Thick Dreadlocks: Expert Tips for Starting, Growing & Maintaining Full Locs

When people talk about thick dreadlocks, they usually picture bold, rope-like strands that stand out for their strength and fullness. Thick locs aren’t just about size — they reflect a certain style, personality, and even lifestyle. Some choose them for the dramatic look, while others appreciate how fewer, larger locs can be easier to manage compared to a high number of thinner ones.

From a style perspective, thick dreadlocks are eye-catching. They carry a sense of power, maturity, and individuality. But they also require a different level of maintenance than thin locs. The way you wash them, dry them, and even the way you style them has to be adapted to handle the extra weight and density.

In this guide, you’ll find expert-backed advice and real-world experience on what it takes to start, grow, and maintain thick dreadlocks. We’ll explore everything from the science behind loc thickness to practical tips for styling, troubleshooting, and keeping them healthy long-term. If you’re curious about how to get thicker dreadlocks — or how to care for the ones you already have — this article will walk you through the journey with clear, trustworthy insights.

2. Understanding Dreadlock Thickness

2.1 What Determines Thickness?

The thickness of dreadlocks isn’t random — it’s shaped by a mix of natural hair traits and choices you make at the start.

• Hair density: If you have more follicles per square inch, your sections naturally pack in more hair, which leads to thicker locs.
• Strand size: Individual hair strands can be fine, medium, or coarse. Coarse hair strands naturally build fuller locs over time.
• Section size: The size of each part you create at the root is one of the biggest factors. Larger sections equal thicker dreadlocks, while smaller ones create thinner locs.

2.2 Do Dreadlocks Thicken Over Time?

Yes — most locs go through natural changes as they mature. In the early months, locs may look slim or uneven. As they lock and swell, they gain thickness. Some may thin out in areas (a process called “necking”), while others may even fuse together, creating naturally larger locs. This is why patience is key; your locs don’t stay the same size as the day they start.

From experience, many people are surprised when their medium locs swell into much thicker ropes after a year or two. Others notice unevenness, where some locs grow bulkier while a few remain slimmer. Both are normal parts of the loc journey.

2.3 The Role of Sectioning and Parting

How you start your locs also shapes their final look.

• Square parts are neat and common, but can sometimes cause visible scalp lines.
• Bricklay parts stagger the sections so the scalp looks fuller, and they often give thick locs a more natural appearance.
• Freeform locs don’t rely on planned sections, so the hair naturally combines into thicker, less uniform locs.

A common mistake is making sections that are too big without considering hair density. While this creates very thick locs, they may become heavy and harder to maintain over time. On the other hand, sections that are too small might lead to thinner locs that don’t match the “thick dreadlocks” look you want.

3. Planning for Thick Dreadlocks

3.1 Assessing Your Hair and Goals

Before you start your dreadlock journey, take time to evaluate your natural hair. Your hair’s density, strand size, and length will all influence how thick your locs can become. For example, someone with fine hair may need larger sections or extensions to achieve the thick look, while someone with coarse, dense hair will naturally end up with fuller locs.

You should also decide what type of loc journey fits your lifestyle:

• Freeform locs give the most natural, often thicker look but require patience and less control.
• Semi-freeform locs offer a balance between fullness and maintenance.
• Maintained locs allow you to shape thickness more intentionally, though they may take more effort at the start.

3.2 Sectioning Strategies

Your parting pattern sets the foundation for thickness. Here are some general guidelines:

• Medium locs: Sections about the size of a pencil eraser
• Thick locs: Sections closer to the size of a dime or nickel
• Very thick locs: Even larger sections, sometimes called “cane shaft” or “monster locs”

Parting styles matter too:

• Grid pattern: Neat and even, good for uniform locs
• Bricklay pattern: Helps locs fall naturally and look fuller
• Organic pattern: Less structured, often chosen for a natural, thick look

3.3 Best Starting Methods for Thick Locs

Different starting techniques can influence how your locs develop:

• Freeform/Neglect: Allows natural fusion, usually resulting in thick, uneven locs.
• Palm Rolling: A common method that encourages steady growth and uniformity, though it takes time.
• Crochet Hook: Instantly creates locs with tight, dense thickness, making it a great option if you want fuller dreadlocks from the start.
• Interlocking: Secures the roots, helping maintain thickness and preventing unraveling, but may make the locs feel firmer.
• Backcombing: Creates quick locs but may not hold thickness well on fine hair unless combined with crochet maintenance.

💡 Pro Tip (from experience): A combination of larger sections + crochet method to start + light palm rolling over time gives a strong base for thick dreadlocks without becoming unmanageable.

3.4 Early Care for Thickness

The first months are crucial for building a strong foundation:

• Moisture: Keep hair hydrated, but avoid over-conditioning that can loosen new locs.
• Protein Balance: Strengthen strands without making them brittle.
• Scalp Care: Healthy roots grow strong, thick locs. Gentle oiling, balanced washing, and avoiding heavy buildup all help.
• Lifestyle Commitment: Thick locs require patience. They don’t reach their full look overnight — you’ll need consistency and care.

4. How to Make Dreadlocks Thicker Over Time

4.1 Maintenance Methods

Once your locs are started, regular care plays a big role in how thick they’ll become.

• Palm Rolling: Done gently after washing, this helps locs keep their shape and encourages bulk. Overdoing it, however, can cause thinning, so balance is key.
• Crochet Hooking: A reliable way to pull in loose strands and build density. It also prevents locs from looking hollow or frizzy.
• Retwisting/Interlocking: Both methods can strengthen roots and keep new growth from separating. When done carefully and not too often, they also support thickness by reducing weak spots.

4.2 Thickening Techniques

Sometimes locs need a little extra help to achieve that full look.

• Combining Locs (Fusing): If you start with small sections, two or more locs can be combined into one thicker dread. This is often done with a crochet hook to keep them neat.
• Using Hair Fillers or Extensions: Adding human hair or extension fibers can instantly thicken locs. This is helpful if your natural hair is fine but you want a fuller appearance.
• Root Thickening: Allowing your roots to freeform while keeping the mid-length maintained lets new growth naturally merge and increase thickness at the base.

4.3 Preventing Thinning

Thinning is one of the biggest challenges with thick dreadlocks, especially because each loc carries more weight. To keep them strong:

• Avoid overtwisting or twisting too tightly, which weakens strands.
• Don’t overload hair with heavy products — buildup can make locs weaker instead of thicker.
• Pay attention to scalp strain; if your locs feel heavy or pull at the roots, try different styling techniques to ease tension.

Seasonal care matters too. In winter, dry air can make hair brittle, so focus on moisture. In summer, humidity and sweat can cause buildup, so cleansing becomes a priority.

4.4 Growth-Friendly Practices

Healthy locs come from healthy habits.

• Detox Rinses: An apple cider vinegar or clay cleanse every few months removes buildup and allows locs to breathe, which helps them swell naturally.
• Moisture + Protein Balance: Check your locs regularly. If they feel dry and brittle, they need hydration. If they feel weak and limp, they may need protein.
• Trimming Ends: Cutting off frayed or damaged tips reduces breakage and keeps thickness consistent along the length.

💡 Expert Insight: In my experience, people who keep a balanced routine — light hydration, occasional detox, and gentle maintenance — often see their locs gain natural bulk within the first 1–2 years. Those who over-manipulate usually struggle with thinning instead.

5. Styling Thick Dreadlocks

5.1 Hairstyles for Men and Women

Thick dreadlocks open up a wide range of styling possibilities, but comfort and weight need to be considered.

• Long Thick Dreadlocks: These look powerful and dramatic. Popular styles include high buns, half-up ponytails, and wraps that keep the weight balanced.
• Medium-Length Thick Locs: Shoulder-length or bob-style locs are easier to manage and can be styled into layered looks, updos, or casual loose styles.
• For Men: Thick dreadlocks paired with fades, undercuts, or braided sections can create clean, stylish contrasts.
• For Women: Thick loc buns, braided crowns, and decorative beads or wraps add a bold yet elegant look.

5.2 Extensions and Enhancements

Not everyone’s natural hair can achieve maximum thickness on its own, and that’s okay. Extensions are a common solution.

• Human Hair Extensions: Blend seamlessly with natural locs, offering both volume and a natural look.
• Synthetic Extensions: More affordable but slightly heavier and less breathable.
• Methods: Crochet-in, sew-in, or wrap-in techniques can all be used to add bulk.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re adding extensions, match their thickness to your natural loc size. Overly large extensions can strain your roots, while too-thin ones won’t blend well with thicker locs.

5.3 Comfort and Manageability

Thick dreadlocks can feel heavy, especially as they grow longer. A few key things make them easier to manage:

• Loc Count: Having fewer, thicker locs means each one carries more weight. Around 30–60 thick locs is common, while 100+ locs are usually thinner.
• Scalp Balance: Distribute weight evenly with protective styles to avoid stress on specific areas.
• Face Shape & Head Size: Very thick locs can overwhelm smaller head shapes. Strategic styling (like tying back or layering) helps keep the look balanced.

5.4 Long-Term Styling Tips

Maintaining both the health and beauty of thick dreadlocks means being mindful of how you style them:

• Protective Updos: Loose buns, twists, and braids help prevent daily friction.
• Night Protection: A silk or satin scarf reduces dryness and frizz while you sleep.
• Avoid Tight Styles: Consistently pulling locs too tightly can cause thinning at the roots.
• Rest Periods: Allowing your locs to hang free for a week or more helps them “rest” and relieves tension.

💡 Experience Note: I’ve seen clients with extremely thick locs who styled them tightly every day. Within a year, the constant pulling led to thinning around the hairline. Once they switched to looser protective styles, their roots recovered and the thickness stayed intact.

6. Common Problems and Solutions with Thick Dreadlocks

6.1 Why Locs Aren’t Thickening

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your dreadlocks may not look as full as you’d like. Common causes include:

• Sections too small: Thin parts create thin locs from the start.
• Over-maintenance: Excessive retwisting or crocheting can compress locs instead of letting them swell naturally.
• Product Buildup: Heavy waxes, gels, or conditioners can weigh locs down and stop them from expanding.

Solution: Reassess your sectioning, reduce manipulation, and cleanse with a detox rinse to reset your locs.

6.2 Thinning and “Necking”

“Necking” happens when a loc becomes thinner in one spot, usually in the middle. Causes include:

• Tension from tight styles
• Breakage from dryness
• Weak points where hair didn’t lock fully

Solution:

• Strengthen thinning areas by crocheting in loose hair.
• Combine weak locs with neighboring ones if needed.
• Keep roots healthy with balanced moisture and nutrition.

💡 From experience: I once worked with a client who had a thin spot in the middle of a very thick loc. By crocheting in new hair and reducing retwist frequency, the loc regained its strength within a few months.

6.3 Mold and Buildup in Thick Locs

Because thick locs take longer to dry, they’re more prone to mold and mildew — also known as “loc rot.” Signs include unpleasant odors, grayish buildup, or an unusually heavy feel.

Prevention:

• Always dry locs thoroughly after washing — use a towel wrap, air drying, and occasionally a hooded dryer.
• Avoid heavy creams that trap moisture inside.
• Wash consistently to prevent buildup.

Treatment:

• Apple cider vinegar (ACV) or clay rinses can cleanse mold.
• In severe cases, partial unraveling and reconstruction may be needed.

6.4 When Locs Become Too Thick

Thick dreadlocks are beautiful, but sometimes they can become overly bulky or heavy. Signs include:

• Constant scalp strain
• Difficulty styling or tying back
• Locs merging into massive “wicks” that are hard to manage

Solution:

• Split overly thick locs into two smaller ones.
• Trim length to reduce weight.
• Work with a loctician to reshape without losing too much volume.

💡 Expert note: Bigger isn’t always better. The goal is healthy, manageable locs that fit your lifestyle — not just the thickest size possible.

7. Advanced and Expert Tips for Thick Dreadlocks

7.1 Texture-Specific Advice

Not all hair behaves the same when locking, and thickness will vary depending on texture:

• Coarse hair: Naturally builds fuller, denser locs, often with less effort.
• Fine hair: May need larger sections or crochet reinforcement to achieve thickness without thinning.
• Curly or kinky hair: Tends to form thicker locs more easily since the coils interlock faster.
• Straight hair: Requires more manipulation (backcombing, crochet, or interlocking) to create and maintain thickness.

💡 Pro insight: Clients with fine, straight hair often succeed with crochet locs combined with larger section sizes, while those with coarse 4C hair usually don’t need much intervention — their locs thicken naturally with time.

7.2 Long-Term Evolution of Thick Locs

Thick dreadlocks change as they mature:

• Year 1–2: Swelling and uneven shapes are normal.
• Year 3–5: Locs settle, taper at ends, and gain density in the middle.
• Year 5+: Many locs merge or develop “cane shaft” thickness, becoming heavy but stable.

Rather than resisting these changes, many seasoned dreadheads embrace the natural evolution as part of the journey.

7.3 Naming and Culture of Thick Locs

Thick dreadlocks often carry cultural or descriptive names, including:

• Cane shaft locs – cylindrical, thick, rope-like.
• Monster locs / pipe locs – extremely thick, dramatic locs.
• Wicks – especially large sections fused together, popular in some regions.

Search trends often include:

• thick dreadlocks male
• thick dreadlocks styles for ladies
• thick dreadlocks extensions
• long thick dreadlocks
• medium thick locs styles

Using these terms naturally in your dreadlock journey connects you with the wider loc community and culture.

7.4 Lifestyle and Mindset

Thick dreadlocks aren’t just a hairstyle — they’re a lifestyle choice. They require patience, adaptability, and long-term commitment.

• Patience: Locs don’t reach their final thickness overnight.
• Commitment: Proper washing, drying, and styling are essential to prevent damage.
• Balance: Healthy scalp care and realistic expectations keep the journey enjoyable.

💡 Real-world story: One of my clients spent five years nurturing her thick locs with consistent routines — light oils, seasonal detox, and minimal twisting. Her locs became cane-thick yet stayed strong and breakage-free, showing how discipline pays off in the long run.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

8.1 What are the thick dreadlocks called?

Thick dreadlocks often go by names like cane shaft locs, monster locs, pipe locs, or wicks. The exact term can vary by region and culture, but all describe dreadlocks that are much larger than average in circumference.

8.2 Is it good to have thick dreadlocks?

It depends on your goals and lifestyle.

• Pros: Bold, powerful look; fewer locs to maintain; strong presence.
• Cons: Heavier weight, longer drying times, possible scalp strain, and fewer options for smaller intricate styles.
  For many people, the benefits outweigh the challenges, as long as proper care is in place.

8.3 Is 100 dreadlocks a lot?

Yes, in most cases. A full head with 100+ locs usually means thinner sections. For thick dreadlocks, people often have far fewer — sometimes between 30 and 60. The number itself isn’t “good” or “bad,” it just reflects the chosen thickness and density.

8.4 How do dreadlocks get thick?

Dreadlocks thicken through:

• Natural maturation as locs swell and lock tighter
• Larger starting sections
• Healthy scalp and hair care
• Low manipulation, allowing locs to expand naturally
• Optional methods like combining locs or adding extensions

8.5 How to make dreadlocks thicker?

If your locs are thinner than you’d like, here are some safe approaches:

• Combine smaller locs into thicker ones
• Use crochet techniques to pull in loose hairs and build density
• Let roots freeform for a while to naturally bulk up
• Avoid over-maintenance and product buildup that compress locs
• Consider extensions for instant thickness

💡 Expert note: The key is patience. True thickness comes with time, care, and consistency, not overnight shortcuts.

9. Conclusion

Thick dreadlocks are more than just a hairstyle — they’re a commitment to patience, care, and self-expression. From the way you section your hair at the start to how you maintain and style it years later, every choice shapes how your locs grow and feel. With the right balance of scalp care, proper maintenance, and realistic expectations, thick locs can become both strong and beautiful.

At the end of the day, the journey matters as much as the result. Whether you’re just starting out or already growing your locs, remember that thickness takes time. Treat your hair kindly, listen to your scalp, and allow your dreadlocks to evolve naturally — and you’ll be rewarded with a look that’s bold, authentic, and uniquely yours.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional hair care advice. Everyone’s hair type and scalp health are unique, so results may vary. For personalized guidance, consult a qualified loctician or hair care professional before making significant changes to your hair routine.