Single & Double-Ended Dreads: Everything You Need to Know!
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- October 24, 2025
Have you heard about single and double-ended dreads? Starting the dreadlocks is a lifestyle that covers various aspects. It includes adding the loc extensions to your natural hair for styling and other purposes. In this blog, we will share what is single-ended, double-and double-ended, and which type is better.
Follow Dreadlockswig and get expert advice about how to install dreadlocks, tips to maintain dreads, and the latest dreadlocks hairstyles. This is the right platform if you are a beginner and looking for a thorough guide about dreadlock tips and tricks. Let’s dig into single and double-ended dreads without a further duo.
What are Single-Ended Dreads?
Single-ended dreads, commonly known as SE dreads, are loc extensions with a single loop at the end. The single loop at the end braids the locs into your natural hair. Moreover, they are easy to install in your hair by taking a small section of your hair.
SE dread extensions lay flatter on your natural hair and look natural. Further, if their color matches your natural hair color, they are impossible to detect as extensions.
Additionally, you will need 70 to 100 single-ended single-ended dreads to install on your head for full coverage, adding extra length and volume to your hair. Furthermore, you can decide the dread number according to your head.
Advantages of Single-Ended Dreads:
Starting the extensions with single-ended dreads is a great idea as it is a straightforward approach for beginners and comes with a number of advantages. Here, we share a few benefits of using single-ended dread extensions:
1: Comfort
When it comes to the hair, for some individuals, it is comforting over everything; the single-ended single-ended dreads are comfortable to use in sensitive areas.
Additionally, the locs are easy to install and do not cause any irritation on the scalp, which makes them a great choice.
2: Lighter
The single-ended dreads are lighter on the neck and don’t cause any extra stress or tension on the scalp.
3: Versatile
The locs are easy to add for extra length and styling. The locs, when added, give visibility to the braids. So, you can get more creative in styling your hair into braids with additional dreadlock extensions.
4: Extra length and volume
These braids are best to use as add-ons for the dreadlock hair. The locs look natural and add extra length and volume, which some people might need for different hairstyling options.
What are Double-Ended Dreads?
Double-ended dreads, also known as DE, are equally popular among users. Locom extensions are popular as they have a thicker effect on natural locs. In addition, as the name suggests, the locs have two ends, making it easy to install.
The dreads are made of wool and are much lighter than synthetic dreads. Further, the two ends are less visible in the braids, which is a plus point. Moreover, there are some other advantages of using double-ended dreads, which we share here.
Advantages of Double-Ended Dreads:
Here are a few uses of double-ended dreads:
1: Easy installation
With the two ends on the sides, the dreads are easy to install; if you are a beginner, you can still install them in your natural dreadlocks by the most straightforward technique: braiding.
2: Thicker effect
Double-ended dread extensions give a thicker and bouncer effect to the natural hair. If you have thin dreadlocks already, you can still achieve high volume and a bouncy look by adding double-ended dreads.
3: Styling
Double-ended dreads are best for styling teh dreadlocks. They are the best choice to house your scalp or natural hair. Furthermore, the locs are best for styling options such as braiding, ponytails, and heavy buns.
How Many Double-Ended Dreads Do You Need?
The number of dreads you need depends on the purpose. For instance, it depends on whether you want to add dreadlock extensions for styling, add extra volume, or get a thicker look.
On average, you need 40 to 60 double-ended dreads for a natural look. You can add more dreads if you want according to your style. Furthermore, the number may increase depending on the size of your scalp.
Lastly, a professional loctician can better understand how many pairs of double-ended dreads you need for the desired look.
Which One Is Better?
Choosing the correct type of dread extension depends on your use. It is totally a personal choice as it depends on what kind of style you want to curate. In the professional settings, double ended dreads are preferred as they add extra volume to the natural hair along with a natural look.
A protip is to use both. You can mix either type of dreadlock. For that, visit a professional and get help from their experience. Whichever type you choose, both look unreal if installed correctly.
FAQs
What’s better, single-ended or double-ended dreads?
There is no better or lesser option as both options offer equal benefits. The double-and double-ended are typically preferred in passive settings as they give more volume than other types.
How many single-ended dreads for the whole head?
Depending on the use and type of style you want, you can get at least 50 SE dreadlocks. Further, their use depends on the original hair locs number and diameter.
How long do single-ended dreads last?
The lifetime of single-ended dreads is almost three or more months of continuous wearing. Ideally, you can use them for two months straight and remove them for a few days to let your scalp rest.
