Dreadlocks without the wait? Here’s how to make it happen
Being honest? Growing long locs is a journey, and not everyone has the patience for it. That in-between stage? The one where your hair is too short to style but not long enough to hang? Yeah, we’ve all been there. But what if we told you there’s a way to get the loc look instantly—without waiting years for your hair to grow?
Say hello to dreadlock extensions.
No matter if you’re just starting your loc journey, looking for extra length, or simply want to test the waters before committing, dreadlock extensions are the ultimate shortcut to achieving full, natural-looking locs. No awkward grow-out phase, no stress—just instant length, volume, and a perfect finish.
And the secret? You don’t need super long hair to pull this off. Even if your hair is just a few inches long, you can still rock extensions that blend seamlessly with your natural texture. The key? Choosing the right method, prepping your hair properly, and making sure your install lasts.
That’s exactly what we’re breaking down today. From how to prep your hair to step-by-step installation methods (even if your hair is on the shorter side), we’re covering everything you need to know to get your dream locs—in a flash.
What are dreadlock extensions (and why they’re a game-changer for short hair)?
If you’ve ever dreamt of having long, full, perfectly-formed locs but weren’t blessed with the patience of a monk, let’s introduce you to your new best friend: dreadlock extensions.
They’re the ultimate shortcut to loc’d perfection, giving you instant length, volume, and style—without the years-long waiting game. But before you dive in, let’s break down exactly what they are and why they’re about to change your hair game forever.
So… what are dreadlock extensions, exactly?
Dreadlock extensions are pre-made locs that you can attach to your natural hair to create seamless, natural-looking locs instantly. They come in different lengths, textures, and materials, so you can find a set that matches your vibe perfectly.
✔️ Human hair dreadlock extensions – The most natural-looking option. They blend beautifully, can be dyed, and even last permanently with your real hair over time. If you want long-term extensions, these are it.
✔️ Synthetic dreadlock extensions – More affordable and great for temporary styles. They come pre-styled and in a variety of colors, but they won’t integrate into your natural hair like human hair locs.
Why short-haired babes NEED dreadlock extensions
Growing locs takes dedication, care, and a whole lot of patience. If your hair is short, it can feel like you’re in a never-ending waiting game, stuck in that awkward length stage where styling is a struggle. But dreadlock extensions? They let you skip the growing pains and go straight to the good part.
The perks?
– Instant length & volume – No more waiting years for your locs to flourish.
– Protective & low-maintenance – Keeps your natural hair tucked away, reducing breakage.
– Super versatile – Want waist-length locs today and shoulder-length ones next month? You can switch them up whenever you want.
– Confidence boost on 100 – Because there’s nothing like the feeling of a fresh set of locs.
And the best bit? You don’t need long hair to make them work. Even if your hair is just 2-3 inches, you can install dreadlock extensions and have them looking natural, seamless, and absolutely STUNning
The history, culture, and power of locs
Locs are part of history, culture, and a statement all in one. From the Marleys to the Baileys, from ancient civilizations to modern-day runways, locs have been an iconic symbol of Black identity, resistance, and self-expression. And yet, despite their deep-rooted significance, they’ve been misunderstood, stigmatized, and—let’s be real—appropriated for far too long.
Where did locs come from?
No one can pinpoint exactly when locs first appeared, but what we do know is that they’ve been around for thousands of years. Historians have found depictions of locs in ancient Egyptian artifacts, Hindu Vedic scriptures, and early African civilizations. Locs were a style that symbolized spirituality, strength, and community.
Fast-forward to more recent history, and Bob Marley brought dreadlocks into mainstream consciousness through Jamaican Rastafarian culture, linking them to religious devotion, rebellion against colonial rule, and the belief in natural living.
But make no mistake—locs have always belonged to Black people and have existed far beyond any single movement.
Who are locs for?
Locs require dedication and care—they’re for those who want to embrace a style that celebrates natural hair in all its glory. If you love low-maintenance, protective styling and want a look that’s both beautiful and deeply meaningful, locs might just be for you.
But we have to be very clear—if you’re non-Black, this style is not for you. Locs are culturally significant to Black people, and wearing them as a trend or aesthetic—without acknowledging their history and the struggles Black people have faced because of them—is just *not it*.
Locs also may not be for you if:
🚫 You’re obsessed with keeping your edges laid 24/7 (locs thrive in their natural state).
🚫 You like to switch up your hairstyle every other week (they take commitment).
🚫 You think locs are just a “boho aesthetic” (read up on texturism and cultural appropriation).
The pros about locs/dreadlock extensions
Not everyone has the patience (or desire) to go through the multi-year process of growing locs from scratch—and that’s okay! That’s exactly why dreadlock extensions exist.
They allow you to:
✔️ Skip the awkward grow-out stage and go straight to long, thick, flourishing locs.
✔️ Experiment with length, color, and volume before fully committing.
✔️ Protect your natural hair while still rocking a powerful, deeply meaningful style.
How to prep your hair for dreadlock extensions
Listen, if you want your dreadlock extensions to look fresh, last long, and blend seamlessly, the prep work matters. You wouldn’t build a house without laying a solid foundation, right? Same goes for locs.
Prepping your hair properly before installing dreadlock extensions will protect your natural strands, prevent buildup, and ensure a smooth, stress-free install. So before you start attaching those extensions, let’s get your hair ready to slay.
Step 1—Cleanse & detox your scalp
A fresh install demands a fresh scalp. If you’re working with product buildup, excess oil, or any scalp irritation, your locs won’t hold up the way they should.
✔️ Use a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup and refresh your scalp.
✔️ Follow with a moisturizing shampoo to hydrate your strands.
✔️ Do an apple cider vinegar rinse if you’ve been using heavy products or oils.
Step 2—Deep condition & strengthen your hair
Even though dreadlock extensions are protective, you still need to make sure your natural hair is healthy, moisturized, and strong before installing them.
✔️ Use a protein treatment if your hair feels weak or prone to breakage.
✔️ Deep condition for at least 20-30 minutes to lock in moisture.
✔️ Avoid heavy creams & butters—they can cause buildup inside the locs.
Step 3—Stretch your hair (optional, but makes a difference!)
If your hair is super short, tightly coiled, or prone to shrinkage, stretching it before installing extensions can make the process easier and help with blending.
Ways to stretch your hair:
✔️ Blow-dry on low heat with a heat protectant.
✔️ Banding method—section your hair and wrap it with hair ties overnight.
✔️ Twist or braid your hair the night before and unravel in the morning.
Step 4—Section your hair for easy installation
Clean parts = a flawless install. Even if you’re installing the extensions yourself, parting your hair in advance will make everything go way smoother.
✔️ Decide on your loc size – Bigger sections = thicker locs, smaller sections = a more natural look.
✔️ Use a rat-tail comb for precision – Clean parts = a polished finish.
✔️ Clip away each section as you go to keep everything organized.
Step 5—Moisturize & prep your scalp
Your hair is about to be tucked away for a while, so let’s make sure your scalp is healthy and hydrated before installing the extensions.
✔️ Apply a lightweight oil (like jojoba or sweet almond) to your scalp.
✔️ Massage your roots to stimulate blood flow and promote hair growth.
✔️ Avoid heavy creams—they can clog your scalp and lead to buildup.
How to attach dreadlock extensions to short hair
Now that your hair is prepped, it’s time for the install. If your hair is a few inches long or pushing mid-length, dreadlock extensions can still be attached in a way that looks completely natural and lasts for months.
There are a few different methods to secure your extensions, and the best one for you depends on your hair length, texture, and how permanent you want the locs to be.
Method 1: Crochet method (most secure and long-lasting)
The crochet method uses a crochet hook to blend your natural hair into the extension, creating a seamless, long-lasting attachment.
1. Take a section of your hair and twist or braid it at the root for extra grip.
2. Place the looped end of the dreadlock extension at the base of your natural hair.
3. Using a crochet needle, pull strands of your natural hair into the loc, repeating until your hair is fully blended.
4. Palm roll the loc to smooth and secure the attachment.
This method is great for all hair lengths, including very short hair since the crochet tool locks the extension in tightly.
Method 2: Braid and wrap method (great for a softer, more flexible look)
If you prefer a method that’s easier to remove but still looks natural, braiding and wrapping is a solid option.
1. Braid your natural hair a few inches down from the root.
2. Align the dreadlock extension with the braid and begin wrapping a small strand of loose hair around both the extension and your natural braid.
3. Continue wrapping until the entire braid is covered and the extension feels secure.
4. Palm roll the loc to smooth everything out.
This method works best for medium-length hair (at least 3-4 inches) since it relies on the natural braid for hold.
Method 3: Two-strand twist method (best for softer, temporary styles)
If your goal is a temporary install that you can remove easily, this method is quick and effective.
1. Part a small section of your hair and divide it into two strands.
2. Position the dreadlock extension at the base of your hair.
3. Twist your two natural hair sections around the extension until fully blended.
4. Use a small amount of styling gel to keep the twist secure.
This technique is perfect for those who want to switch up their style frequently without committing to a long-term install.
Lock it in—Your loc journey starts now
Installing dreadlock extensions is all about embracing a look that is bold, powerful, and completely your own. It doesn’t matter if you’re skipping the awkward grow-out phase, or just testing the waters before fully committing, your extensions should look and feel secure and natural, ALWAYS.
To make sure they last:
1. Keep tension consistent—tight enough to hold but never so tight that it stresses your roots.
2. Palm roll regularly to help your locs settle and maintain their natural shape.
3. Check in on your locs every few weeks—especially if you used the crochet method—so you can retighten any loose areas and keep your install fresh.
Dreadlock extensions let you fast-track your loc journey while keeping your natural hair protected and healthy. Now that you’ve got the steps down, all that’s left to do is wear them with pride. Go slay girlie!
