Playboi Carti Dreads: Evolution, Styles, Colors & How to Get the Look (2016–2025)

Playboi Carti has always been more than just a rapper — he’s a style icon who reshaped how fans see hair and fashion in hip-hop. Among his bold choices, his dreads stand out as one of the most defining parts of his image. They’ve become more than just a hairstyle; they represent creativity, individuality, and a trend that many people want to follow.

In this guide, you’ll discover everything about playboi carti dreads — from the way he first started twisting his hair back in 2016, to the eye-catching red and blonde phases, and finally how his locs look in 2025. We’ll also explore styling details, how many dreads he has, tips for getting a similar look, and practical advice on caring for them. Whether you’re a fan curious about his hair journey or someone inspired to try Carti’s style yourself, this article covers it all.

1. The Origins & Evolution of Playboi Carti’s Loc Journey

When fans look back at Playboi Carti’s career, his dreads have been almost as talked about as his music. His loc journey reflects his growth as an artist — always evolving, never standing still.

1.1 How Playboi Carti Started His Dreads

Carti began locking his hair in the mid-2010s, around the time he was first gaining attention in the underground Atlanta rap scene. Early pictures from 2016 show short, freshly twisted sections. This was the starting point of what would later become a trademark look. Many fans ask, “How did Playboi Carti start his dreads?” — the answer is simple: he used the traditional twisting method, likely with a sponge or palm rolls, which worked well with his natural hair texture.

1.2 Playboi Carti Dreads 2016 – The Early Stage

In 2016, Carti’s hair was in the starter phase: small, tight twists that hadn’t fully matured. This look gave him a raw and rebellious edge that matched his sound at the time. His starter dreads became instantly recognizable, setting him apart from other new artists.

1.3 Playboi Carti Dreads 2017 – Growth & Recognition

By 2017, his dreads were longer, fuller, and starting to show Carti’s willingness to experiment. He began rocking different parts and high-top styles, and his locs had more shape. This period marked the moment fans stopped seeing his hair as just a hairstyle and started viewing it as a cultural statement.

1.4 Color Shifts & Experimentation

As his fame grew, so did his willingness to take risks. Fans saw Playboi Carti red dreads during live performances and photo shoots, which quickly became a viral look. Later, his blonde dreads grabbed even more attention, showing how he wasn’t afraid to push boundaries with bleach and dye. These bold choices influenced countless fans and cemented him as a fashion-forward figure.

1.5 Playboi Carti Dreads 2025 – The Current Era

Fast forward to 2025, and Carti’s dreads have reached a mature, fully locked stage. His hair is longer, looser at the ends, and styled in versatile ways. Whether left hanging, tied back, or dyed again, his 2025 dreads reflect years of growth and self-expression. For fans, playboi carti hair 2025 isn’t just about style — it’s about evolution, individuality, and staying true to an image that keeps inspiring new trends.

2. Signature Styles & Color Variations

One of the reasons Playboi Carti’s dreads stand out so much is the way he constantly experiments with styles and colors. Unlike many artists who stick to one look, Carti has made his hair part of his artistic identity — always changing, always bold.

2.1 Playboi Carti Red Dreads

The red dreads phase is perhaps one of his most iconic looks. Photos of Carti with bright crimson locs spread quickly across social media, and fans instantly began asking their stylists how to achieve the same shade. The red contrasted sharply with his fashion choices, making it a statement of rebellion and individuality.

2.2 Playboi Carti Blonde Dreads

Another unforgettable look was when Carti went blonde. His blonde dreads gave off a high-fashion vibe and showed how versatile dreads can be when paired with color. While bleaching locs comes with challenges, Carti’s stylist managed to keep them healthy and vibrant, inspiring many fans to try lighter tones themselves.

2.3 Playboi Carti Dreads 2016 vs 2017 vs 2025

Looking back, Carti’s locs in 2016 were small and tightly coiled. By 2017, they had grown into medium-length high-top styles. In 2025, his dreads are longer, looser, and styled in multiple ways — from tied-back looks to free-hanging locks. Each stage shows a different part of his journey, both musically and stylistically.

2.4 High-Top Dreads & Styling Experiments

A common question among fans is: “Does Playboi Carti have high-top dreads?” The answer is yes — especially in his earlier years. He often wore high-top styles where the sides were faded, leaving the dreads concentrated on top. Over time, he’s switched between high-top fades and full-head locs, depending on the look he wanted.

2.5 Beyond Colors – The Creative Freedom

What makes Carti unique is that his hair is never static. He’s rocked tight twists, loose freeform looks, and everything in between. Sometimes his locs are styled neatly for fashion shoots, and other times they’re left wild, matching his stage energy. This constant switching keeps fans guessing — and keeps his dreads at the center of style discussions.

3. Anatomy & Facts: How Many Dreads, Texture & Methods

Behind the bold colors and styles, there’s always curiosity about the actual details of Playboi Carti’s dreads. Fans often want to know how many he has, what technique he used, and whether they can get the same results.

3.1 How Many Dreads Does Playboi Carti Have?

One of the most common questions online is: “How many dreads does Playboi Carti have?” While the exact number isn’t confirmed — and can change with time — experts estimate he has between 70 to 100 individual locs, based on photos and growth patterns. The number varies because Carti’s dreads have thickened, combined, or separated during his journey.

3.2 Hair Texture & Its Role

Carti’s natural hair texture plays a huge role in his loc journey. With tightly coiled hair, his twists locked faster and held shape with less manipulation. This type of hair is ideal for dread formation, which is why his early starter dreads in 2016 matured so quickly compared to looser curl patterns.

3.3 Dread Methods Used

When fans ask “How did Playboi Carti start his dreads?” the answer points to classic techniques like:

• Sponge method – a popular tool in Atlanta during the mid-2010s, perfect for short coiled hair.
• Twist & palm roll – to help the sections stay neat as they grew.
• Freeform growth – at certain stages, Carti let his dreads develop naturally without much retwisting.

This mix of methods explains why his dreads don’t look uniform — some are thicker, some looser, giving him that effortless, rebellious vibe.

3.4 Does He Have High-Top Dreads or Full Locs?

Earlier in his career, Carti often rocked high-top dreads, with the sides faded for a clean look. Over time, as his hair grew out, he shifted to full-head locs, which allowed more versatility with styling. This switch mirrors his career growth: from underground energy to mainstream artistry.

3.5 What Makes Carti’s Dreads Unique

What sets Carti apart is the balance of structure and freedom. He didn’t stick to just one style or method. Instead, he experimented with colors, fades, lengths, and textures, letting his dreads evolve as naturally as his music.

4. How to Get Dreads Like Playboi Carti

Many fans see Carti’s hair and immediately wonder how to achieve the same look. While no two heads of hair are exactly alike, there are clear steps you can take if you want Playboi Carti dreads.

4.1 Start With Healthy Hair

Before anything else, focus on healthy, natural hair. Wash it regularly, avoid heavy products, and keep your scalp moisturized. Strong, hydrated hair locks faster and lasts longer.

4.2 Choose the Right Method

Carti’s journey suggests he used a combination of techniques. Depending on your hair type, here are the most effective methods:

• Sponge method: Great for short, coiled hair. Rub a twist sponge in circles to form sections.
• Finger twists or palm rolls: Twist small sections to encourage locking.
• Freeform approach: Let your hair naturally mat and lock with minimal manipulation, closer to Carti’s looser phases.

4.3 Sectioning & Count

If you’re aiming for Carti’s look, sectioning is important. Aim for medium-sized parts to create dreads that aren’t too thin or too thick. Over time, they’ll expand naturally, giving the same semi-freeform effect Carti is known for.

4.4 Be Patient With the Process

Carti didn’t grow his dreads overnight. His 2016 starter locs were short and tightly twisted. By 2017, they had more length and definition. In 2025, they’re fully matured and versatile. Expect your locs to go through similar stages — from frizz to budding to maturity.

4.5 Maintenance & Upkeep

• Wash your dreads with residue-free shampoo to avoid buildup.
• Moisturize your scalp with natural oils (jojoba, castor, coconut).
• Retwist if you want a neater look, or go semi-freeform for Carti’s natural vibe.
• If you plan to bleach or dye (like Playboi Carti red dreads or blonde dreads), visit a professional to avoid damage.

4.6 Expert Note: Hair Type Matters

Not everyone will get the exact same result. Carti’s natural curl pattern allowed his dreads to lock quickly. If your hair is looser, the process may take longer, or you may need different techniques. A professional loctician can give personalized advice.

5. Styling Tips & Maintenance

Getting dreads is only the first step — keeping them healthy and stylish is where the real work comes in. Playboi Carti’s locs show that with the right care, dreads can be both fashionable and long-lasting.

5.1 Washing & Scalp Care

Clean hair locks better and stays healthier. Use a residue-free shampoo once every 1–2 weeks to prevent buildup. Between washes, keep the scalp moisturized with light oils like jojoba or tea tree oil. This helps prevent itching and dryness, two common problems for new dread wearers.

5.2 Retwisting vs. Freeform

Carti’s dreads have gone through both retwisted phases and semi-freeform phases. If you want a neat, uniform look, retwist every 4–6 weeks. If you prefer his looser, more natural vibe, let your locs form without constant manipulation. Both approaches are valid — it just depends on your personal style.

5.3 Coloring & Bleaching Care

Carti’s red and blonde dreads inspired fans everywhere, but bleaching and dyeing locs can cause breakage if not done carefully.

• Always use a professional stylist for bleaching.
• Deep-condition your dreads regularly after coloring.
• Use color-safe shampoos to preserve vibrancy.

5.4 Styling Options

Carti has worn his dreads in multiple ways:

• High-top fade with dreads (earlier years).
• Full-head locs tied back for cleaner looks.
• Loose and wild for stage performances.
• Half-up styles that mix casual with edgy.

Adding accessories like beads or wraps can also give your dreads a personalized touch without damaging them.

5.5 Seasonal Maintenance

Dreads respond differently to weather:

• Summer: sweat and humidity may cause frizz, so wash more often.
• Winter: dryness is common, so oil your scalp regularly.
• Traveling/performing: keep a silk scarf or durag to protect your dreads at night.

5.6 Longevity Tips

Carti’s locs have lasted nearly a decade because of consistent care. Avoid overwashing, don’t overload with waxes or heavy products, and be gentle with styling. The less stress you put on the roots, the longer your dreads will thrive.

6. Common Questions, Myths & Expert Clarifications

Because Playboi Carti’s hair has changed so much over the years, fans often have questions and even misconceptions about his dreads. Here are some of the most common ones — answered clearly.

6.1 How Did Playboi Carti Start His Dreads?

Carti began his loc journey in the mid-2010s, most likely using the sponge method and basic twists. His natural hair texture allowed the sections to lock quickly, which is why his 2016 starter dreads matured into the fuller style we recognize today.

6.2 Does Playboi Carti Have High-Top Dreads?

Yes — in the early years, Carti often wore high-top dreads, with the sides shaved down. As his hair grew longer, he transitioned into full-head dreads, which allowed for more styling freedom.

6.3 How Many Dreads Does He Have?

While the exact number hasn’t been confirmed, stylists estimate Carti has around 70–100 dreads. The number changes over time as dreads combine or separate, which is normal for semi-freeform locs.

6.4 Myth: “Dreads Damage Hair”

This is a common misconception. Dreads themselves don’t damage hair if maintained properly. In fact, many people find their hair becomes stronger and thicker once locked. The real risks come from poor upkeep, harsh bleaching, or neglecting scalp health.

6.5 Can Anyone Get Playboi Carti Dreads?

Yes, but results vary. People with tightly coiled or kinky hair textures will have the easiest time achieving a look similar to Carti’s. Those with looser curls may need different methods, more time, or professional help from a loctician.

6.6 What About Playboi Carti Dreads Memes?

Over the years, fans have created memes comparing Carti’s different hairstyles — from his 2016 twists to his red and blonde dreads. While often funny, these memes highlight just how much his hair evolution has stayed in the spotlight.

Conclusion

Playboi Carti’s dreads are more than just a hairstyle — they’re part of his artistic identity and cultural influence. From the 2016 starter twists to the bold phases of red and blonde dreads, and now his fully matured 2025 locs, Carti has shown how hair can evolve with personality, creativity, and confidence.

For fans who want the same look, the key is patience, proper technique, and consistent care. Whether you’re inspired by his high-top dreads, his blonde phase, or his freeform evolution, remember that healthy hair and individuality matter most.

In the end, Playboi Carti dreads tell a story of growth, experimentation, and self-expression — a story that continues to inspire fans worldwide.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational and educational purposes only. The details about Playboi Carti’s hairstyles are based on publicly available sources, media appearances, and expert haircare insights. We do not claim official affiliation with Playboi Carti or his team. If you are considering starting or maintaining dreads, always consult with a professional hairstylist or loctician for personalized advice suited to your hair type and condition.