Skytop Dreads: My Personal Journey, Styles, Care Tips & Expert Advice

Not gonna lie, the first time I thought about getting skytop dreads, I was both excited and nervous. I had been rocking simple fades for years, but something inside me wanted a bolder look—something that would really stand out and reflect my personality. The idea of combining that sharp, clean high-top haircut with the rugged, cultural strength of dreads felt like the perfect balance. I still remember scrolling through pictures of skytop haircut dreads, seeing how unique they looked, and thinking to myself, “Yeah, this might just be the style I’ve been waiting for.”

So, what exactly are skytop dreads? At their core, they’re a fusion between a high top haircut and dreadlocks—you keep the sides trimmed, faded, or tapered, while the top is allowed to lock and grow into dreads. Some call it skytop fade dreads, others say skytop braids mohawk dreads, but the essence remains the same: a bold, elevated style that mixes structure with freeform creativity.

Part of the reason people are drawn to skytop dreads is because they make a strong statement. They stand out in a crowd, they show confidence, and they allow you to play with different variations—from memes online to celebrity-inspired looks like DDG’s skytop dreads. But at the same time, there are a lot of misunderstandings. Some folks think it’s just another version of high top dreads, while others don’t realize how much maintenance and commitment go into keeping them sharp.

For me, the motivation was simple: I wanted a hairstyle that wasn’t just about looks, but about identity—something that could evolve with me while still carrying cultural weight. And trust me, once you start your skytop dreads journey, you quickly learn it’s more than just a haircut; it’s a lifestyle.

Understanding Skytop Dreads

What Are Skytop Dreads?

If you’re hearing the term for the first time, you might be wondering “what is skytop dreads?” or “what is a skytop haircut dreads style?” In simple words, it’s a hairstyle where the sides and back are cut short or faded (like a drop fade or taper fade), while the top is left long enough to lock into dreads. Think of it as a fusion between the sharp structure of a high top haircut and the cultural depth of dreadlocks.

Unlike full-head locs that cover the entire scalp, skytop dreads focus on the top section. This gives you a cleaner look on the sides, making it easier to maintain while still giving space for creativity on top. That’s why some people also call it skytop haircut, skytop fade dreads, or even experiment with skytop braids mohawk dreads.

How It Differs From Other Styles

One of the most common confusions is mixing up high top dreads with skytop dreads. While both share similarities, skytop dreads usually involve a sharper contrast—like a drop fade that creates a more defined separation between the sides and the locs on top. The overall vibe is edgier and more modern.

Compared to full locs, skytop dreads also give you more styling freedom. You can try out fades, patterns, or even shaved designs on the sides while still keeping the locs up top. That balance between neatness and boldness is what makes them stand out.

Variations in Naming and Culture

Like with most hairstyles, the internet has added its own flavor. You’ll see memes about skytop dreads of doom, funny takes on the style, and even discussions about rappers or influencers who wear it. For example, people often reference DDG skytop dreads as an inspiration for the modern version of the look.

No matter what name you use—skytop dreads, skytop fade, or skytop mohawk—the style has grown into its own cultural lane. It’s not just about hair anymore; it’s about self-expression, and in many ways, it’s become a fashion statement.

Is Skytop Dreads Right for You? Pros & Cons

When I first decided to try skytop dreads, I honestly didn’t realize how much thought needed to go into it. It wasn’t just about the look—it was about whether I could handle the commitment, the upkeep, and the reactions that came with it. If you’re wondering whether to go for it, here’s a breakdown based on both my personal journey and what experts usually highlight.

The Pros

• Unique Style & Confidence Boost
  The first thing I noticed after getting my skytop dreads was how much attention they drew. People complimented the bold look, and it gave me a sense of confidence I hadn’t felt with a regular fade. If you like standing out in a crowd, this style definitely does the job.
• Versatility in Styling
  With skytop dreads, you’re not locked into just one look. You can go for a drop fade, a skytop mohawk dreads style, or even add color, beads, or wraps to your locs. I remember experimenting with a few braids on top once, and the result was surprisingly fresh.
• Balance of Clean & Creative
  The short sides make it easier to maintain compared to full-head locs. You still get that dreadlock vibe on top, but the clean fade on the sides keeps the overall style neat and sharp.

The Cons

• Maintenance Can Be Tricky
  I won’t sugarcoat it—keeping skytop dreads in shape isn’t as easy as it looks. You need regular retwists, barber visits for the sides, and the right products to avoid buildup. I learned this the hard way when I skipped a few weeks and ended up with messy, uneven growth.
• Not Always “Work-Friendly”
  Depending on your environment, not everyone will understand the style. While it’s widely accepted in fashion and music circles, I did get a few side glances in professional settings. If you’re in a strict corporate space, think carefully about whether you can balance your personal style with workplace expectations.
• Hair & Scalp Pressure
  Dreads, especially when they grow longer, can put weight on your hair roots. If you’re not careful, it may cause thinning or breakage. I had to start moisturizing and massaging my scalp regularly to avoid that.

Who It Suits Best

From what I’ve seen and experienced, skytop dreads work best for people with thicker, coarser hair textures, since they lock more easily. Face shape also plays a role—the style tends to flatter round or oval faces by adding height and sharpness. If you’re into bold fashion choices and can commit to upkeep, then this hairstyle might just be for you.

How to Get Skytop Dreads – Step-by-Step Guide

When I finally committed to skytop dreads, I thought it would be as simple as asking my barber to fade the sides and twist the top. Trust me—it’s more detailed than that. If you’re thinking about starting your own journey, here’s the process broken down with a mix of expert guidance and what I personally went through.

1. Planning and Preparation

Before I even sat in the chair, I had to decide what I really wanted:

• Did I want a sharp drop fade on the sides, or a more subtle taper?
• How tall should the top be?
• Should I start my locs neat or go semi-freeform?

I spent weeks looking at pictures online, from DDG skytop dreads to different skytop dreads styles, before narrowing down what felt right for me. The key here is to do your research. Once those dreads start, you can’t just undo them overnight.

2. The Cut – Shaping the Sides

The foundation of skytop dreads is the cut. My barber started with a drop fade to create a clear contrast between the sides and the top. Some people prefer a low fade or even designs shaved into the sides for a more custom look. This step is crucial because it sets the framework for how your dreads will stand out.

3. Starting the Dreads

Here’s where the real work begins. I had a few options:

• Twist & Rip – great for beginners, but can feel messy at first.
• Palm Rolling – gives a neat, defined look (what I went for).
• Freeform – less work, but you give up some control over shape.

I went with palm rolling because I wanted my skytop to look sharp from the beginning. It hurt a little during the first session, but seeing those clean starter locs on top of the fade was worth it.

4. Maintaining the Balance

One of the biggest challenges I faced was keeping the sides neat while the top grew out. You’ll need regular visits to your barber for the fade, usually every 2–3 weeks. At the same time, the locs on top need retwisting or interlocking every 4–6 weeks, depending on how fast your hair grows.

It’s a balance—ignore the sides, and the fade looks rough; ignore the top, and the dreads lose their shape.

5. Daily Care & Upkeep

This part can’t be skipped. Skytop dreads need consistent care:

• Washing – Use residue-free shampoo so your locs don’t get buildup.
• Moisturizing – I learned to spray rose water and light oils on my scalp to keep it healthy.
• Sleeping – A satin bonnet or pillowcase is a must; otherwise, you’ll wake up with lint and frizz everywhere.

At first, I underestimated how much time this would take. But over time, I built it into my routine, and it became second nature.

Looking back, I can say the process of getting skytop haircut dreads is both exciting and challenging. The transformation from a fresh fade to a defined dread style feels amazing, but you need patience and discipline to get it right.

Styling Skytop Dreads – Inspiration & Variations

Once I got past the starter phase, styling my skytop dreads became the fun part. At first, I kept it simple—just letting the locs fall naturally on top of the fade. But as they grew longer, I realized there are countless ways to switch things up and keep the style fresh. Here are some variations and tips I’ve tried (or seen others pull off) that can help you decide how to make the look your own.

1. Playing with Color & Accessories

The moment I added a touch of color highlights to my dreads, the style went from good to eye-catching.

• Blonde or caramel tips can make the locs pop against the dark fade.
• Beads, cuffs, or wraps are another way to express personality—small details, but they change the vibe completely.
• I’ve even seen people rock bold colors like red or blue, turning their skytop dreads styles into a real statement.

2. Shape and Structure

Not every skytop has to look the same. I experimented with different silhouettes:

• A rounded top gave me a softer, fuller look.
• A flat-top shape made it feel more like a throwback high-top fade with a twist.
• One time, I even tried a skytop mohawk dread style, where the locs ran like a stripe down the middle—it was bold, but I loved the edge it gave me.

3. Braids and Twist Styles

One of the coolest things I tried was braiding my skytop dreads. A simple two-strand twist across the top gave it a cleaner, more polished look. For special occasions, I went for crisscross patterns that made people ask, “Where’d you get that done?”

Braids not only change the style but also help manage growth, keeping locs tidy while protecting them.

4. Everyday Styling

Day to day, I realized small routines made a big difference:

• Sometimes I wore them loose and natural for that casual vibe.
• Other times, I’d tie them up in a short ponytail or pull them back with a band.
• On lazy days, I just let them sit naturally, which gave off a carefree, confident look.

No matter how you wear them, drop fades on the sides keep the whole style sharp.

5. Transitioning Styles

There came a time when I thought about switching it up. If you ever get bored of skytop dreads, you can:

• Let the sides grow out into full-head locs.
• Cut down the top and fade it into a clean haircut.
• Or go bold and reshape it into a skytop dreads of doom style—extreme, exaggerated, and meme-worthy.

For me, experimenting kept the journey exciting. I never felt stuck with one look.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

When I first started my skytop dreads journey, I made a few mistakes that set me back. Some were small, but others taught me lessons I wish I had known from day one. If you’re planning to get skytop haircut dreads, here are the most common pitfalls—and how you can avoid them.

1. Ignoring the Sides

The whole point of skytop dreads is the contrast between the faded sides and the dreads on top. At one point, I let my fade grow out for too long, and it completely killed the look. Without those sharp lines, the style just looked messy.

Tip: Stick to a consistent barber schedule—usually every 2–3 weeks—to keep the fade clean and fresh.

2. Using the Wrong Products

Early on, I made the mistake of using heavy waxes and gels. They left residue, made my scalp itchy, and caused buildup in my locs.

Tip: Always go for light, residue-free products—things like rose water sprays or natural oils. Trust me, your scalp will thank you.

3. Neglecting Scalp Care

I thought dreads were “low-maintenance.” Big mistake. Without regular moisturizing, my scalp got dry, flaky, and uncomfortable.

Tip: Treat your scalp like your skin—hydrate it. A little oil massage once or twice a week made a huge difference for me.

4. Starting with Hair Too Short

I was impatient, so I tried starting dreads with hair that was barely long enough. The result? My locs kept slipping out, and I had to redo them multiple times.

Tip: Ideally, your hair should be at least 3–4 inches long before starting skytop dreads. That way, the locs hold better and mature faster.

5. Expecting Perfect Results Overnight

I used to scroll Instagram and wonder why my skytop dreads didn’t look like the ones in photos. The truth is, locs take time to mature and develop their unique shape.

Tip: Be patient. The first few months can look rough, but that’s part of the journey. With time, your skytop dreads will tighten and look better than you imagined.

Looking back, every mistake taught me something about patience and proper care. If you avoid these pitfalls, your skytop dreads experience will be smoother, healthier, and more enjoyable.

Celebrity & Cultural References

One thing that really pushed me toward trying skytop dreads was seeing how much the style had taken over in pop culture. I’d scroll through social media, watch rap videos, or even catch memes about skytop dreads of doom, and it felt like this hairstyle had become more than just a personal choice—it was part of a bigger cultural wave.

Rappers & Influencers Leading the Trend

Rappers have always been style-setters when it comes to locs. Artists like Jay Z and Lil Wayne popularized dreadlocks in their own way, and while they didn’t specifically start the skytop version, their influence created space for variations like this to thrive.

More recently, creators like DDG with his skytop dreads made the style mainstream for younger fans. Watching his content, I saw how the cut, the fade, and the locs combined to create something fresh, sharp, and versatile.

The Meme Culture

You can’t talk about skytop dreads without mentioning the memes. I remember laughing at the “skytop dreads of doom” posts online, where people exaggerated the height and shape to make it look almost cartoonish. While they’re meant to be funny, memes also highlight how recognizable the style has become. When a haircut can spark jokes, trends, and even debates, you know it’s made an impact.

Fashion & Self-Expression

Beyond music and internet culture, skytop dreads also found a place in everyday style. I noticed people pairing them with streetwear, bold accessories, and even luxury fits. For many, the hairstyle is a way to express individuality—keeping the clean lines of a fade while rocking the natural, cultural strength of dreads.

For me, knowing that skytop dreads carried both cultural weight and modern relevance made me feel more confident in my choice. It wasn’t just a haircut—it was a connection to a movement that blends tradition with creativity.

Cost, Time & Commitment

Before I got skytop dreads, I thought it would just be a one-time cut and twist. I quickly learned that this style requires not only money but also patience and consistency. If you’re considering it, here’s what you should know about the real investment behind the look.

The Initial Setup

Getting skytop dreads usually starts with two costs:

• The Cut: A clean fade or drop fade at the barber shop. For me, this cost anywhere from $20 to $40 depending on the barber.
• Starting the Locs: If you go to a loctician, starter dreads can run $70 to $150 depending on the method (palm rolling, interlocking, etc.) and your hair length.

When I first sat in the chair, I spent about $100 total just to get the style started.

Ongoing Maintenance

This is where the commitment really kicks in.

• Barber Visits: To keep the sides sharp, you’ll need a fade every 2–3 weeks. That’s another $20–$40 per visit.
• Retwists or Interlocking: Every 4–6 weeks, your dreads will need care. Retwists can cost $50–$100 depending on your loctician.
• Products: From shampoos to oils and sprays, I spend about $15–$30 a month keeping my locs healthy.

At first, I thought I could stretch appointments, but the style only looks right when both the fade and the dreads are kept fresh.

The Time Investment

Money aside, the biggest thing I had to adjust to was the time.

• Weekly Care: Washing, moisturizing, and protecting my dreads at night takes 20–30 minutes.
• Appointments: Between the barber and the loctician, I easily spend 2–3 hours every month in a chair.
• Growth Period: Dreads don’t mature overnight. Mine took almost a year before they looked exactly the way I wanted.

Long-Term Commitment

Once you’re in, you’re in. Skytop dreads are not a temporary style unless you’re ready to cut them off completely. The locs get stronger and better with time, but you need to be committed to the upkeep.

For me, the cost and effort were worth it. The style gave me confidence, and the compliments I got reminded me that the work wasn’t in vain. But if you’re looking for something low-maintenance and cheap, this might not be the right hairstyle for you.

Health, Care & Longevity

When I first got my skytop dreads, I honestly thought keeping them healthy would just mean washing them once in a while. But I quickly learned that if you want your locs to last—and actually look good—you have to treat them like a long-term investment. Here’s what I discovered along the way about keeping them strong and lasting.

Scalp Health Comes First

Your dreads will only be as healthy as the scalp they grow from. In my early months, I neglected moisturizing, and my scalp got dry and flaky. It wasn’t just uncomfortable—it also made my hair more fragile.

Tip: Use light oils like jojoba or coconut oil. I spray rose water mixed with a few drops of oil at least 2–3 times a week, and it keeps both my scalp and locs hydrated.

Washing Without Weakening

One mistake people make is either overwashing (which dries the hair) or not washing enough (which leads to buildup). I found the sweet spot to be every 1–2 weeks, using a residue-free shampoo. That way, my locs stay clean without losing their natural oils.

Protecting While Sleeping

I didn’t realize how much damage could happen at night until I woke up with frizz and lint stuck in my dreads. Sleeping on cotton pillowcases was the culprit.

Tip: Always use a satin bonnet or a silk pillowcase. It reduces friction, prevents breakage, and helps your locs hold their shape.

Seasonal Challenges

Skytop dreads react differently depending on the weather:

• Summer: Sweat and humidity can make the scalp itchy, so I washed more often and tied them up.
• Winter: Cold air dried out my hair, so I focused more on moisturizing and wearing protective caps.

Adapting to the seasons kept my locs from getting brittle or frizzy.

Longevity & Growth

The more consistent I was with care, the stronger my dreads became. By the one-year mark, they were firmer, thicker, and had their own natural shape. The key was consistency—skipping maintenance always set me back.

Over time, I realized that skytop dreads aren’t just about looking good for a few months. With proper care, they can last for years and only get better with age.

FAQs and People Also Ask

When I was researching skytop dreads, I had a million questions in my head. Honestly, I even Googled some of the same things people type into “People Also Ask.” Here are the most common ones, answered with a mix of facts and my personal experience.

What are hightop dreadlocks?

High top dreads are locs that grow only on the top portion of the head, with the sides shaved, tapered, or faded. Skytop dreads are basically a modern variation of this style, often paired with sharper fades like a drop fade or styled into mohawks and braids for extra flair.

What kind of locs does Jay Z have?

Jay Z has freeform locs, which means they’re grown naturally without constant retwisting or shaping. They’re thicker, more organic in appearance, and less controlled than styles like skytop dreads.

Did Lil Wayne get his dreads cut off?

Over the years, Lil Wayne has trimmed and reshaped his dreads, sparking rumors about whether he cut them off entirely. He still wears dreadlocks, but they’ve evolved in length and density compared to his earlier look.

What rapper has big dreads?

Plenty of rappers are known for big, bold locs—Waka Flocka Flame, J. Cole, and Chief Keef, just to name a few. These artists helped push dreadlocks into mainstream culture, influencing styles like skytop dreads along the way.

Who made locs famous?

Dreadlocks have a deep history that goes way beyond pop culture—rooted in African traditions, Rastafarian culture, and spiritual practices. However, in modern times, figures like Bob Marley brought them to global attention. Today, celebrities, athletes, and influencers continue to reshape what locs look like in mainstream style.

What are fake locs?

Fake locs, also known as faux locs, are extensions designed to give the look of dreadlocks without the long-term commitment. They can be braided or wrapped into natural hair and are a good option for people who want to “test drive” a style like skytop dreads before fully committing.

For me, reading through these questions early on helped clear up myths and gave me a realistic picture of what I was getting into. And once I started my own journey, I realized a lot of the answers online lined up with what I experienced in real life.

My Personal Experience & Lessons Learned

When I finally committed to skytop dreads, I honestly thought it would just be a cool haircut that made me stand out. But the deeper I got into the journey, the more I realized it was about patience, discipline, and even self-expression in ways I hadn’t imagined. Here’s what my experience taught me.

The Early Days

The first few weeks were rough. My locs were short, stiff, and didn’t look anything like the polished styles I saw online. There were days I questioned if I made the right choice. I remember looking in the mirror and thinking, “This doesn’t look like DDG skytop dreads—did I mess up?” But with time, they started to mature, and slowly, the vision came together.

Small Wins That Kept Me Going

The first time someone complimented my hair, I felt like all the maintenance was worth it. Little moments like getting my fade cleaned up and seeing how sharp the contrast looked made me proud of the decision. Experimenting with a few skytop dreads styles, like braids and ponytails, gave me confidence that I could switch things up whenever I wanted.

Mistakes I Won’t Repeat

I learned the hard way that skipping scalp care leads to dryness, and neglecting barber visits ruins the whole look. One time, I let my sides grow out too much, and it made my dreads look sloppy, even though the locs themselves were fine. Lesson learned: balance matters.

The Lifestyle Shift

Over time, I realized skytop dreads aren’t just about appearance—they change how people see you and how you see yourself. They demand consistency, but they also give you a unique identity. It wasn’t just a hairstyle anymore—it became part of how I carried myself.

Advice I’d Give to Anyone Considering It

If you’re thinking about skytop dreads, here’s my honest advice:

• Be patient—dreads don’t mature overnight.
• Don’t cheap out on care—invest in good products and regular maintenance.
• Own the look—once you commit, wear it with confidence.

For me, skytop dreads were more than worth it. They taught me responsibility while giving me a style that felt true to who I am.

Conclusion

Looking back, my journey with skytop dreads has been a mix of challenges, lessons, and some of the best style decisions I’ve ever made. From the sharp fade on the sides to the locs growing strong on top, the style gave me confidence, individuality, and a sense of connection to culture and creativity. It wasn’t always easy—the upkeep, scalp care, and patience tested me—but the results were worth it.

If you’re thinking about getting skytop dreads, my honest advice is simple: be ready for the commitment, respect the process, and enjoy the transformation. It’s more than just a haircut—it’s a lifestyle that will grow with you, shape your identity, and turn heads wherever you go.

Disclaimer

This article is based on my personal experience with skytop dreads, combined with general knowledge about dreadlock care and styling. I am not a licensed barber, hairstylist, or dermatologist. Everyone’s hair type and lifestyle are different, so results and experiences may vary. For professional guidance, scalp concerns, or advanced styling methods, please consult a qualified hairstylist or loctician.