How much will it cost? The cost will depend on a few factors such as are you wanting an install of new locks with or without extensions. Will your extensions be human hair, wool or synthetic? Will they require dying? Are you requiring maintenance on shoulder length or waist length locks? When did you last have maintenance? Or are you wanting a temporary set of dreadlocks installed? Would you like your current locks decorated? To enquire about how much your service will cost please complete the ‘contact us’ form or use the WhatsApp link.
How long will my appointment take? This can depend on hair length and curl pattern. ‘Typically’ a new install on a whole head will take around a full day. A full head with extensions will require two days. Partial locks or a temporary install will take around half a day. Maintenance can take a couple of hours or a a whole day. To find out how long your appointment may take please complete the ‘contact us’ form or use WhatsApp link..
How long does my hair have to be? The longer your hair the better, but even short hair can be locked. Extensions can be added in at just a few inches depending on your hair type and curl pattern. To enquire if your hair is long enough to start your dreadlock journey please send some photo’s via the ‘contact us’ form or the WhatsApp link.
What method do you use? At Alchemy Dreadlocks you will get instant locks created with the backcomb and crochet method. There is no damage and your hair looks great from day one. We do not use any products, chemicals or wax in the creation of your dreadlocks.
Where are you based? Alchemy Dreadlocks is a home based studio in Caversham an area of Reading in Berkshire. A mobile service is available on request and with prior agreement. This is charged at the same hourly rate as visiting the studio but will incur additional costs to cover travel time and mileage expenses.
How much length will I lose? Yes, shrinkage is a real thing. There is no definite answer to that as this depends wholly on your hair type and how you look after your hair. But all you can be sure that it WILL happen. Length can be discussed at a consultation or having received photo’s of your hair.
What do I need to do to prepare for my dreadlocks? Please arrive with clean dry hair. Shampoo your hair a day or two prior to your appointment with a sulphate and residue free shampoo. Please DO NOT use any conditioner or oils in your hair.
Do I need maintenance? This is entirely a personal choice. Some customers like their locks super tidy and come every three months. While others visit every six months and some learn to do their own maintenance. Maintenance intervals also depend on how quickly your hair grows and how much you are doing in-between appointments to maintain your dreadlocks and scalp health. There is no one answer fits all and some people never have maintenance once they have their dreadlocks.
Can I wash my hair after? Absolutely, clean hair is happy hair. It is important for your dreadlocks that you maintain a healthy scalp. After an install or maintenance your head may be tender so we would advise leaving your locks for a couple of days to settle. Then continue to wash your hair as usual. We will give advice at your appointment on what products to use, avoid and how to care for your hair moving forward into your dreadlock journey.
What can I expect at my appointment? You can expect a friendly welcome! I am happy to chat with you throughout your time at the studio. I am also happy to give you ‘the silent treatment’ if you prefer a quiet environment or need to work that is also fine. The appointment is yours! We will always offer advice on aftercare, products and self-maintenance for your dreadlocks.
The Studio you will be proved fresh drinking water but please bring any other drinks and snacks you may require. If you will be working during your appointment we have a fully adjustable laptop table for your use.
Can dreadlocks be removed? Yes they can. It takes time and patience but it is absolutely possible to remove dreadlocks. Alchemy Dreadlocks provides a removal service or it can be done at home. I would advise that you only attempt this on dry hair as wet hair becomes stretchy and more liable to breakage.
Alchemy Dreadlocks 