Although they are similar hairstyles, dreads and braids are fundamentally quite different. Perhaps most apparent is the way each is structured — dreads take time to form, while braids can easily and quickly be patterned. Due to their maintenance and composition, dreads are meant to last much longer than braids. Dreads are also wrongly associated with various negative stereotypes, while many people consider braids to be appropriate for most anyone. Additionally, dreads are somewhat of a permanent hairstyle, while braids can easily be taken out.
The first step to creating both dreads and braids is typically to section off strands of hair, though the processes differ from that point on. While there are many ways to create the locks, it generally takes several weeks for the coils to take on the look of authentic dreads. One of the most popular methods is to take each section of hair, backcomb it and continually twist it into the traditional dread shape. The dreads continue to naturally form as hair mats together during growth.
Braids, on the other hand, are taken out just as easily as they are formed. Braids are created by taking three or more strands of hair and weaving them in an overlapping zigzag shape. They are typically quite long, and are used in more instances than hairstyling. Rugs, accessories, horse manes, and other fabrics are often braided into complex structures.
Human hair is generally braided with three strands. Solo braids, pigtail braids, and French braids have been popular hairstyles for centuries. These kinds of braids are typically tied at the end with a rubber band or pinned to the head. Likewise, whole heads of hair that have been braided into hundreds of tiny braids that are left loose at the ends, often called zillions, have become trendy in the last few decades.
Dreads and braids also have different maintenance routines. Braids are often left in for short periods of time — less than a day — and therefore require little or no maintenance. For those who keep zillions or micro braids in for weeks at a time, however, sleeping with a cotton bandana to absorb oil and avoiding residual conditioners helps maintain hair health. People with dreads often use waxes and residue-free shampoos in order to preserve the proper look and hygiene.
Dreads and braids have varied lasting effects. Braids can be unwoven with little to no breakage. Dreads, on the other hand, are teased and matted, resulting in a plethora of knots that are difficult to untangle. Many people who’ve worn dreads for years simply decide to cut their hair near the roots and start anew.
Contrary to popular belief, neither dreads nor locks are necessarily dirty or unhygienic. While many traditional dreadlocks have been formed into different sized locks by neglect, most people who wear locks today wash their hair every three to seven days. Additionally, many begin the dreadlocking process by sectioning hair into several equally-sized sections in order to grow a more presentable mass of hair.
When it comes to lifestyle association, those who choose to sport dreads or braids have varied lives. Contrary to popular belief, braids are not exclusively for black hair, nor are dreads exclusively for hippies. It is important to note, however, that the 20th century brought about vegetarian, vegan and other natural lifestyle movements that prompted many more people to choose the natural look of dreadlocks. After both hairstyles are formed, dreads and braids are said to be more easily maintained than other hairstyles.