We have thorough experience with dreadlock extensions in ALL hair types!
Get perfect dreadlocks from day one without worrying about string or products or any crazy maintenance routines. With our dreadlock extension services all you need is a few inches of hair and we’ll cover the rest no matter what your hair type is!
Dreadlock Central brings very detailed information on locs. I recently got starter locs at the salon. The salon told me for my next appointment that I must receive a curling treatment, which I was skeptical of. I made an appointment with Dreadlock Central and after they completed my locs, I was convinced that salons have no idea that they're lacking information. I thought my journey began at the salon, but figured out a month later that it began with Dreadlock Central. My Spanish hair is locking quite well. I recommend to the fullest.
Best experience I've had so far with maintenance of my dreadlocks. Colby is full of knowledge and experience which is why he is the best in the business hands down. The method he uses is the most efficient for maintaining healthy and neat dreadlocks. I greatly appreciate the time and effort he put into helping my dreadlocks get to where they should be. I HIGHLY recommend making an appointment with Dreadlock Central.
Excellent work done by Carlee! I was a little nervous but once she got to work I knew she had things under control! She was very nice & friendly to work with, she came to me, was a fast worker & very professional! I would definitely recommend this company to work on your dreadlocks!
Caucasian Dreadlock Extensions

Afro Dreadlock Extensions

Hispanic Dreadlock Extensions

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Dreadlock Extensions Portfolio
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What Kind of Dreadlock Extensions do I need?
There are many different types of dreadlock extensions to choose from. This section will inform you of the different types of extensions and exactly which one is right for you.

In most cases we recommend 100% Human Hair for it’s longevity, affordability, and natural look. This option suits the majority of our clients needs very well.
Some clients prefer a more affordable option in which case we recommend high quality synthetic hair for it’s low price and realistic look. The main downside of synthetic extensions is that it has a shorter lifespan.
In other cases, especially for clients who intend to dye their dreadlocks AFTER their installation, we recommend Virgin Hair for it’s dye-ability and realistic qualities. However, we recommend getting your color straightened out BEFORE your installation. Dying dreadlocks is generally discouraged (we will be writing a post on this topic in the future).
For temporary and colorful options we recommend wool dreadlocks. However, we do not install these types of extensions as a permanent solution but rather as a tied-in temporary option. This can also be a DIY option since you just need a friend who can properly tie string (just avoid suffocating your dreadlocks).
To learn more about a specific type of extension please select a tab that you’re most interested in.
100% Human Hair
100% Human Hair is hair that is cut from a human head and then processed to look or act a certain way. The processing typically involves stripping the hair of its cuticle, dying, and coating with silicone. This allows the hair to be “more manageable” but is much more difficult to dye as a result. Therefore, dying this hair is not recommended, especially color #1 (jet black). 100% Human Hair is perfectly acceptable for dreadlock extensions and our preferred choice in most cases.
PROS
- More affordable than Virgin Hair
- Higher quality than synthetic hair in most cases
- Great for permanent or semi-permanent attachment
- Lasts longer than synthetic hair for dreadlocks (typically 2-3 years for straight hair and 5+ years for afro hair)
- Zero maintenance after installation
CONS
- It’s processed and not completely natural
- Should not be dyed, especially Color 1 (Jet Black)
- Contributing to questionably bad ethics in the hair industry
OUR OPINION
Virgin and Virgin Remy Human Hair
Remy and Virgin Remy Human Hair is hair that is cut straight from a human head and is completely unprocessed. Virgin means that it’s unprocessed, and Remy means that all the cuticles are running in the same direction. It is by far the highest quality hair on the market because it is completely natural and untouched hair.
PROS
- Great for a permanent solution
- Closest to human hair
- Can be dyed just like your real hair
- No processing – cut straight from a human head and shipped to you
- Long lasting for dreadlock extensions – 2-3 years for straight hair – 5+ years for afro hair
- Will lighten and fade exactly as your natural hair would in the sun which keeps an extremely natural look
- Zero maintenance after installation
CONS
- Very Expensive
- Harder to get your hands on
- Remy Hair tends to be very difficult to create dreadlock extensions with for Afro hair
- Contributing to questionably bad ethics in the hair industry
OUR OPINION
Although Virgin Remy hair is the highest quality hair on the market, that doesn’t mean it’s the best choice for your dreadlocks. We actually prefer Human Hair over Virgin Remy Hair in most cases. The biggest reason we would recommend Virgin hair is if you are adamant about dying your dreadlocks AFTER installation.
Quality Synthetic Dreadlock Extensions
Synthetic hair is made of fine plastic fibers that resemble human hair. Low quality synthetic hair tends to look unnatural and fake, whereas high quality synthetic hair can look so natural that no one will be able to tell the difference.
PROS
- Most affordable option
- Huge Color Selection
It’s vegan friendly - Good synthetics will look like real hair
- Won’t have to deal with any fuzziness
- Great for short term and colorful options
- Does not contribute to questionably bad ethics in the hair industry
CONS
- It’s not real hair
- Less durable – will last 1-2 years
- Cheap synthetics look harsh and fake
- Can sometimes be dyed darker, but not lighter
- Cannot use hair dye, must use specific fabric or cream color dye
OUR OPINION
Synthetic hair isn’t as bad as many people think, at least not with dreadlocks. Much of the problem with Synethic Hair is that it can’t easily be styled when worn as normal hair. Once it’s formed into dreadlocks however, the styling issue goes out the window. With that being said, synthetic hair has become much more advanced in recent years to the point that high quality synthetic hair can be indistinguishable from real human hair! It’s a perfectly suitable option for dreadlocks extensions.
Wool and Nylon Dreadlock Extensions
Wool dreadlock extensions are typically very, very colorful and unrealistic looking. They tend to be the “cartoony” version of dreadlocks. On the other hand Nylon dreadlocks are made of synthetic fibers that are very low quality. Nylon dreadlocks also have a very fake look to them. These two options are typically for decoration to your current dreadlocks or to be tied into your hair as temporary dreadlocks.
PROS
- Very affordable
- Perfect for short term use
- Extremely colorful and creative
- Can be tied in by yourself or a friend
- Great for experimenting with the idea of dreadlocks
CONS
- Not a permanent solution
- Does not resemble real hair or real dreadlocks
- Maintenance and upkeep every 2-3 months as your hair grows out
OUR OPINION
If you’re looking for a permanent solution wool is certainly not your answer. We can install your wool extensions with string however we do not crochet wool dreadlock extensions permanently the same way we do with the other extension types listed above. We also do not crochet Nylon dreadlock extensions because the material simply stretches out with our method.
How many dreadlock extensions do I need?
The amount of dreadlocks you’ll need will vary based on the size of the dreadlocks you want and the thickness of your hair.
The thicker your hair is the more dreadlocks end up with and the thinner your hair is the fewer amount of dreadlocks you’ll end up with.
Additionally, the thicker in diameter you want your dreadlocks to be the fewer number and the thinner you want them to be the larger the number.
Many people misjudge this number so we included the three photos in this section for reference. Each one of these clients have slightly thicker hair resulting in a slightly larger number of dreadlocks than someone would have with an average or medium hair density.
40-50 Dreadlocks

50-70 Dreadlocks

70-100 Dreadlocks

Frequently Asked Questions
You probably have a few questions that you didn’t even know you should be asking. Please read through the questions in this section and select whichever ones may apply to you.
How much do dreadlock extensions cost?
The cost of dreadlock extensions vary depending on many factors. Pricing often takes into consideration a range of variables including type, quality, length, amount, thickness, color, etc. There’s no easy way to answer this question, but you should generally be expecting to pay around $300-800 for dreadlock extensions and a separate cost of $300-600 for the installation. Every vendor and every stylist varies, so you’ll have to contact stylists and vendors to determine specific pricing for your needs.
What are the pros and cons of dreadlock extensions?
Pros
- Instant Satisfaction
- Good Length without the wait
- Can perfectly match your hair
- Pick whichever style suites you best
- Can be installed in any hair type
Cons
- It’s fake
- Costs more than a standard installation
- Human Hair Extension collection is often viewed as unethical
What is the maintenance for dreadlock Extensions?
Maintenance methods will vary depending on the method of installation. With the dreadlock crochet method, which is what we use exclusively, there is no maintenance for your extensions other than your standard new growth maintenance that comes along with all dreadlocks!
How long do dreadock extensions last?
Dreadlock Extensions can last anywhere from several months to several years or even being fully permanent depending on the method of installation and hair type. With the crochet method, Kinky Afro hair types tend to be fully permanent, whereas Straighter hair types last around 1-2 years with Synthetic Hair and 2-3 years or longer with Human Hair.
How many dreadlock extensions do I need?
The amount of dreadlock extensions you’ll need varies based on several factors including diameter of the dreadlock, your hair cut, and the thickness of your hair. For Kinky Afro hair types the amount of dreadlocks can range from 40 to 60 extensions for thick and medium dreadlocks and 80 to 120 extensions for skinny dreadlocks. For Straighter hair types the average is typically between 40 and 50 extensions for a full head and sometimes 60-70 extensions for skinny dreadlocks or very thick hair types.
Can I dye my dreadlock extensions?
Dying dreadlock extensions depends on the type of hair used to create the extensions in the first place. Certain Human Hair Extensions are heavily processed and pre-dyed which makes them very difficult to dye later on whereas Virgin hair is unprocessed and is fully dyeable. Synthetic hair should not be dyed with hair color, but is sometimes dyable with fabric dyes.
Can you wash dreadlock extensions?
In most cases, yes, you can wash your dreadlock extensions like your normal dreadlocks. Your stylist will be able to give you an answer that is specific to your method. With the crochet method we certainly encourage you to wash your dreadlocks and extensions which will help tighten and strengthen your dreadlocks.
Can Dreadlock Extensions fall out?
Yes, it is possible for Dreadlock Extensions to fall out. Dread Extensions can fall out for a variety of reasons but the most common reasons are due to poor installation methods and/or they’ve just reached the end of their lifespan and have weakened over time. This is to be expected around the three year mark for straighter hair dreadlock extensions.
Are dreadlock extensions removable?
Dreadlock Extensions can be removable depending on the installation method. If you’re looking for a temporary or easily removable option with your extensions you’ll want them to be tied in with string so that the string can simply be cut to remove the extensions.
Are dreadlock extensions bad for your hair?
Dreadlock extensions can be damaging to your hair only if you decide to comb them out of your hair after they’re installed. Dreadlock Extensions are typically no more damaging to your hair than having normal dreadlocks.
Are dreadlock extensions permanent?
Dreadlock Extensions range from temporary to “semi-permanent” to fully permanent. The age of dreadlock extensions vary based on the type of hair that is used to create the extension and also the texture of your natural hair. Temporary dreadlocks are typically tied in with string whereas semi-permanent and permanent dreadlock extension services are typically crocheted in. With Kinky Afro hair it is typically fully permanent with our method and straighter hair extensions are “semi-permanent” lasting around 2-3 years with human hair.
Can I just get partial dreadlock extensions installed?
Yes, absolutely! Just let us know when you fill out the form.
How long does my hair have to be for dreadlock extensions?
Your hair should typically 3-5 inches for the installation of dreadlock extensions. For small diameter dreadlocks (pencil size) 3 inches is sufficient. For large diameter dreadlocks (sharpie size or bigger) 5 inches is preferred. The minimum length required depends on the size of the section, the thickness of your hair, and your hair type.
Where can I buy good dreadlock extensions online?
We make our own Kinky Afro Human Hair Loc Extensions which you can custom order a personalized set here! For straight hair we do not offer custom extensions as a service but we highly recommend ordering your Straight Hair Dreadlock Extensions from either DreadsUK or Dreadscapes on Etsy.
What’s the difference between single ended and double ended dreadlock extensions?
Double ended dreadlocks are solely intended to tie into your dreadlocks or hair on a removable and temporary basis. Single ended dreadlocks range from looped ends, to clips, to frayed open ends, and more. With single ended dread extensions that have loops you have the option of tying them in a temporary fashion or you can cut the loops and fray out the ends to install them permanently. Frayed single ended dreadlock extensions are solely intended to be used with a permanent attachment.
What’s the difference between Synthetic, Human Hair, Virgin, Remy, and Wool dreadlock extensions?
The short answer: Human Hair, Virgin Hair, and Remy Hair are all cut from a real person’s head. “Human Hair” is processed and chemically altered to perform a certain way or to be a certain color. “Virgin” hair is is completely natural and unprocessed and “Remy” means that all the cuticles of the hair are going in the same direction which makes it the most natural hair. Synthetic hair is made from synthetic fibers which range from realistic to plastic looking depending on the quality. Wool dreadlock extensions are typically very colorful and unrealistic, they are typically used temporarily to adorn your current dreadlocks.
How noticeable is the attached area between my real hair and each dreadlock extension?
If your hair color and texture matches the hair used for the extensions it will be virtually seamless. And even if your hair doesn’t match perfectly it’s still very difficult to notice the attachment in most cases. In some straighter hair types it’s not uncommon to have a slightly thicker section where the connection is made, but it’s only noticeable if you’re seeking it out.

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