Dreads or temporary dreadlock extensions? This is the first question to settle before your appointment. We make permanent dreads from your own hair. Dreadlock extensions are ready-made strands that we braid into your hair and that can be removed.
They may look similar, but they are two different decisions: different working times, different care and different ways of moving on from the style. Below, we compare what really sets the two approaches apart.
At a glance: what is the difference?
| Permanent dreads | Temporary dreadlock extensions | |
|---|---|---|
| What they are made from | your own hair | ready-made strands braided into your hair |
| How long you wear them | years, until you decide otherwise | usually a few weeks to two months |
| How you remove them | combing out or cutting | undoing the attachments and removing the set |
| Maintenance | root tightening every few months | reinstallation or adjusting individual sections |
| Colour | dyeing your own hair | choosing the set’s colour, without dyeing |
| Trying out the look | no, this is a longer-term decision | yes, this is often the starting point |
When permanent dreads are the better choice
If you know you want this hairstyle for years rather than a single season, dreads made from your own hair are a simpler option. You do not return every two months for installation or pay for more sets.
However, this approach has its requirements: your hair needs suitable length and condition, and you need to be prepared for the style to change during the first few months. We describe the appointment in our article about the first consultation, and the methods themselves in our article on how dreads are made.
When temporary dreadlock extensions are the better choice
Temporary dreadlocks make sense when you want to find out how you feel with this hairstyle, or want a particular colour without bleaching your own hair. They also work well for trips, festivals and a single season.
Another common reason is that permanent dreads are not yet a good idea: hair that is too short, weakened lengths or a scalp that needs attention first. We explain when it is worth waiting in our article on who dreads are not a good choice for.
Can temporary dreadlocks be a transitional stage?
Yes, and that is often how things develop. A temporary set shows you what wearing more volume feels like, how the style sits around your face and whether it is comfortable for working and sleeping. After removal, you return to your starting point and can then decide on a permanent change.
However, it does not work the other way round. Temporary dreadlock extensions do not turn into permanent dreads. If you want a permanent style after removing the set, we create it from scratch using your own hair.
What about weight and comfort?
The same thing matters with both options: how much weight the roots carry. A large, long set on fine hair can pull more than carefully made dreads from your own hair. We match the weight to your hair rather than an internet photo.
Your hairstyle should not hurt or dig in, whichever approach you choose. We describe symptoms worth taking seriously in our article on traction alopecia with dreads.
How much does it cost?
We charge by the hour for both options, so the cost depends on the work involved: the number of sections, length, material and whether one or two people are working. Installing temporary dreadlocks is usually a shorter appointment than creating dreads from scratch, but you return for reinstallation every few weeks.
You can find current rates in the price list, and we explain how to calculate the total over a year in our article on how much dreads cost.
Your questions
Do temporary dreadlock extensions damage hair more than dreads?
Neither has to damage your hair. Overly tight installation, excessive weight and neglected hygiene cause harm, and these can occur with either option.
Can I have a few permanent dreads alongside temporary dreadlock extensions?
Yes, partial styles are possible. We simply need to plan which areas stay loose so that maintenance and washing are manageable.
What should I choose if I have no idea?
We usually suggest starting with a temporary set or a few strands. A smaller decision and an easier return to your previous style.
Are wool dreadlocks a third option?
They are a type of temporary set, just made from a different material. We explain the details in our guide to wool dreadlock extensions.
Unsure which approach is right for you? Book a free consultation and bring photos of your hair and inspiration images. We will discuss both options for your own hair rather than somebody else’s.
