By Elizabeth Larkwor Baah
Tema, Dec. 12, GNA – Natural dreadlocks hairstyles that represent natural beauty and were once predominantly associated with Rastafarianism have become increasingly popular among both men and women in Tema.
The shift in hairstyle trends highlights a broader acceptance of natural hair, and many salons now offer services such as twisting, locking, and hair treatment specifically tailored for natural dreadlocks.
In Tema, the number of individuals wearing natural dreadlocks has increased significantly over the past few years, which has also created opportunities for local hairdressers and stylists who are specialising in dreadlock maintenance.
Mr. Ebenezer Abui, a dreadlocks specialist in Tema Community One, who has more than 12 years of experience, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview that demand for dreadlocks had grown in both men and women over the time, saying that previously, he hardly got clients asking for dreadlock care in Tema.
Mr. Abui attributed the change to a shift in mindset and an appreciation for natural hairstyles, stating, “People are beginning to see dreadlocks as a beautiful way to embrace their natural hair without chemicals or extensions.”
He mentioned that dreadlocks were grouped in three types, namely, interlock, crouching, and comtwist, adding that the appearance of one’s dreadlocks depended on the nature of the person’s natural hair and the type of lock that was done for the person.
The dreadlocks stylist said maintaining dreadlocks was cheaper and easier compared to other hairstyles, while it also facilitated faster hair growth.
Some residents shared their decision to transition to natural dreadlocks with the GNA.
Ms. Lily Adutwum, a dreadlock lover, stated, “I wanted something limited maintenance that would allow me to embrace my natural hair, and I do not regret locking my hair. I wash it once a week with black soap and apply shea butter, and my hair is growing fast.”
She added that “Initially, people assumed I had become a Rastafarian, but over time, they understood it was just a personal choice. I was tired of applying chemicals and using the hair dryer because I had a headache anytime I used it.”
Mr. Amos Asiedu, a mobile money vendor and resident of Tema Community One, said he opted to wear dreadlocks because most of his friends had done it, saying that, although people have the notion that men in dreadlocks were either miscreants or Rastafarians, time was gradually changing that perception and people were now embracing the hairstyle.
Madam Magdalen Ansah, a businessperson, mentioned that her three children were unhappy with her when she decided to wear dreadlocks, considering the perception that had been associated with the hairstyle.
She, however, added that her daughter, who is a final-year student at the University of Ghana, had also opted for dreadlocks.
She added that she preferred organic oils and shampoos to maintain her locks, stressing that “times have changed, and as I am ageing, I prefer going natural in everything.”
GNA