Dreadlocks can be dated back hundreds of years, but it’s only in the 1980s that it reached major mainstream popularity. It is then that Bob Marley was heading the music scene sporting the style, as was iconic artist Jean-Michel Basquiat and legendary actress Whoopi Goldberg. Celebrities like Lenny Kravitz and Lauren Hill ensured they remained popular throughout the 90s, and today, we can thank superstars like Zendaya, Jay-Z and Rihanna for keeping them in the limelight.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
Despite their worldwide popularity, dreadlocks are still widely associated with Jamaica and the rest of the Caribbean islands. But while the idea of island living might make you think it’s a relaxed hairstyle that doesn’t require any maintenance, that’s not quite the case for dreadlocks. Great-looking, healthy dreadlocks do not just happen; they’re the product of a great hair care regime and lots of TLC!
One of the most common concerns of the hairstyle is an itching scalp. Dreadlock wearers often develop dry scalps, and if not moisturised regularly, it can lead to plenty of discomfort, itchiness and flakiness. To keep your scalp and dreads looking and feeling their best it is important to invest in good quality haircare products that nourish and moisturise both hair and scalp.
When dreadlocks are not thoroughly moisturised they can become dry and brittle, and therefore prone to easy breakage which leads to balding. The most effective way to combat this is by regularly using an oil, ensuring enough moisture gets into your scalp and each strand of hair.
Why your dreadlocks deserve castor oil
Of all the different types of oils on the market (and trust us, there are many!), black castor oil proves itself again and again to be the very best option for dreadlocks. Let’s go through the checklist of why:
-
- Castor oil is rich in vitamins B, C and E, as well as omega fatty acids. This means it will wrap each strand of hair with moisture and highly beneficial when applied to the scalp too. It is not just moisturising, but nourishing. We love a multi-functional oil!
-
- It is known to help stimulate hair growth, making it the perfect option for those who want longer and thicker hair.
-
- Rich in ricinoleic acid, a known strong antibacterial and anti-fungal agent, castor oil can help protect the hair and skin from infection. This means hygiene and hair health will be maintained.
Dreadlocks aren’t high maintenance, but like all protective hairstyles, they require a little bit of time and effort to look and feel their best. Incorporating a great quality castor oil into your regime will ensure your dreads and scalp stay moisturised and healthy, allowing you to rock your style with confidence.
What castor oil product to purchase
Jamaican Mango & Lime have a top-selling Original Black Castor Oil (R155 at Clicks) that is an all-purpose soothing oil for both skin and hair. Made with grounded Jamaican castor beans and boiled to perfection, it softens and moisturises, nourishes and protects. It is also a fast absorbing formula, locking in moisture and sheen that will bring life back to dull dreadlocks. And if that wasn’t enough it has been known for promoting hair growth too.
View this post on Instagram
In need of a deep treatment for your hair and scalp? Try the intensely conditioning Jamaican Mango and Lime Xtra Dark (R155 at Clicks). It is considered an ‘extra-strength’ version of the Original Black Castor Oil, offering intense moisture to combat flaky scalp and brittle hair in need of TLC.
The Jamaican Mango & Lime Black Castor Oil Coconut (R100 at Clicks) is a power duo that marries the powers of castor oil with the incredibly hydrating properties of coconut oil. It can be used as a treatment for damaged hair and is also suitable as a moisture boost for healthy hair. Did you know that coconut oil can also be used to treat irritation? As a natural fat it has soothing properties often used to calm an irritated scalp and treat flakiness. Plus it smells like a tropical vacation in a bottle! The sweet sent of coconut oil makes this Jamaican Mango & Lime product a joy to use.
Jamaican Mango & Lime Black Castor Oils can be applied daily. Simply apply to the scalp and hair, then gently massage. All Jamaican Mango & Lime oils are unrefined and natural.
Jamaican Mango & Lime products are sold at Clicks, Dis-Chem, Pick n Pay, Takealot, Cosmetic Connection , and everyshop stores.
ALSO SEE: