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Top 8 Best Oils for Dreads

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Written by Andrew Le, MD.
Medically reviewed by
Last updated June 5, 2024

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Dreadlocks are a special type of hairstyle that has a great look, however, they need proper care. A major factor of dreadlocks maintenance is moisturizing and nourishing the hair. It is here that the best oil for dreads comes in handy.

Dreadlock oil is essentially an oil that is meant for application on dreadlocks for the purpose of moisturizing and nourishing them in order to keep them in good condition. It is important to understand that there are many different types of oils that exist in the market with their own pros and cons.

In essence, the best oil for dreads is that one that will nourish the dreads as well as promote the health of the hair without contributing to product buildup. With various choices to select from, it is not simple to decide where to begin from.

Top 3 Best Oils for Dreads

  1. Lockology Peppermint and Tea Tree Loc Moisturizer
  2. Lion Locs Hair Growth Oil and Scalp Relaxer
  3. Lockology Lavender and Rosemary Loc Spray

As much as it may be interesting to have dreadlocks, it is also important to know that they require effort to be maintained. That is why we have provided you with a list of good oils for dreads to ensure that your dreads stay healthy. We have researched and tried different oils and know for sure that these products will be perfect for you dreads. That being said, let’s get straight to our list of recommendations.

Lockology Peppermint and Tea Tree Loc Moisturizer

The Editor's Choice

Revitalize your locs with Lockology's Peppermint and Tea Tree Loc Moisturizer. A unique blend of peppermint, green tea, and natural ingredients strengthens and promotes growth, relieving itching. Crafted in small USA batches with quality Caribbean extracts, this residue-free oil suits all hair types. Nourish your locs naturally.

See price on Amazon

If you are searching for an ideal natural oil for dreads that help to moisturize the locs and the scalp and helps prevent itchy feelings, then Lockology Peppermint and Tea Tree Loc Moisturizer is what you need.

Pros

  • Stimulates growth, reduces itching, and moisturizes and conditions your locs with a stimulating blend of peppermint, tea tree, rosemary, and other natural ingredients.
  • Build up and residue free dreadlock hair products that rinse from your locs easily.
  • Made in small batches in the USA using quality oils, herbs, and extracts from across the Caribbean.

Cons

  • The 4 oz bottle may seem small for the price.
  • May not be suitable for those with psoriasis or sensitive scalp.
  • The scent may be too strong for some.

Lockology Peppermint and Tea Tree Loc Moisturizer is an invigorating combination of peppermint, green tea with some other natural ingredients that assist in strengthening of locs as well as conditioning of the hair to support growth. It also nourishes your scalp and helps fight itchy feelings. The product does not build up nor does it leave residue on the hair and it washes out easily from the locs.

The traditional natural dreadlock hair product is prepared in small facililty in the USA by combining quality oils, herbs and extracts from Caribbean. The product is very useful because it provides natural oils for dreads that does not leave residues and is easily washed off.

It is a concoction of stimulating essential oils – peppermint, tea tree, rosemary among others and other natural ingredients which helps promote growth, relieves itchiness and moisturizes and conditions your locs. The product is a multi purpose and ideal for use for different hair types especially those who wanthealthy,green and growing locs with no itchy scalps.

Therefore, if you are searching for an all-natural oil for dreads that nourishes and soothes the scalp, preventing itchy sensations while caring for locs, Lockology Peppermint and Tea Tree Loc Moisturizer is exactly what you need. It is available in small batches from the USA and made from quality oils, herbs, and extracts sourced from the Caribbean, further, it is build up and residue-free.

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Lion Locs Hair Growth Oil and Scalp Relaxer is an excellent option for those who seek a light oil beneficial for hair growth and styling.

Pros

  • Made with natural ingredients that penetrate your hair and scalp for enhanced dreadlocks growth.
  • Perfect lightweight oil for loc styles that replenishes your locks and curls, prevents further breakage, and makes hair healthier and shinier.
  • Specifically made to help with any hairstyle or type, including microlocs, interlocks, dreadlocks, braidlocks, braids, faux locs, crochet locs, boho locs, twistlocks, or sisterlocks.

Cons

  • May not be suitable for those with oily hair.
  • Some users may find the smell too strong.
  • May require frequent application for best results.

Lion Locs Hair Growth Oil and Scalp Relaxer are products that we tried for a couple of weeks, and we can say that the hair improvement is noticeable. Our hair also feels smoother and seems to be in better condition, and it appears to be less brittle as well. On top of that, it is convenient to use and doesn’t stick to surfaces afterward.

This oil is comprised of natural ingredients and is perfect for those who wish to avoid using harsh chemicals. We also acknowledge that it is made from hand-picked natural ingredients that are imported from India to offer a high grade of oil.

All in all, we would be pleased to recommended Lion Locs Hair Growth Oil and Scalp Relaxer to anyone interested in hair growing and styling oil which is light to the hair.

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Lockology Lavender and Rosemary Loc Spray / Loc Oil / Dreadlocks Moisturizer is a good one for those who prefer the product of natural origin that would enhance locs and contribute to their growth.

Pros

  • All-natural ingredients with no chemicals
  • No build-up or residue
  • Tames frizz and holds flyaways in place longer

Cons

  • May not work for all hair types
  • May have a strong scent for some users
  • May require frequent reapplication

Among the things that stroke us was the quality of the ingredients used in this product. The ingredients – honey, lavender, and green tea extract – allow for a relaxed and gentle approach to the process of reinforcement and conditioning of locs. We also liked that it did not make the hair look oily and greasy though this is a common vice with many hair products.

What is rather noticeable regarding this product is that it provides longer control over the frizz and flyaways. This is particularly vital concerning those individuals with dark or course hair types. Nevertheless, it is important to mention that the product may not fit all head of hair types and may need to be reapplied multiple times a day.

In summary, we would recommend Lockology Lavender and Rosemary Loc Spray / Loc Oil / Dreadlocks Moisturizer to any person who seeks for a natural and efficient product to strengthen as well as condition their locs. That it tames the frizz and controls the fly aways for a longer amount of time is an added advantage, and most importantly the product does not build up or leave a residue behind as most of the hair products do.

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If you are looking for a healthy hair oil then we recommend the Lion Locs Rosewater Spray for Dreads.

Pros

  • Great for all hair types
  • Controls frizz
  • Made with 100% pure organic ingredients

Cons

  • Small bottle size
  • Spray component can be faulty
  • May not be moisturizing enough for extremely dry hair

This rosewater spray is ideal for anyone with microlocks, interlocks, dreadlocks, locks, braidlocks, braids fauxlocs twistlocks or sisterlocks. It also useful in taming of frizz and in closing of the exposed hair cuticle.

The spray contains rosewater and glycerin which aid in growing hair and preventing split ends. It also contains specific conditioning oils for the skin and hair to give dry hair new life, relieve a dry itchy scalp, and promote healthier loc growth and shine.

Sourced from India, this product does not contain any sulfate and other chemicals that are toxic to the hair and skin. However, the bottle size might be small for those that have mature or junior locs and the spray part may not be efficient as expected. However, the spray might not be sufficiently moisturizing for those with extremely dry hair.

In conclusion, Lion Locs Rosewater Spray for Dreads is among the best options for anyone looking for a healthy hair oil that is not greasy.

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Lockology Loc Moisturizer & Loc Oil Spray are ideal for all those who want to hydrate, restore, and moisturize their locs and scalp.

Pros

  • All natural and build-up free
  • Helps to strengthen and repair weak, damaged locs and dreads
  • Nourishes locs and scalp while reducing itching and dry scalp to promote loc growth and strength

Cons

  • The sprayer may need to be upgraded to make it come out better
  • The scent may not be strong enough for some users
  • The price may not be complemented by the size of the product

The Lockology Loc Moisturizer and Loc Oil Spray are a build-up free natural product. It assists in the cheap repair of damaged locs and dreads which have been weakened due to several factors. The product conditions locs and scalp, relieves itchiness, and dry scalp thus encouraging loc growth and improvement in its solidity.

The only issue we discovered is that the sprayer may require an upgrade to make it come out better. Some of the users may also experience low scent intensity of the product which may not suit their preferences. Also, the price element may not be supported by the size of the product being sold in the market.

In general, we can conclude that Lockology Loc Moisturizer and Loc Oil Spray are worth the investment for those in search of natural products for their locs and dry scalp.

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For a natural dreadlock loc oil, gentle on the scalp and hair without leaving an oiled feel, we highly recommend Rastta Locs Super 7 Growth oil.

Pros

  • The handpicked oils in this formulation provide the scalp with the necessary nutrients to encourage healthy hair growth.
  • The essential oils in this growth oil help to reduce itchiness and support hair growth in all stages.
  • The scent of this oil is amazing and it works great on all hair types.

Cons

  • The bottle is only 4 fluid ounces, which may not be enough for those with long or thick hair.
  • The scent may be too strong for those who are sensitive to fragrances.
  • The price point is a bit high compared to other hair oils on the market.

Among the products that we have utilized is Rastta Locs Super 7 Growth oil and can confirm that it helped in growing hair and dealing with itchiness. It consists of 100% pure and organic carrier oils and essential oils that are known to help in strengthening of hair roots on the scalp.

The aromatic of this oil is tropical mint which has a fresh and energizing smell. One thing we seriously appreciate is it does not stick on the scalp and hair like most hair oils do.

In conclusion, we fully endorse Rastta Locs Super 7 Growth oil for anybody in need of a good hair oil that will moisturize the scalp and assist with growth of healthy hair.

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Lockology HIM Loc Oil Spray and Hair Oil For Men is indeed a perfect natural and build-up-free oil for those long dreadlocks.

Pros

  • Locks in moisture and promotes hair growth
  • Conditions the scalp and relieves itching
  • Made with natural ingredients and free of build-up and residue

Cons

  • May not work for all hair types
  • Some users reported a strong scent
  • A bit pricey compared to other dreadlock oils

It has been approximately weeks since we started using Lockology HIM Loc Oil Spray and Hair Oil For Men and the results are quite impressive. Our hair feels less dry and there is reduced itchiness on our scalp after the application. It’s very handy as an oil and it does not form any residue or any buildup on the hair when used.

This is one of the best oils because the ingredients used in making it are natural and include sandalwood and castor oil. We also like the fact that this product is made in small batches in America, and therefore, it has to be of high quality.

Although we had good experience using the oil, there are other users who complained it was worthless on their hair. To these, some complained of a strong odor that they could not tolerate. Last but not least, the price of the product is a few dollars higher than other dreadlock oils out there.

In summary, if you are searching for a natural and build-up-free oil for your dreads, Lockology HIM Loc Oil Spray and Hair Oil For Men definitely meet your expectations.

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If you are searching for a natural and effective oil to use for your dreadlocks, then Avocado & Castor Oil Nourishing Softening Loc Oil is the best one.

Pros

  • The blend of natural oils deeply moisturizes dry hair and hydrates the scalp.
  • Hibiscus extract strengthens the hair and stimulates its growth.
  • The essential oils of lavender, juniper berries, cedar wood, and spearmint help to purify and refresh the scalp.

Cons

  • The oil may feel heavy for those with fine hair.
  • The scent may not be appealing to everyone.
  • The bottle may leak if not stored properly.

We appreciate the fact that this oil does not contain any parabens, sulfates, or silicones and is 100% natural. It is also not tested on animals and is free from animal-derived ingredients, which will be suitable for the segregated consumers. The combination of avocado and castor oils is ideal for getting the best results in moisturizing the hard and dry dreads as well as the scalp. Hibiscus extract is used for hair strengthening and stimulating growth while lavender, juniper berries, cedar wood, and spearmint are used in essential oils for detangling and purifying the scalp.

When we tried this oil on our dreads, they became more supple, robust, and glowing with health. It may cause some discomforts to those with fine hair since the oil is heavy The smell may also be off putting to some individuals. Further, the bottle when not well stored may spill and this leads to more mess. In conclusion, Avocado & Castor Oil Nourishing Softening Loc Oil for afro hair or very dry dreads is an excellent product for natural and effective nourishment of the hair and scalp.

Buying Guide

There are several factors you have to consider to determine the best oil for dreads. It is crucial that the chosen product is effective without compromising its safety and ease of use to the consumers.

Firstly, one common and most crucial factor to consider is the ingredients. Select oils that have a natural basis and do not contain chemicals or synthetic additives such as synthetic fragrances. Some examples of the oils are tea tree, lavender, and peppermint since they have the ability to fight microbes and reduce itching.

Another aspect to consider is the homogeneity of the oil. Ideally, you need a style that is not heavy on your hair and does not make the dreads feel oily or saturated. It’s advisable to try a little portion of the oil on your fingers and then massage it onto your skin. If it goes in fast and does not leave any residue, then it might just be perfect for your dreads.

Another thing that should be taken into consideration is the packaging of the oil. When choosing the oil look for that product that comes in a black glass bottle since this will help in retaining the quality of the oil as it has been shielded from light. Furthermore, it is recommendable to use a bottle with a dropper or pump dispenser for easy and accurate application of the oil throughout the dreads.

Lastly, examine the price range of the oil to identify the best option for the consumer. It is good to acquire the best product but you shouldn’t spend much of your money. Be specific in terms of what is affordable and what offers the best value for your money.

In conclusion, selecting the proper oil for your dreads is all about doing your homework and thinking about what’s important to you. When searching for a product, always consider using natural ingredients, lighter texture, dark glass bottle, affordable price range that meets your needs and assist in maintaining healthy dreads.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of using castor oil on dreadlocks?

Castor oil on its own is an extraordinary emollient which aids in maintaining the softness of the dreads. It can also help stop some scalp infections and dandruff because it contains antifungal and antibacterial agents.

Which essential oils are best for maintaining healthy dreadlocks?

Some of the oils that can be used for dreadlocks include tea tree oil, lavender oil, and rosemary oil. The tea tree oil has antifungal and antibacterial effects that may protect the scalp from infections, and the effects of lavender and rosemary oils are stimulating the growth of hair.

Can argan oil help to prevent dreadlocks from drying out?

Yes, argan oil is a good natural moisturizer that would go a long way in ensuring that dreads do not dry up. It contains vitamins and antioxidants that help in moisture replenishing of the hair and scalp, it also helps to lock out frizz and add sheen.

What are the advantages of using coconut oil on dreadlocks?

Coconut oil is an excellent natural conditioner which aids in ensuring that the dreadlocks are not stiff but are rather smooth. It also has the ability to be antimicrobial, which is important in fighting off infections and dandruff on the scalp.

Is almond oil a good option for nourishing dreadlocks?

Yes, Almond oil is an excellent natural moisturizer that would enhance the nourishment of Dreadlocks hair. It is endowed with minerals which are vital in hair growth, it is also good in preventing hair breakage and formation of split ends.

How does avocado oil promote healthy growth of dreadlocks?

Some of the nutrient contents of avocado oil include vitamin and minerals that are vital for hair growth and to prevent hair loss. It also plays a role in hydrating and preserving the scalp, decreasing the possibilities of dandruff and other illnesses.

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Jeff brings to Buoy over 20 years of clinical experience as a physician assistant in urgent care and internal medicine. He also has extensive experience in healthcare administration, most recently as developer and director of an urgent care center. While completing his doctorate in Health Sciences at A.T. Still University, Jeff studied population health, healthcare systems, and evidence-based medi...
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