Dreadlocks have been celebrated for centuries, symbolizing culture, spirituality, and personal style.
With their unique appeal and versatility, dreadlocks remain a popular choice among men looking to make a bold style statement.
Whether you prefer short locks, long dreads, or an intricate design, there’s a dreadlock hairstyle to suit every personality and look.
Here’s a breakdown of the 15 best dreadlock hairstyles for men, each offering a unique twist to this timeless style.
1. Classic Long Dreads – Dreadlock Hairstyles for Men
Long locs are a timeless choice for men who want to keep it simple yet bold. With the ability to style them in various ways—tying them back, letting them fall naturally, or styling them into a ponytail—long dreads are versatile and make a powerful statement. This style allows for length and thickness to vary, giving the wearer options for personal expression.
2. High Top Dreads
High top dreads offer a trendy look by shaving the sides while keeping dreadlocks on the top. This style, inspired by the classic high-top fade, gives a clean and edgy appearance, perfect for those who want a manageable yet stylish approach to dreadlocks. It’s ideal for men who want a low-maintenance option with a fresh look.
3. Short Locs
Short dreadlocks offer a subtle, understated look while maintaining the essence of dreadlocks. They’re easy to maintain, quicker to style, and are great for men who prefer a minimalist style. Short dreads can be styled with a fade, taper, or left natural, offering versatility without the commitment of long locs.
4. Braided Dreads
Braiding dreadlocks is a creative way to add texture and style to traditional dreads. This style combines the thickness of dreads with the intricacy of braids, resulting in a look that’s unique and eye-catching. Braided dreads can be achieved by interweaving individual locks, adding an element of style and keeping the dreadlocks out of the face.
5. Dread Mohawk
The dread mohawk merges the rebellious energy of a mohawk with the cultural significance of dreadlocks. This style involves shaving the sides of the head, leaving a line of dreads running from the front to the back. It’s bold, edgy, and ideal for those looking to make a statement with a bit of attitude.
6. Freeform Locs – Dreadlock Hairstyles for Men
Freeform dreads are created naturally without much manipulation, letting the hair lock and twist on its own. This method is great for those who want to embrace a natural, organic look. Freeform dreads reflect individuality and are low-maintenance, as they require minimal styling.
7. Temple Fade with Dreads
A temple fade with dreads combines a clean fade along the temples with dreadlocks on the top. This style adds a modern twist to traditional dreadlocks, creating a sharp contrast between the shaved and dreadlocked areas. It’s a fashionable choice for men who want a polished yet contemporary look.
8. Dread Bun
A dread bun is both stylish and functional, ideal for men with medium to long dreads. Simply gathering the dreads into a high or low bun keeps the hair out of the face while adding a sophisticated touch. This look is great for formal occasions or days when you need a quick, effortless style.
9. Colored Dreads
Adding color to dreadlocks is a fun way to express individuality. From bright, bold colors to subtle highlights, coloring dreads can elevate your style, adding dimension and vibrancy. This look is particularly popular among men who want to stand out or experiment with a unique look.
10. Skin Fade with Dreads
For a sharp, modern look, combine dreads with a skin fade, which gradually tapers down to the skin. This style is especially popular among younger men and offers a polished appearance while retaining the dreadlocked top. A skin fade adds dimension and depth, making it a sleek choice for those looking for a fresh style.
11. Half-Up, Half-Down Dreads
The half-up, half-down style is a versatile choice for medium to long dreadlocks, allowing for the top half of the dreads to be pulled back while the rest is left down. This style is casual, easy to manage, and gives a balanced look that’s ideal for all occasions, from casual to formal.
12. Twist and Curl Dreads
Twist and curl dreads offer a textured, curly look by twisting the dreadlocks and setting them into curls. This style is visually appealing and adds volume, creating a more dynamic look. Twist and curl dreads are perfect for men who want a fresh take on the classic dreadlock style.
13. Undercut with Dreads
The undercut with dreads combines the edgy look of an undercut with the unique texture of dreads. Shaving the sides or back emphasizes the length and thickness of the dreadlocks on top, giving a bold, modern look. This style works well for men who want a high-contrast, stylish appearance.
14. Cornrow Dreads
Cornrow dreads involve styling dreadlocks into tight cornrow braids along the scalp. This look is sleek, structured, and brings a sophisticated, cultural element to traditional dreadlocks. Cornrow dreads require regular maintenance but are ideal for those looking for a clean and stylish appearance.
15. Two-Strand Twist Dreads
The two-strand twist involves twisting two dreadlocks together to create a thicker, rope-like texture. This style offers a unique look with added volume and can be worn short or long. Two-strand twist dreads add definition to your hairstyle and are great for men who want a bold yet structured look.
Maintenance Tips for Dreadlock Hairstyles
To keep your dreads looking sharp and well-maintained, follow these essential care tips:
- Wash Regularly: Washing dreads every 1–2 weeks helps maintain cleanliness without loosening the locks.
- Use Residue-Free Shampoo: Choose a shampoo free of residue to prevent build-up and promote healthy growth.
- Moisturize: Dreadlocks can become dry, so it’s important to keep them moisturized with oils like jojoba or coconut oil.
- Retwist or Maintain: Regularly retwisting or maintaining your dreadlocks helps prevent frizz and keeps your style neat.
- Protect While Sleeping: Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction, or wrap your dreadlocks with a silk scarf to avoid frizz and damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I get dreadlocks with short hair?
Yes, dreadlocks can be started with as little as 2 inches of hair. Short dreads look stylish and can be maintained as they grow.
2. How often should I wash my dreadlocks?
Washing every 1–2 weeks is recommended to keep the scalp healthy and prevent product buildup without loosening the dreads.
3. Are dreadlocks high maintenance?
Dreadlocks require some maintenance, particularly for the first few months, but regular washing, moisturizing, and retwisting help keep them manageable.
4. How long do dreadlocks take to form?
The process varies based on hair type and texture, but it generally takes about 6 to 12 months for dreadlocks to fully mature.
5. Can I color my dreadlocks?
Yes, coloring dreadlocks is common, but be sure to use products safe for dreads and follow up with conditioning treatments to maintain hair health.
6. How do I choose the best dreadlock style for my face shape?
For round faces, high-top or updo styles add length. Men with square or angular faces can pull off tighter styles like temple fades, while oval faces suit most dreadlock styles.
Conclusion – Dreadlock Hairstyles for Men
Dreadlocks offer a world of options for men who want to showcase their unique style and cultural heritage.
Do you want more black men’s hairstyle Ideas? Check these out!
From high-top fades to freeform, each dreadlock hairstyle has its own flair, allowing you to find the perfect look that suits your personality.
Whichever style you choose, remember that proper maintenance is key to keeping your locs healthy and looking great.
Tasos Moulios is the founder of Beardlong. He loves trying different beard and hair styles and blogs about them. The tips he shares come from his own experience and love for what he does.