prevents brittleness and supports healthy lock growth.

Lesson 2 • Maintenance Scheduling and Client Plans

Guides creation of personalized maintenance schedules based on texture, lifestyle, and lock stage. Structured plans improve client retention and lock health outcomes.

Lesson 3 • Separating and Preventing Congos

Addresses lock separation to prevent unintended merging at the roots. Timely separation preserves the original sectioning grid and individual lock definition.

Lesson 4 • Retwisting and Root Maintenance

Covers palm roll retwisting and interlocking for root tightening at appropriate intervals. Consistent root maintenance prevents thinning and maintains lock integrity.

Lesson 1 • Diagnosing Common Dreadlock Issues

Teaches visual and tactile assessment of thinning, weak roots, mildew, and buildup. Accurate diagnosis determines the correct repair approach and prevents further damage.

Lesson 2 • Repairing Thinning and Broken Locks

Covers crochet repair, thread wrapping, and root reinforcement for structurally weak locks. Repair techniques extend lock life and restore client confidence.

Lesson 3 • Buildup Removal and Deep Cleansing

Demonstrates apple cider vinegar rinses, baking soda soaks, and clarifying treatments. Removing buildup restores lock flexibility and eliminates odor-causing residue.

Lesson 4 • Correcting Installation Errors

Addresses misaligned grids, uneven lock sizes, and improper tension from initial installation. Early correction prevents long-term structural and aesthetic problems.

Lesson 1 • Decorative Accessories and Adornments

Demonstrates safe use of beads, cuffs, wraps, and threads to personalize dreadlock styles. Accessory placement must not stress lock roots or cause breakage.

Lesson 2 • Foundational Styling Concepts

Introduces tension, balance, and proportion principles applied to dreadlock styling. Understanding these concepts ensures styles are both aesthetic and structurally safe.

Lesson 3 • Updos, Buns, and Pinned Styles

Teaches gathered updos, high buns, and pinned arrangements suitable for all lock lengths. These styles protect locks and offer professional and formal presentation options.

Lesson 4 • Braiding and Twisting Locked Hair

Covers three-strand braids, flat twists, and cornrow-style arrangements using mature locks. Braided lock styles add texture and dimension while protecting individual locks.

Lesson 1 • Dreadlock Extensions Installation

Teaches attachment of human hair and synthetic dreadlock extensions to add length or volume. Extension services require precise matching and secure attachment methods.

Lesson 2 • Color Application on Locked Hair

Covers semi-permanent, permanent, and bleach color techniques adapted for dreadlocks. Color chemistry knowledge prevents structural damage to locked hair strands.

Lesson 3 • Specialty Texture and Hair Challenges

Addresses chemically relaxed, color-treated, and heat-damaged hair transitioning into dreadlocks. Compromised hair requires modified techniques to achieve successful locking.

Lesson 4 • Sisterlocks and Microlocs Services

Introduces the principles of very small, uniform loc systems requiring specialized tools and training. Students understand the service scope and referral boundaries for certified systems.