When you think about hair that really stands out, high top dreads often come to mind. It's a look that has a certain feel to it, a blend of classic and quite modern, you know? This particular style takes the idea of dreadlocks and gives them a lift, literally. It’s about having those beautiful, unique locs concentrated on the upper part of your head, making them extend upward in a way that truly catches the eye.

The name "high top dreads" really tells you what it's all about. Think about the word "high" itself. As we often understand it, high means something that is rising or extends upward a good distance, perhaps taller than what you might usually see. It's about having a relatively great elevation, so to speak, rather like a cabinet ten feet high, or looking down from a high window. That sense of being far above a base, or reaching to a height, is what gives this dread style its name.

So, when we talk about high top dreads, we are pretty much describing a hairstyle that is physically elevated. It means your locs are situated far above the ground, or your neck, creating a distinct look that reaches upward. This style gives a large distance from the bottom of your hair to the top of your dreads, which is quite a statement, wouldn't you say? It's a look that feels both classic and very much of today, for many people.

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Table of Contents

• Understanding the High Top Dread Look
  • What Makes Them High Top?
  • Why People Choose This Style
• Starting Your High Top Dreads
  • Getting the Initial Cut
  • Methods for Starting Locs
  • Patience is a Friend
• Keeping Your High Top Dreads Looking Good
  • Washing and Drying
  • Moisture and Oil
  • Retwisting and Maintenance
  • Protecting Your Locs
• Styling Your High Top Dreads
  • Simple and Straightforward Looks
  • Adding Flair and Personality
  • Combining with Fades
• Common Questions About High Top Dreads
• The Growing Appeal of High Top Dreads

Understanding the High Top Dread Look

High top dreads are, in a way, a very clear statement. They are a style where the dreadlocks themselves are focused on the upper part of the head, leaving the sides and back often cut short or faded. This creates a distinct contrast, making the dreads appear even more elevated and prominent. It's a look that has really taken hold, you know, with a lot of people.

What Makes Them High Top?

The "high" in high top dreads really refers to that elevation. It's about the dreads being situated far above the lower parts of the head. This gives the style a noticeable height and a very clean outline. It’s not about having dreads all over your head, but rather having them concentrated in a section that stands tall, almost like a crown. This emphasis on height, as we see from the meaning of "high," is what makes this style quite special. It’s like a high jump in a way, very focused on that upward movement.

This design makes the dreads appear to extend upward a great distance, which is exactly what the word "high" often means. They are, in a sense, taller than average for a full head of dreads, because the sides are kept short. This creates a striking visual, where the dreads are physically elevated, extending above the base of your hairline on the sides and back. It is a very deliberate choice, you see, to have that specific placement.

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Why People Choose This Style

People pick high top dreads for many good reasons. For one thing, it's a look that offers a lot of style without having dreads everywhere. This can feel lighter, and for some, it is also a bit easier to manage, since there is less hair to worry about overall. It also gives a really neat, put-together appearance, especially with a sharp fade on the sides. It’s a clean look, pretty much.

Another reason is the ability to show off the dreads themselves. Because they are elevated, they become the main focus, sort of. This allows the texture and unique shape of each loc to really stand out. It’s a way to express yourself, and honestly, it looks good on a lot of different people, which is quite nice.

Starting Your High Top Dreads

Starting high top dreads is a bit of a process, as you might guess, but it’s very much worth it for many. It begins with the right kind of hair cut, and then moves into the actual dreading process. It does take some patience, too, which is just part of the journey.

Getting the Initial Cut

Before you even think about dreading, you need the right base haircut. This usually means getting a fresh fade or a clean, short cut on the sides and back of your head. The top section of your hair, where your dreads will live, needs to be left long enough to start the locs. It’s important to tell your barber exactly what you are going for, you know, so they can get it just right.

A good barber will know how to shape the top section so it blends well with the shorter sides, but also keeps enough length for your dreads to form properly. This initial cut sets the stage for everything else, so it’s pretty important to get it done well. You want that clear distinction between the "high" part and the shorter sides, so it's a very specific kind of cut.

Methods for Starting Locs

There are several ways to start your high top dreads, and which one you choose might depend on your hair type and what you prefer. One common method is comb coils, where small sections of hair are twisted with a comb until they form coils. This works well for shorter hair on top, actually.

Another way is two-strand twists, where two sections of hair are twisted around each other. This can create a bit more texture from the start. You can also do braids, which are just small braids that eventually loc up. Each method has its own feel and look as the dreads begin to mature, so it's good to look into them, you know, and see what might suit you best.

Patience is a Friend

No matter how you start them, growing dreads, especially high top dreads, takes time. Your hair needs to mature and lock up properly, which can take several months, or even longer for some. It’s a bit of a waiting game, but a very rewarding one. During this time, you will need to keep up with regular maintenance to help your locs form well and stay healthy. It is a process, after all.

You might go through what people call the "budding" phase, where your locs start to feel a bit stiff and look less uniform. This is totally normal, as a matter of fact, and it means your hair is doing what it needs to do to become true dreads. Just keep at it, and you will see the results, very much so.

Keeping Your High Top Dreads Looking Good

Once you have your high top dreads, keeping them looking their best is pretty straightforward, but it does require some regular care. Good maintenance helps them stay neat, healthy, and looking sharp. It’s not a lot of work, but it is consistent work, you know.

Washing and Drying

Washing your dreads is important for keeping them clean, just like any other hair. You should use a residue-free shampoo that won't leave buildup in your locs. Buildup can make dreads look dull and feel heavy, and nobody wants that. When you wash, really focus on getting your scalp clean, too.

Drying your dreads completely is also very important. Wet dreads can start to smell not so great, or even develop mildew, which is something you definitely want to avoid. You can pat them dry with a towel, and then let them air dry completely, or use a blow dryer on a cool setting. Make sure they are totally dry before you tie them up or go to bed, as a matter of fact.

Moisture and Oil

Dreadlocks can get dry, so keeping them moisturized is a good idea. You can use a light oil, like jojoba oil or argan oil, or a dreadlock-specific moisturizer. Just put a little bit on your locs and scalp to keep things feeling good and looking healthy. Too much oil can make them heavy, so a little goes a long way, you know.

A healthy scalp is also pretty important for healthy dreads. If your scalp is dry or itchy, it can affect your hair's overall health. So, remember to give your scalp some attention when you are moisturizing your locs. It helps a lot, truly.

Retwisting and Maintenance

To keep your high top dreads looking neat and to help them lock up properly, you will need to get them retwisted every so often. This is where a professional, or someone skilled, will twist the new growth at the roots of your dreads. This helps to maintain the shape and keep them looking tidy.

How often you retwist depends on how fast your hair grows and how neat you want your locs to look. Some people go every few weeks, others wait a month or two. Over-retwisting can put stress on your roots, so it’s something to be mindful of. It’s all about finding that right balance for your hair, basically.

Protecting Your Locs

Protecting your high top dreads while you sleep is a good habit to get into. Wearing a satin or silk bonnet or durag can help prevent frizz and lint from getting into your locs. It also helps to keep them moisturized and prevents them from drying out overnight. This small step can make a pretty big difference in how your dreads look each day, you know.

Also, try to avoid putting too much stress on your locs, especially when they are still young. Tight styles or pulling on them too much can cause breakage or thinning at the roots. Treat them gently, and they will look good for a long time, very much so.

Styling Your High Top Dreads

One of the best things about high top dreads is how many ways you can style them. Because they are concentrated on the top, they offer a lot of flexibility for different looks, whether you want something simple or something more elaborate. It’s pretty much up to you.

Simple and Straightforward Looks

For a daily look, you can just let your high top dreads hang free. This shows off their length and texture, and it’s super easy. You can also tie them back in a ponytail or a bun, especially if they are getting longer. This keeps them out of your face and gives a neat appearance, which is quite practical.

Another simple option is to just let them fall naturally. The way they extend upward, as the word "high" suggests, means they already have a lot of presence. This natural flow can be very appealing, and it requires very little effort, too. It’s a classic look, really.

Adding Flair and Personality

If you want to add a bit more personality, you can try different ways to braid or twist your high top dreads. You can do a single braid down the middle, or create smaller braids that feed into a larger one. Some people like to add beads or wraps to their locs for a bit of extra something, you know.

You can also experiment with different partings. A side part can give a different feel than a middle part, for example. The beauty of high top dreads is that the "high" section is very versatile, allowing for many creative expressions. It’s a canvas, pretty much.

Combining with Fades

The combination of high top dreads with a fresh fade on the sides is a really popular look. The fade can be low, mid, or high, depending on what you like. A sharp fade creates a clean line that makes the elevated dreads stand out even more. It’s a very modern touch, too.

You can also play with different designs in the faded areas. Your barber can create lines or patterns that add an extra layer of style to your overall look. This really brings the whole thing together, making your high top dreads feel even more personal and unique. It is a good way to customize, honestly.

Common Questions About High Top Dreads

People often have questions about high top dreads, which is understandable given how unique they are. Here are a few common ones, as a matter of fact.

Can high top dreads be grown from short hair?

Yes, you can pretty much start high top dreads from relatively short hair, especially on the top section. You just need enough length for your chosen starting method, like comb coils or two-strand twists. The sides and back will be cut short, so it’s all about that top part. It will take time for them to grow out and mature, but it is very much possible.

How long do high top dreads take to fully mature?

The time it takes for high top dreads to fully mature can really vary from person to person. It depends on your hair type, how fast your hair grows, and how well you care for them. Generally, it can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months for them to feel truly solid and locked. It’s a process that needs patience, you know, and consistent care.

Are high top dreads hard to maintain?

High top dreads are not necessarily hard to maintain, but they do require regular care. This includes washing them properly, keeping them moisturized, and getting regular retwists to manage new growth. The shorter sides and back might need more frequent trims to keep them looking sharp. So, it’s about routine, pretty much, rather than being difficult.

The Growing Appeal of High Top Dreads

High top dreads continue to be a really popular choice for many people looking for a distinct and stylish hair look. Their ability to combine the traditional feel of dreadlocks with a modern, clean cut makes them very appealing. They are a way to express yourself, and honestly, they just look good. This style, which truly emphasizes elevation, as we understand the word "high," remains a strong choice for those who want their hair to stand out, you know, and make a statement. Learn more about high top dreads on our site, and find more hair care advice on HairCare Hub.