Dread hairstyles for men are bold, stylish, and deeply rooted in culture. They’re not just about growing your hair—they’re about expressing your personality. From tight, neat locs to wild, freeform dreads, every style has its own unique appeal.
This article covers 12 must-try dread hairstyles for men, along with expert advice on maintenance, styling, and choosing the best locs for your hair type.
You’ll also find solutions to common dreadlock problems and tips on accessorizing your dreads for the perfect look.
Here are the top 12 dread hairstyles for men that will keep your style sharp:
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1. Classic Long Dreadlocks
Classic long dreadlocks are a timeless choice for men who love a bold, masculine look. Achieve this style by sectioning hair and using the twist-and-rip method or backcombing for tight, uniform dreads.
Locking gels and residue-free shampoo keep dreads neat. Pair these with boho streetwear—think relaxed-fit jeans and vintage tees. This style suits oval and square faces, complementing thicker hair textures.
Celebrities like Bob Marley made this look iconic. Perfect for casual and formal settings, it aligns with laid-back, vintage aesthetics. Keep dreads moisturised with natural oils for shine and health.
2. High Top Fade Dreads
For a trendy, modern twist, high-top fade dreads combine sharp fades with bold, textured dreadlocks. Achieve this with palm rolling and a skin fade or taper cut. Use matte pomade for an edgy, well-groomed finish.
This look suits round and heart-shaped faces, and pairs well with streetwear, such as oversized hoodies and sneakers. Celebrities like Lil Uzi Vert and Playboi Carti rock this style.
This dread style, paired with a fade, is perfect for fashion-forward men who love street style and hip-hop aesthetics. Maintain it with scalp treatments and locking creams. DIY with a twist sponge and frequent retwisting.
3. Short Tapered Dreads
Short tapered dreads are a neat, low-maintenance style for professional and casual settings. Use interlocking to create defined dreads, and pair them with a low taper fade for structure. This short dreads style for guys fits diamond and oval face shapes and works best with coarse or thick hair.
A textured beard or stubble enhances the masculine appeal. Wear it with tailored streetwear—fitted joggers and sneakers. Inspired by J. Cole, this style blends with minimalist and urban aesthetics.
Maintain it with hydrating oils and weekly scalp massages. This is an ideal short dread style for black guys on the go as it offers a clean, confident look.
4. Freeform Dreads
Freeform dreads embrace a natural, artistic vibe with minimal manipulation. Achieve this by letting your hair lock and tangle naturally, washing with residue-free shampoo and using scalp oils.
Perfect for square and oblong faces, this style exudes effortless confidence. Pair it with earthy, bohemian outfits for an organic aesthetic. Inspired by artists like Jay-Z and The Weeknd, freeform dreads suit laid-back, creative personalities.
Best for thick and coily hair textures, they require moisturising sprays for softness. This look embodies raw masculinity and cultural heritage, making it a timeless classic.
5. Two-Strand Twists with Dreads
Two-strand twists with dreads blend structure and movement. Achieve this by twisting two dreadlocks together using mousse or twist gel for hold. Best for round and oval faces, this style enhances medium to long dreads.
Pair this long dreads style for guys with monochrome streetwear—slim-fit jeans and a puffer jacket. Inspired by Travis Scott, it suits hip-hop and urban aesthetics.
Maintain with hydrating sprays and twisting butter. It’s great for everyday wear or music festivals, offering a fresh, youthful energy. DIY with a comb and natural wax, ensuring clean parting for a polished finish.
6. Mohawk Dreads
Mohawk dreads are a bold, edgy style that blends punk rock with streetwear aesthetics. Achieve this by shaving the sides and styling the central dreads with backcombing and crochet techniques. Use matte pomade for a rugged, structured finish.
Best for oval and square faces, this look pairs well with leather jackets and ripped jeans. Inspired by Lenny Kravitz, it suits fashion-forward, rebellious men.
Maintain it with scalp oils and moisturising sprays. This style stands out in concerts and street-style settings, making it perfect for rock lovers and hip-hop fans alike.
7. Undercut Dreads
Undercut dreads bring a sharp, high-contrast appeal by combining clean-shaven sides with bold dreads on top. Achieve this by crochet locking for a defined texture. Best for diamond and round face shapes, this style enhances medium to thick hair textures.
Pair it with tailored suits for a professional look or relaxed joggers for casual settings. Inspired by Malcolm Bivens, it balances modern minimalism with masculine ruggedness.
Maintain with hydrating sprays and scalp oils. DIY by using a sponge brush for twist definition. Ideal for business-casual men who want a stylish yet structured hairstyle.
8. Blonde-Dyed Dreads
Blonde-dyed dreads add a bold, fashion-forward twist to traditional dreadlocks. Achieve this by bleaching the tips or going full platinum using semi-permanent hair dyes. Best for round and oval face shapes, this style suits thicker hair textures.
Inspired by Dennis Rodman and Wiz Khalifa, it’s perfect for trendsetters and risk-takers. Pair with colourful urban outfits—hoodies, sneakers, and statement jewellery.
Maintain colour vibrancy with colour-protecting shampoos and deep-conditioning masks. A must-have for streetwear lovers and artistic personalities, this look blends with modern, edgy aesthetics and is ideal for parties and festivals.
9. Wick Dreads
Wick dreads are thick, statement-making locs popularized by Kodak Black. Achieve them using the rubber band method or crochet technique. Best for square and oblong faces, wick dreads complement thicker hair textures.
This style pairs well with oversized streetwear and bold accessories like gold chains. A cultural staple in Florida hip-hop fashion, it blends gritty masculinity with street aesthetics.
Maintain scalp hydration and locking gels to keep the dreads structured. Ideal for guys who love a dominant, unapologetic look, wick dreads make an instant statement wherever you go.
10. Dread Bun with Fade
For a refined yet edgy appeal, a dread bun with a fade is a versatile, stylish option. Achieve it by retwisting dreads and securing them into a high or low bun, paired with a taper fade. Best for oval and heart-shaped faces, it works with medium to long dreads.
Inspired by ASAP Rocky, this style blends with urban-chic fashion—think tailored joggers and designer sneakers.
Maintain with moisturizing gels and silk wraps to prevent frizz. Perfect for business meetings, date nights, and everyday wear, this style offers a sleek yet effortlessly cool aesthetic.
11. Twisted Rope Dreads
Twisted rope dreads give a sculpted, artistic touch to traditional locs. Achieve this by twisting two or more dreads together with styling wax for extra hold. Best for oval and round face shapes, they complement medium to thick hair textures.
Inspired by Travis Scott, this style blends with grunge, hip-hop, and streetwear. Pair with baggy jeans, graphic tees, and layered jewellery.
Maintain with locking mousse and essential oils. A festival-ready style, twisted rope dreads are perfect for men who want a fresh yet manageable look with an artistic vibe.
12. Dreads with Beads and Accessories
Dreads with beads bring a cultural and stylish aesthetic, inspired by Afro-Caribbean heritage. Achieve this by decorating dreads with wooden, metal, or crystal beads. Works best for medium to long dreads and complements square and oblong faces.
This style pairs well with earth-tone outfits and bohemian streetwear. Celebrities like Bob Marley and Burna Boy have embraced this look.
Maintain by oiling the scalp and keeping beads securely placed. Perfect for summer music festivals or vacation vibes, it’s a timeless, expressive hairstyle that blends history with modern fashion.
Dreadlock Maintenance Routine
Keeping your dreads fresh isn’t just about looks—it’s about healthy hair and scalp care. Follow this simple maintenance routine:
- Wash your locs with a residue-free shampoo every 1-2 weeks (less for dry hair, more for oily scalps).
- Retwist every 4-6 weeks using locking gels or aloe vera to keep your roots neat.
- Moisturize with jojoba, coconut, or argan oil to prevent dryness and breakage.
- To avoid lint and buildup, sleep with a silk wrap and do an apple cider vinegar rinse every few months.
With the right routine, your dreads will stay clean, strong, and looking sharp!
Best Hair Types for Dreads
Not all hair locks the same way, so choosing the right technique based on your hair type makes a huge difference. Coarse and kinky hair naturally forms dreads with minimal effort, while straight or wavy hair needs extra work like backcombing or crochet hooking.
Thick hair creates full, voluminous dreads, while thin hair results in smaller, lighter locs that may need extra reinforcement.
No matter your hair type, the key is patience, the right method, and proper maintenance. With the right approach, you’ll achieve strong, stylish dreads that suit your hair’s natural texture.
Styling and Accessorizing Dreads
Styling and accessorizing your dreads lets you express your personality while keeping your look fresh. For an effortless everyday style, try the half-up, half-down look, balancing casual and put-together vibes.
A dread bun is perfect for workouts or formal settings, while side-swept locs frame your face stylishly. Accessories like beads and rings add a cultural or fashion-forward touch, while headbands and wraps protect your dreads and enhance your style.
For securing locs, rubber bands work best for sectioning, while clips hold styles in place. Whether you keep it simple or bold, these styling tricks help your dreads stand out effortlessly.
Common Dreadlock Problems & Solutions
Dreadlocks look amazing, but they come with challenges if not cared for properly. Thinning dreads often happen from over-retwisting or dryness, so keep your scalp moisturized with jojoba or castor oil and avoid excessive manipulation.
Frizz and loose hair can be tamed with light palm rolling and residue-free locking gels. If you struggle with dandruff or an itchy scalp, hydrate with tea tree or peppermint oil and use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo.
To prevent dread rot and mildew, always dry your dreads fully after washing—a blow dryer or sun drying helps. With proper care, your locs stay strong and fresh!
Conclusion
Dread hairstyles let you express your unique style while keeping your look bold and confident. With the right care and creativity, your dreads will always stand out. Personally, I love the side-swept locs and dread bun for their effortless versatility!
Frequently Asked Questions
- How Long Does It Take to Grow Dreadlocks?
Dreadlocks go through phases—starter dreads take 3-6 months, while fully matured locs develop in 1-2 years, depending on hair type, maintenance, and locking method. Patience and proper care speed up the process.
- Can You Undo Dreadlocks Without Cutting?
Yes, but it takes time and effort. Use deep conditioners, oils, and detangling combs to gradually loosen the knots. The process can take hours or even days, depending on how mature your dreads are.
- Do Dreads Damage Hair?
No, if maintained properly. Over-retwisting, neglecting moisture, or using harsh products can weaken hair. Regular hydration, gentle styling, and scalp care keep dreads healthy and strong.
- Are Dreadlocks or Locs Better?
“Dreadlocks” and “locs” refer to the same style, but “locs” is the preferred term due to its positive cultural significance. Both require the same care, styling, and maintenance routine.
- How Long Do Locs Last for Men?
With proper care, locs can last a lifetime. Regular washing, moisturizing, and minimal manipulation keep them healthy. If maintained well, they continue to grow, mature, and look better over time.
