Dreads and braids are two very popular hairstyles. However, people often confuse these two hairstyle forms and lump them together. Despite their similar appearance, dreads and braids are very different. If you've ever wondered what the difference between braids and dreads is and which style suits you better, you're in luck. In today's blog, we will tell you which is better, dreads or braids. Read on to learn more!
What Are Braids?
The origins of braids can be dated back 5,000 years to 3,500 B.C. in African cultures. Africans have been braiding their hair for centuries. Among many African tribes, braided hairstyles are a distinctive way to identify each tribe. Braid patterns and styles indicate a person's tribe, age, marital status, wealth, power, and religious beliefs.
A braid is a protective hairstyle that is a complex hairstyle of three or more interwoven strands of hair. Sometimes people add weaves to their braids to make them longer and fuller. The most common braided hairstyles are box braids, cornrow braids, micro braids, and so on.
The Benefits And Drawback Of Braids
After learning What braids are, let’s look at their advantages and disadvantages.
The Advantages Of Braids
1. Protective style
Braids are one of the protective hairstyles, perfect for those who want to shield nature hair from damage. Braids help prevent hair breakage as their own natural hair is wrapped up, which can reduce friction on the hair and protection from environmental factors.
2. Diversity
Braids contain a variety of types, such as cornrows, goddess braids, Ghanaian braids, braided ponytails, crochet braids, and more. You can choose the one that suits you according to your preference and style. Of course, if you want to show your unique charm, you can add some accessories to your braids.
3. Long-lasting
The long duration is also one of the advantages of braids. Braids usually last a month or two, and in some cases can even extend to four months, enabling you to give your hair a break.
4. Low maintenance
Braids are low maintenance. When your hair is braided, it lasts for weeks without much maintenance. Therefore, it is a very convenient hairstyle for busy people.
The Disadvantages Of Braids
As the saying goes, every coin has two sides. After understanding the advantages of braids, let's take a look at their disadvantages.
1. Can cause damage to the scalp and hair
To make braids last longer, you can tie them extra tight, which can put pressure on the hairline and cause severe damage and breakage of the hair follicles, resulting in a receding hairline. In addition, it can result in scalp redness and swelling, hair breakage, etc.
2. May be very expensive
You may need to add some hair weave if you want to make your hair look fuller, which may make braiding a little more expensive.
What Are Dreads?
Dreads, also known as dreadlocks and reggae heads, is a hairstyle in which the hair is twisted like a twisted rope. Black people are the most representative users of this style and it has become a symbol of reggae music culture.
The Merits And Demerits Of Dreads
After understanding what dreads are, let's look at their pros and cons.
The Pros Of Dreads
1. No need to worry about hair knots
You don't worry about knots in your hair when you have dreads. You don't need to tearfully and painfully comb through it. You will even enjoy the knots more because it will be easier to form locks.
2. Low maintenance
Dreads are virtually maintenance-free. For one thing, you won't need to wash your hair as often. For another thing, over time, you can build up your hair's stamina, which means you can keep it longer without washing it.
3. Durability
Dreads are tight tangles of hair so they are less prone to breakage and damage. And they last a long time without much maintenance.
The Cons Of Dreads
After understanding the pros of dreads, let's take a look at their cons.
1. Difficult to wash
Washing braids can also be challenging. Because braids are tightly wound, it can be difficult to get hair washed particularly clean, which can lead to buildup and dandruff and can even give off an unpleasant smell that can be unpleasant.
2. Difficult to remove
Dreads are difficult to remove. You may need to carefully untangle each braid when you don't need them, which can be time-consuming and potentially damaging to your hair. Worse, sometimes you may need to have your hair cut.
3. Time-consuming
You may need more time to have dreadlocks than braids. Because you need to wait a while for them to grow longer if you have short hair so you can have dreads.
What Are the Difference Between Braids And Dreads?
Next, let's look at the differences between dreads and braids.
| Category | Braids | Dreads |
| Installation Method | Section hair and weave into braids using hands or tools like a latch hook. | Separate hair into sections and twist or mat until it locks naturally or with tools. |
| Time Required | 4–8 hours depending on complexity and length. | 12–48 hours for full dreads or a few hours for starter locs. |
| Maintenance | Retighten every 4–6 weeks; wash and oil regularly. | Re-twist roots every 6–8 weeks; wash carefully and moisturize often. |
Dreads Or Braids, Which One Is Better?
It is difficult to answer which is better, braids or dreads. Because they each have their own strengths and weaknesses. More importantly, everyone has different styles and preferences, so everyone's choice will be different. Choose the right one for you according to your needs. What suits you is the best.
Read More: Twists vs Braids, What Works Best for You
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Dreads And Braids Last?
Braids reinforced with hair extensions can last up to 8 weeks, while woven natural hair may last a few weeks. Unwinding braids is usually easy - just untangle them from end to end. However, dreads are semi-permanent or permanent, which means you can wear them for months or even years.
How Much Do Braids And Dreads Cost?
The cost of completing braids or dreads varies. Dreads cost approximately $48 to $200, and can even cost up to $1,400 if you choose a dread extension. Depending on the size and style of the braid, your braid appointment can cost around $75 to $450.
Are Braids or Dreads Better for Hair Growth?
Both can support hair growth when installed and cared for correctly. Braids protect your ends, while dreads keep strands compact and less prone to breakage.
Which Style Is More Protective for Natural Hair?
Braids are usually gentler on the scalp. Dreads are also protective but require proper maintenance to avoid buildup or tension.
Do Braids or Dreads Look Better With Human Hair Extensions?
Braids blend beautifully with straight, wavy, and kinky extensions. Dreads match perfectly with textured, kinky human hair extensions.
