I’m Hakan — a men’s grooming specialist with over a decade helping clients build modern, wearable looks. Dreadlocks are one of the most versatile styles a man can wear: from tight starter locs to freeform long dreads, tapered fades to neat short locs. They suit a wide range of hair textures, face shapes and lifestyles — provided you choose the right thickness, length and maintenance level. In this post I show 32 curated dreadlock images and explain which options work best for different men: professionals, creatives, athletes and those seeking a low-maintenance routine. You’ll get practical tips on starting locs, daily grooming, product recommendations, nightly protection and how to pair locs with fades or facial hair. Whether you’re exploring locs for the first time or refining an existing set, my hands-on experience will help you pick a look that fits your style and maintenance goals.
High Dreadlock Bun with Tapered Sides — Mens Locs Style
A high dreadlock bun with tapered or faded sides flatters oval, square and heart-shaped faces by adding height and elongating the profile; it also balances broader or rounder faces when you leave a few face-framing locs down. Styling begins with clean, mature locs — gather them at the crown and secure with a strong, fabric-wrapped elastic or loc-friendly band; twist and wrap into a loose or tight bun depending on desired volume and secure stray locs with small rubber bands or bobby pins. Tools: wide-tooth comb for detangling, rat-tail comb for parting, small crochet hook (0.5–1.5 mm) for maintenance, strong elastic bands, clips and a microfiber towel. Products: residue-free clarifying shampoo, lightweight natural oil (jojoba or grapeseed) for the scalp, locking gel or cream for retwists (sparingly), and a scalp soothing spray. Difficulty: moderate — easy to gather daily, but loc creation and retwisting need practice or a pro. Maintenance tips: retwist every 4–8 weeks, wash every 1–2 weeks with thorough drying, palm-roll to keep shape, avoid heavy wax buildup, and sleep with a satin scarf or bonnet to reduce frizz.
High Messy Dreadlock Bun for Men — Natural Textured Top Knot
This high messy dreadlock bun combines relaxed texture with structured volume, flattering a wide range of face shapes. It works particularly well for oval and oblong faces and helps elongate round faces; men with square or heart shapes can soften angles by leaving face-framing locks loose. To style: gather mature dreadlocks at the crown, secure with a sturdy elastic, then wrap and tuck to form a loose bun—leave a few dreads out for movement. For a half-up version, tie only the top section and let the rest hang. Tools needed: strong hair ties, a few bobby pins, a rat-tail comb for parting, a small crochet hook or dread tool for tightening, and a microfiber towel. Recommended products: residue-free clarifying shampoo, light locking gel or wax (sparingly), leave-in conditioning spray, scalp oil (jojoba or tea tree), and matte paste to tame edges. Difficulty: moderate — the daily bun is simple, but creating and maintaining healthy dreads requires time. Maintenance tips: wash every 1–2 weeks, palm-roll or tighten roots weekly, separate fusing locks, protect at night with a silk/satin wrap, and schedule touch-ups with a loctician every 3–4 months.
Long Dreadlocks Half-Up with Undercut — Mens Dreadlock Hairstyle
This long dreadlocks half-up with undercut suits oval, square, and diamond face shapes especially well; men with round faces can wear it too if they add height on top to elongate the profile. Styling technique: part the sides and gather the top section into a secure mid-to-high ponytail or loose bun, leaving length to fall over the shoulders. For a defined temple-to-crown pattern, maintain clean parting lines and regularly retwist the root section. Tools needed: clippers for the undercut, rat-tail comb, elastic bands or small ties, dread crochet hook (for tightening), and hair clips. Products required: residue-free clarifying shampoo, light locking gel or aloe-based moisturizer, natural oil (jojoba/argan) for scalp health, and a small amount of dread wax only if needed. Difficulty level: medium — forming and maintaining mature locs takes time; daily styling is straightforward once established. Maintenance tips: wash locs 1–2 times weekly, retwist or interlock roots every 4–8 weeks, palm-roll to keep shape, trim the undercut every 2–4 weeks, and sleep on a satin scarf or pillowcase to reduce frizz and breakage.
Textured Freeform Dreadlocks / Locs with High Loose Top — Mens Natural Hairstyle
This textured freeform dreadlock look suits oval, oblong and diamond face shapes best, as the high loose top adds vertical balance while tapered locs frame the jaw. For round faces, keep the sides tighter and the top taller to elongate the profile. Styling technique: start with clean, stretched natural hair; section as desired for uniform locs or let them form organically for a freeform style. Methods include backcombing and palm-rolling for defined locs or interlocking/crochet for tighter roots. Tools needed: wide-tooth comb, 0.5–1.5 mm crochet hook (for maintenance only), rat-tail comb, soft hair ties, and bead/wrap tools for accessories. Recommended products: residue-free clarifying shampoo, lightweight leave-in moisturizer, jojoba or grapeseed oil for scalp, and a light locking gel for retwists if preferred. Difficulty level: moderate to high initially (requires technique and time), then low for daily styling. Maintenance tips: wash every 1–2 weeks with residue-free products, separate roots to prevent conjoining, palm-roll or lightly crochet new growth every 4–8 weeks depending on method, sleep on a satin bonnet, and avoid heavy waxes to keep locs healthy and breathable.
Long Textured Dreadlocks with Beads and Wraps — Mens Dreadlock Style
This long, textured dreadlock look suits men with oval, oblong, and square face shapes especially well — the length and vertical lines elongate the face, while side detailing or slight undercuts can flatter heart and round faces. Achieve the style by sectioning hair into even parts, creating locks with a backcombing or two‑strand twist method, then palm‑rolling and securing new growth at the roots. Add beads and wrapped thread for personal detail and weight distribution. Tools needed: rat‑tail comb, sectioning clips, crochet hook (0.5–1.0 mm), interlocking tool (optional), rubber bands, and thin wrapping cord or beads. Recommended products: residue‑free clarifying shampoo, light locking gel or sea‑salt spray (sparingly), scalp oil (jojoba or tea tree blend), and a microfiber towel. Difficulty level: medium to high initially — forming tight, even locks takes time and practice; daily styling is simple. Maintenance tips: wash every 1–2 weeks and dry completely, palm‑roll after washes, retwist or interlock roots every 4–8 weeks, avoid heavy wax buildup, and sleep on a silk/satin scarf to reduce frizz and preserve wraps.
High Dreadlock Bun with Tapered Undercut — Mens Natural Locs Style
This high dreadlock bun with a tapered undercut suits oval, diamond, and rectangular face shapes particularly well, and it can also slim round faces by adding vertical height. To style: start with clean, dry locs; gather them at the crown and secure with a strong elastic or loc band, then wrap or tuck loose ends into a neat bun. Ask a barber for a gradual tapered undercut or skin fade on the sides to keep the look modern and low-profile. Tools needed: wide-tooth comb, rat-tail comb for parting, sturdy hair ties/loc bands, a small crochet hook for tightening, and clippers for touch-ups. Recommended products: residue-free shampoo, lightweight locking cream or gel for retwisting, natural oils (jojoba or coconut) to hydrate the scalp, and a light holding spray or loc sheen. Difficulty level: moderate — the bun is easy to assemble daily, but the undercut and loc maintenance require professional visits. Maintenance tips: wash every 1–2 weeks, retwist or palm-roll every 4–8 weeks, moisturize regularly to prevent breakage, sleep with a satin scarf, and get the fade refreshed every 2–4 weeks to preserve the clean silhouette.
High Bun Dreadlocks with Shaved Sides — Mens Dread Style
This high bun dreadlocks look with sculpted side parting and shaved sides flatters oval, oblong, diamond and heart-shaped faces by adding height and definition; round faces can benefit from the vertical lift to elongate proportions. Best suited to coarse, tightly coiling hair (3C–4). To style: neatly part and gather mature locs at the crown, secure with a strong elastic or a wrap, and tuck or pin the ends into a compact bun. For tighter root definition you can interlock or retwist the new growth before styling. Tools: rat-tail comb for clean parts, small elastic bands, strong hairpins, a 0.5–1 mm crochet hook for loose hairs, and a diffuser if using heat. Products: residue-free clarifying shampoo, lightweight locking gel or mousse for retwists, scalp oil (jojoba or tea tree blend) and a light sea-salt spray for texture. Difficulty: intermediate — daily styling is quick but proper locking and maintenance require skill. Maintenance tips: wash every 1–2 weeks with residue-free products, retwist or interlock roots every 4–8 weeks, palm-roll loose strands monthly, avoid heavy waxes, and sleep on a silk/satin scarf to reduce frizz and preserve shape.
Textured High Dreadlock Bun with Tapered Sides
This look pairs medium-to-long textured dreadlocks gathered into a high bun with tapered or undercut sides for a contemporary, masculine silhouette. Face-shape suitability: ideal for oval, diamond, and oblong faces; the height elongates round faces and the clean sides balance fuller cheeks. Styling technique: start with well-formed locs, gather them into a high ponytail, wrap into a loose bun and secure with a strong elastic or loc band; finish by tucking ends and inserting a few hairpins for hold. For cleaner lines, ask a barber for a soft taper or skin fade along the temples and neckline. Tools needed: sturdy hair ties/loc bands, bobby pins or loc pins, rat-tail comb for parting, crochet hook (for tightening), and a mirror. Products required: residue-free clarifying shampoo, hydrating leave-in spray, light natural oil (jojoba/argan) for shine, and a small amount of locking gel or cream for neat edges. Difficulty level: moderate — easy to style daily but requires regular maintenance. Maintenance tips: retwist or palm-roll every 4–8 weeks, deep-clean monthly with residue-free products, daily scalp moisturizing, sleep with a satin scarf, and avoid over-tightening to prevent tension at the hairline.
High Tied Dreadlocks with Textured Beard — Mens Natural Locs Style
This high-tied dreadlocks look pairs pulled-back locs with a natural, textured beard for a modern, masculine profile. Suitability: Works best for oval, oblong and round face shapes because the height elongates the silhouette; it also complements square and heart shapes when sides are tapered to balance proportions. Styling technique: Gather clean, mature locs into a high ponytail or bun, smoothing only at the roots to avoid frizz. Use palm-rolling or a light retwist on new growth for definition, and shape the beard with a trim that follows the jawline. Tools needed: soft hair tie or satin-lined band, crochet hook for tightening, wide-tooth comb for maintenance, clippers or trimmers for side tapering. Products required: residue-free cleansing shampoo, lightweight locking cream or gel, leave-in moisturizing spray, natural oils (jojoba/tea tree) for scalp, and beard oil or balm. Difficulty level: Moderate — initial loc creation is advanced; daily tying is simple but maintenance requires periodic professional touch-ups. Maintenance tips: wash every 1–2 weeks, retwist or palm-roll new growth every 4–8 weeks, avoid overly tight ties to prevent traction, sleep on satin, and schedule regular loctician check-ins to keep locs healthy and neat.
High Bun Dreadlocks with Faded Undercut — Mens Top Knot & Natural Texture
This high bun dreadlock look with faded sides pairs textured volume on top with clean lines at the temples — a modern, versatile style for men. Face shape suitability: best for oval, oblong, square and diamond faces; the added height lengthens round faces while the undercut/fade sharpens broader jawlines. Styling technique: gather mature dreads at the crown, secure with a strong elastic or soft cord, then wrap and tuck the lengths into a loose bun; leave a few dread ends free for a relaxed finish. For the contrast, ask a barber for a low or skin fade at the sides. Tools needed: sturdy hair ties or rubber loops, small bobby pins, a fine comb/rat-tail for parting, clippers for fades, and a crochet hook for tidy-ups. Products required: residue-free clarifying shampoo, light locking or aloe-based gel for retwists, natural oils (jojoba/argan) for scalp hydration, and a lightweight leave-in spray. Difficulty level: intermediate — the bun is simple but creating/maintaining dreads and fades takes skill and time. Maintenance tips: retwist or palm-roll every 4–8 weeks, wash every 1–2 weeks, avoid heavy waxes, protect hair at night with a satin wrap, refresh the fade every 3–6 weeks, and keep beard grooming proportional to the hairstyle.
Textured Dreadlock High Bun for Men — Loose Locs with Tapered Sides
A modern, wearable look that gathers medium-to-long dreadlocks into a high, textured bun while keeping the sides tapered for clean lines. Suits oval, square, and diamond face shapes particularly well; the added height lengthens round faces and the tapered sides keep longer faces balanced. To style: start with clean, dry locs, gather hair at the crown, secure with a strong elastic or loc band, then wrap and pin individual locs to create a loose, voluminous bun. For neater parting and control, refresh roots with palm-rolling or a light interlocking session. Tools: strong elastic/loc band, small bobby pins or hairpins, crochet hook (for tightening), rat-tail comb for parting, microfiber towel. Products: residue-free clarifying shampoo, lightweight leave-in moisturizer, natural oil (jojoba or grapeseed) for sheen, and a small amount of locking gel only if needed. Difficulty: medium — basic bun is easy, but creating tidy parts and maintaining loc health requires skill. Maintenance tips: retwist or interlock every 4–8 weeks, wash with residue-free products, sleep on a satin/silk scarf, avoid heavy waxes, and trim or tidy loose hairs as needed.
Tapered Undercut with Long Dreadlocks — Mens Natural Loc Style
A versatile look that pairs long, textured dreadlocks with a clean tapered undercut. Best suited to oval, square and heart-shaped faces, this style lengthens the profile and balances broader jawlines; men with round faces can adapt it by keeping more height on top and tighter sides. To create it, section hair into even parts, form locs using palm-rolling or two-strand twisting, and secure new growth with small rubber bands before palm-rolling or using a fine crochet hook to tighten. Finish with a professional tapered clipper cut around the temples and nape for contrast. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, crochet hook (0.5–1.0 mm), palm roller and clippers for the taper. Recommended products: residue-free clarifying shampoo, light leave-in conditioner, a small amount of locking gel or cream (used sparingly), and a lightweight oil (jojoba or argan) for moisture. Difficulty: medium to high initially — forming neat, durable locs takes time; maintenance: retwist or interlock every 4–8 weeks, wash 1–2 times weekly, palm-roll between washes, sleep on a satin pillowcase or bonnet, and schedule barber touch-ups for the taper to keep the silhouette sharp.
High Top Knot with Long Dreadlocks and Tapered Sides
This high top knot with long locs and tapered sides suits men with oval, square, diamond or oblong face shapes—men with round faces can also wear it to add vertical height and elongate the profile. To style, gather clean, mature locs at the crown, secure with a strong elastic or loc band, then wrap several locs around the base to form a neat bun while leaving a few locs to fall for a relaxed look. Use a razor or clippers to maintain the tapered sides and a trimmer to sharpen the hairline. Tools needed: sturdy hair ties/loc bands, clippers with guards, rat-tail comb for parting, small crochet hook for tightening, and a soft brush for edges. Required products: residue-free shampoo for locs, light leave-in moisturizer, natural oil (jojoba or coconut) for the scalp, and a small amount of locking cream or balm for tidy roots. Difficulty: moderate—creating and maintaining locs is advanced, but daily styling into a bun is simple. Maintenance tips: retwist or re-tighten roots every 4–8 weeks, shampoo every 1–2 weeks, oil the scalp regularly, sleep on a silk/satin scarf, and visit a loctician periodically for professional upkeep.
High Dreadlock Bun with Tapered Sides — Mens Natural Locs Style
This high dreadlock bun with tapered sides is a versatile look that flatters oval, oblong and diamond face shapes by adding height and elongating the profile; it also softens strong jawlines for square faces. To style, gather clean, dry locs at the crown, secure with a strong fabric hair tie, then wrap and pin the ends into a loose bun, leaving a few face-framing locs out for texture. For a sharper finish, add a low taper or fade at the sides. Tools needed: wide-tooth comb, soft-bristle brush for edges, fabric hair ties or loc bands, long hair pins, and a small crochet hook for tidy retwists. Products required: lightweight leave-in conditioner, moisturizing oil (jojoba or grapeseed), loc cream or gel for control, and a clarifying shampoo for periodic washes. Difficulty level: moderate — basic tying is simple but neat parting and retwisting require practice or a visit to a loctician. Maintenance tips: sleep on a satin scarf/bonnet, retwist or palm-roll new growth every 4–6 weeks, deep-moisturize weekly, avoid heavy wax buildup, and keep tension light to protect edges.
Textured High Dreadlock Bun with Tapered Sides — Mens Natural Hair
This high dreadlock bun with textured loose edges is ideal for men looking to showcase natural locs while keeping a clean profile. Face-shape suitability: works best on oval, oblong, diamond, and heart-shaped faces and flatters strong jawlines; men with round faces can add height at the crown to elongate the face while those with very long faces should wear a slightly lower or looser bun to avoid over-lengthening. Styling technique: gather mature locs into a high pony, secure with a strong elastic or loc tie, wrap remaining length into a bun and pin or tuck ends; pull a few front locks loose for a lived-in, textured look. Tools needed: wide-tooth comb, rat-tail comb for parting, strong elastic/loc ties, small hair pins or rubber bands, crochet hook for tidying. Products required: residue-free clarifying shampoo, lightweight natural oil (jojoba or argan), a light locking cream or gel for base retwists, and a matte pomade for edges if desired. Difficulty level: moderate—simple to put up but requires established locs and some technique. Maintenance tips: retwist roots every 4–8 weeks, deep-clean monthly, oil the scalp regularly, sleep on a satin scarf, avoid heavy waxes to prevent buildup, and see a loctician for thinning or reshaping.
Textured High Dread Bun — Mens Dreadlocks Style
Face shape suitability: This high, textured dread bun flatters oval, oblong, square and diamond faces and helps visually lengthen round faces; men with heart-shaped faces should leave a few face-framing locs to balance the forehead. Styling technique: Begin with clean, dry locs. Gather hair into a high pony and secure with a sturdy elastic or cloth scrunchie, then twist the pony into a loose bun and wrap remaining locs around the base. Tuck ends under and secure with a second elastic or small hairpins; pull a few locs free for a relaxed, modern look. Tools needed: wide-tooth comb, spray bottle, microfiber towel, strong elastic/scrunchie, small rubber bands, hair clips and a crochet/latch hook for tightening or repairing locs. Products required: residue-free clarifying shampoo, light leave-in moisturiser for locs, a sparing amount of locking gel/cream if needed, jojoba or tea-tree oil for scalp health, and an anti-frizz spray—avoid heavy waxes that cause buildup. Difficulty level: Moderate — putting the bun together is simple, but proper dread maintenance takes skill. Maintenance tips: retwist or interlock roots every 4–8 weeks, deep-clean monthly, separate conjoined locs, moisturise the scalp weekly, sleep on a satin cap or pillowcase, and avoid overly tight styles to prevent traction damage.
Textured Medium-Length Dreadlocks (Locs) for Men — Natural Top Volume
This medium-length, textured dreadlock style suits oval, square and oblong faces particularly well — the height on top elongates the face while the natural taper at the hairline softens strong jawlines. Men with round faces should keep the sides tighter to avoid added width. To create or maintain this look, section hair into even parts, use palm‑rolling or two‑strand twists for new locs, and employ a small crochet hook to tidy loose fibers on mature locs. Tools needed: rat‑tail comb for sectioning, 0.5–1.5 mm crochet hook, hair ties/clips, and a spray bottle. Recommended products: residue‑free, sulfate‑free cleansing shampoo, lightweight leave‑in moisturizer, natural oils (jojoba or grapeseed) for shine, and a light locking cream or gel for root control. Difficulty: moderate — initial forming can be time consuming; maintenance is straightforward. Maintenance tips: wash every 1–2 weeks, retwist or palm‑roll roots every 4–8 weeks depending on new growth, separate locs regularly to prevent conjoining, avoid heavy waxes to prevent buildup, sleep on a satin bonnet, and trim or interlock as needed to keep a clean silhouette.
Textured Dreadlock Top Knot with Undercut and Side Design Lines
A modern, textured dreadlock top knot paired with a low undercut and subtle shaved design lines. Face-shape suitability: works especially well for round and oval faces because the added height elongates the profile; square faces benefit from the balance the beard and top volume provide; men with longer faces should opt for a lower bun or fuller sides to avoid over‑elongation. Styling technique: gather clean, matured locs into a high or mid-level bun and secure with a strong hair tie; define side lines with a clipper or visit a barber for a crisp design; refresh loose ends with palm-rolling or interlocking as needed. Tools needed: clippers (for undercut/design), comb, strong elastic bands, small crochet hook for tightening, satin scarf for night. Products required: residue-free clarifying shampoo, lightweight natural oil (jojoba or almond) for scalp, loc cream or locking gel sparingly; avoid heavy waxes. Difficulty level: medium — easy daily styling but requires professional setup and periodic maintenance. Maintenance tips: retwist or interlock every 4–8 weeks, wash every 1–2 weeks, moisturize scalp regularly, protect at night, and trim the undercut to keep lines sharp.
Mens High-Top Dreadlocks — Natural Textured Locks for Modern Men
This high-top dreadlock look pairs natural texture with controlled volume, flattering a wide range of face shapes. Best suited to oval and square faces; round faces benefit from added height to elongate the profile, while longer faces should keep sides tapered to avoid further lengthening. To create it: section hair into even parts, start locs with two-strand twists or palm-rolling for thicker hair, use interlocking at the roots for extra hold, and tidy mature locs with a small crochet hook. Tools needed: wide-tooth comb, sectioning clips, spray bottle, palm or locking tool, small crochet hook, and a microfiber towel. Recommended products: residue-free clarifying shampoo, lightweight leave-in moisturizer, natural oils (jojoba or coconut) for the scalp, and a minimal holding cream or gel for new growth — avoid heavy waxes or butters. Difficulty: intermediate for initial formation and shaping; easy daily styling. Maintenance tips: wash every 1–2 weeks, retwist or repair loose roots every 4–8 weeks, regularly separate fused locs, moisturize scalp weekly, sleep on a satin scarf/pillowcase, and visit a specialist barber for clean tapered sides and professional upkeep.
Dreadlock Top Knot with Skin Fade — Modern Mens Undercut Dreads
This look pairs long, textured dreadlocks gathered into a top knot with a clean skin fade on the sides — a great contemporary option for men who want structure with natural texture. Best suited to oval, oblong, diamond, and heart face shapes (the height up top lengthens the profile); round faces can wear it by keeping more height and a tighter fade to create definition. Styling technique: gather mature dreads at the crown and secure with a strong elastic or small bun; palm-roll or use a crochet hook to tidy loose hairs at the roots. Tools needed: clippers and guards for the fade, small elastic bands, crochet hook or dreadlock tool, wide-tooth comb for parting, microfiber towel. Products required: residue-free (sulfate-free) shampoo, lightweight locking gel or interlocking cream for root maintenance, natural oils (jojoba or coconut) for scalp and dread hydration, and beard oil. Difficulty: moderate — requires a skilled barber for the initial fade and periodic interlocking, but daily styling is straightforward. Maintenance tips: wash every 1–2 weeks, fully dry after washing, retwist or interlock every 4–8 weeks, sleep on a satin/silk scarf, and schedule trims/fade touch-ups every 3–6 weeks to keep the silhouette sharp.
Mens Textured Dreadlocks Pulled-Back Ponytail
Suitable for oval, rectangular and heart-shaped faces, textured pulled-back dreadlocks add height and definition while framing the jaw. For round faces, wear a higher pony or create tapered sides to elongate the profile. Styling technique: gather mature locs into a low or high ponytail or loose bun and leave a few thinner locs to frame the face; secure with a fabric-covered elastic or a secure wrap-and-knot method to avoid slippage. Use a small crochet hook or interlocking tool to tidy stray hairs and palm-roll new growth for a neat root line. Tools needed: sturdy elastic ties, a 0.5–1.0 mm crochet hook (for maintenance), spray bottle, microfiber towel and a diffuser if you need quicker drying. Products required: residue-free clarifying shampoo, lightweight natural oil (jojoba or grapeseed) for scalp moisture, a locking gel or setting mousse for retwists, and a light leave-in moisturizing spray. Difficulty level: intermediate — styling is straightforward but creating and maintaining healthy locs takes attention and time. Maintenance tips: wash every 1–2 weeks, retwist or interlock every 4–8 weeks, moisturize roots regularly, sleep on a satin scarf or bonnet to reduce frizz, avoid heavy wax buildup, and consult a loctician for major shaping or repairs.
Textured Wrapped Dreadlocks with Sculpted Undercut — Mens Dread Style
This look pairs medium-to-thick dreadlocks wrapped with natural fiber or thread and a sculpted undercut — ideal for oval, diamond, and heart-shaped faces, and excellent for adding height to round faces. Styling technique: section the hair into even parts, create locs by backcombing or palm-rolling (or install pre-made extensions), secure and tighten with a fine crochet hook, then wrap selected locks with yarn or twine and gather the top into a bun or half-up style. For the undercut, use clippers and a barber to carve clean lines or geometric designs. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, clippers, crochet hook (0.5–1.0 mm), hair ties, and wrapping cord. Recommended products: residue-free dread shampoo, light locking gel for initial setting, anti-itch scalp oil, and a dry shampoo for in-between washes; avoid heavy wax buildup. Difficulty: advanced — professional installation and periodic salon touch-ups are advised. Maintenance tips: wash every 1–2 weeks with residue-free cleanser, palm-roll or crochet loose hairs monthly, rewrap yarn as needed, protect with a silk scarf at night, and schedule edge/undercut maintenance every 4–8 weeks.
High Top Dreadlocks for Men — Textured Locs with Beard-Friendly Finish
This high-top dreadlock style suits oval, diamond, heart and longer face shapes particularly well — the vertical volume elongates round faces and balances wider jawlines when paired with a trimmed beard. To create it, gather mature or formed locs into a high pony or bun, securing with fabric-covered bands; leave several front locs loose for a relaxed, asymmetrical fringe. For new locs, use palm-rolling or interlocking with a small crochet hook to define each lock before arranging them into the topknot. Tools: wide-tooth comb (for detangling), rat-tail comb, crochet/latch hook, soft bands, satin scarf. Products: residue-free clarifying shampoo, light locking gel or cream, jojoba or castor oil for scalp moisture, and occasional leave-in conditioner. Difficulty: moderate — basic upkeep is straightforward but initial locking and professional installs are time-consuming. Maintenance tips: wash every 1–2 weeks with gentle shampoos, oil the scalp sparsely, separate roots after washing to prevent conjoining, retwist or crochet loose hairs every 4–8 weeks, and sleep on satin to reduce frizz. Avoid over-tightening to protect edges and preserve hairline.
High Tied Dreadlocks with Faded Sides — Mens Natural Locs Style
This high-tied dreadlocks look with faded sides is a modern, versatile style that adds height and clean contrast. Face-shape suitability: ideal for oval, oblong and diamond faces; the added top volume and tapered sides also help lengthen round faces. For strong square jaws, soften the look by leaving a few front locs loose. Styling technique: start with mature locs or well-formed twists. Ask a barber for a low-to-mid fade or undercut on the sides. Gather locs high at the crown and secure with a strong elastic; wrap a loc around the band to conceal it for a polished finish. Tools needed: clippers (for the fade), rat-tail comb, strong elastic bands or cuff, hairpins/clips, microfiber towel and satin scarf for sleep. Products required: residue-free clarifying shampoo, lightweight leave-in or loc moisturizer, natural oil (jojoba/argan), loc gel or locking cream for retwists and a light matte paste for edges. Difficulty level: moderate — barber skill required for the fade; daily tying is easy. Maintenance tips: wash every 1–2 weeks, retwist/maintenance every 4–8 weeks, moisturize scalp regularly, protect hair at night with a satin scarf, and avoid heavy wax buildup to keep locs healthy.
High-Top Dreadlock Bun with Undercut — Mens Dreads Top Knot
This high-top dreadlock bun with a faded undercut suits men who want bold, contemporary texture. Face-shape suitability: added height flatters round and oval faces by elongating proportions, and the clean sides balance square or diamond jaws. Styling technique: gather mature locks to the crown, secure with a heavy-duty elastic, wrap into a loose bun or top knot, and leave a few dreads to fall forward for framing. Tidy flyaways and tighten sparse areas with a small crochet hook. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, dreadlock crochet hook, strong elastics or bands, clippers/trimmer for the fade, and a hairdryer with diffuser on low. Products required: residue-free clarifying shampoo, light locking gel or retwisting solution, lightweight oils (jojoba or argan) to condition, and a light matte paste for edges if desired. Difficulty level: medium to high — forming and maintaining neat locs and a precise undercut often requires a loctician, while daily styling is straightforward. Maintenance tips: wash every 1–2 weeks, palm-roll or crochet loose dreads, retighten roots every 4–8 weeks, sleep with a satin scarf, and trim the fade monthly.
Textured Dreadlock High Bun with Tapered Sides — Mens Natural Hairstyle
This textured dreadlock high bun with tapered sides suits oval, square, rectangular and heart-shaped faces — it adds height and length, making it especially flattering for round faces. Styling technique: start with mature, medium-to-long dreads. Gather them at the crown, secure with a strong elastic or band, then wrap and tuck loose ends to create a balanced bun; use a few small clips or a second band for extra hold. For neater edges, lightly palm-roll or retwist the front locs. Tools needed: wide-tooth comb, dread hook/loop tool, sturdy hair bands, clips, and a blow-dryer with diffuser (low heat) for shaping. Products required: residue-free clarifying shampoo, moisturizing conditioner or co-wash, leave-in moisturizer, light natural oil (jojoba or argan) and a light locking gel or cream if you retwist. Difficulty level: moderate — formation takes time; daily styling is quick once locs are established. Maintenance tips: wash every 1–2 weeks, deep-condition occasionally, retwist or palm-roll every 4–8 weeks as needed, trim tapered sides every 2–4 weeks for a sharp silhouette, and sleep on a satin pillowcase or bonnet to reduce frizz and preserve shape.
Textured Dreadlocks with Shaved Undercut and High Pony
This look pairs medium-to-thick dreadlocks pulled into a high pony with a tapered shaved undercut and subtle curved line designs — a modern, structured style that balances texture and precision. Best suited for oval, oblong, diamond and heart face shapes; men with round or square faces can also wear it by increasing height on top and keeping the undercut tight to elongate the profile. Create the shape by having a barber clip the sides to a short taper (guards 0.5–3) and etch the design with a detail trimmer. Section and gather the locs into a high or half pony using durable loc ties or an elastic; use a crochet hook to tidy stray hairs and maintain neat parting. Tools: professional clippers, detail trimmer, rat-tail comb, loc bands, crochet hook and diffuser (optional). Products: residue-free shampoo, lightweight leave-in conditioner, natural oil (jojoba or coconut), light loc gel or locking cream (sparingly) and a scalp serum. Difficulty: intermediate — requires a barber for the cut/design and regular at-home upkeep. Maintenance: retwist every 4–8 weeks, shampoo biweekly, daily moisturizing sprays, sleep on a satin scarf, and refresh the undercut every 2–6 weeks to keep the lines crisp.
Dreadlock Top Knot with Tapered Sides — Mens Natural Textured Style
This textured dreadlock top knot is versatile and modern — well suited to oval, oblong and square faces and a great option for round faces because the height adds length. It works best with medium-to-coarse curl patterns and established locs; younger or forming dreads require extra maintenance. To style, gather clean, dry locs at the crown, secure with a strong elastic or fabric band, then wrap remaining lengths into a loose bun or half-knot for a relaxed silhouette. Use a crochet hook or latch tool for tidy roots and to pull stray hairs into locks, and separate locs to avoid conjoining. Tools needed: elastic bands, duckbill clips, small crochet hook (0.5–1 mm), wide-tooth comb for initial sectioning. Products: residue-free clarifying shampoo, lightweight scalp oil (jojoba/tea tree), optional locking gel for new growth and a small amount of beeswax or dread balm for shaping. Difficulty: medium — forming dreads is time-intensive; daily styling is quick. Maintenance tips: retwist or palm-roll roots every 4–8 weeks, wash biweekly with residue-free shampoo, deep-oil the scalp weekly, separate locs after washing, and sleep on a satin scarf to reduce frizz. Professional touch-ups every 2–3 months keep the tapered sides and part lines crisp.
Long Textured Dreadlocks with Accents — Mens Natural Locs
This long, textured dreadlock style with wrapped accents and beads suits oval, square, and heart-shaped faces especially well — it adds vertical length and angular contrast that flatters strong jawlines. For round faces, ask your stylist for tapered sides or layered lengths to avoid extra bulk. Styling technique: start from a clean, fully dry base; section hair into consistent parts, then form locs using palm-rolling or interlocking for a tighter look, or allow freeform maturation for a looser texture. Add wraps or wooden beads at the mid-shaft or ends for visual interest and secure heavier accents with small elastics. Tools needed: wide-tooth comb, rat-tail comb for parts, sectioning clips, microfiber towel, 0.5–1 mm crochet hook and/or interlocking tool, and satin scarf for sleep. Recommended products: residue-free clarifying shampoo, light leave-in or spray moisturizer, jojoba or argan oil for the scalp, and a small amount of water-based locking balm if needed (avoid heavy waxes). Difficulty: intermediate to advanced — initial formation and tidy maintenance take time. Maintenance tips: retwist or tidy every 4–8 weeks, deep-clean monthly, daily scalp moisturizing, palm-roll between appointments, sleep on satin, and replace or re-secure accessories to prevent breakage.
Mens High Freeform Dreadlocks with Natural Taper
This textured freeform dreadlock look with a subtle tapered side is versatile and modern. Best suited for oval, oblong and triangular face shapes, the height and volume on top also help elongate round faces; a softer taper and longer front locks balance strong square jaws. To create it, section hair loosely or allow natural parting for freeform locs, then form starter locs with two-strand twists or palm-rolling. Use a small crochet hook or interlocking tool to tighten stubborn roots and shape individual locks. Tools needed: wide-tooth comb, clips, 0.5–0.75 mm crochet hook, hair ties and scissors for occasional trimming. Recommended products: residue-free clarifying shampoo, lightweight leave-in conditioner, small amount of locking cream or gel for control, and natural oils (jojoba or grapeseed) for scalp health. Difficulty: medium — initial setup takes time and skill; maintenance is low-to-moderate. Maintenance tips: wash every 1–2 weeks, separate conjoined locks after washing, palm-roll or interlock monthly, sleep on a satin scarf or pillowcase, and visit a barber for a tidy tapered fade every 4–8 weeks. Expect full maturation in 6–12 months.
Textured Locs High Bun with Tapered Sides — Mens Dreadlock Style
A modern, versatile look that gathers textured locs into a high bun while keeping the sides tapered for clean contrast. Best suited to oval, oblong, and diamond face shapes — the height elongates shorter faces and the tapered sides add definition for fuller faces. To style: start with clean, dry locs; use a clip‑part to section and trim or fade the sides with clippers to desired length; gather the remaining locs at the crown and secure with a strong loc band or elastic, arranging volume for balance. Tools needed: clippers with guards, rat‑tail comb for parting, strong loc bands or elastic, small crochet hook for tightening, and sectioning clips. Products required: residue‑free shampoo, lightweight leave‑in conditioner, scalp oil (jojoba or tea tree), and a small amount of locking gel or cream for edge control. Difficulty level: moderate — professional tapering and initial retwisting recommended, daily upkeep is simple. Maintenance tips: retwist or interlock every 4–8 weeks, wash every 1–2 weeks, moisturize scalp regularly, sleep with a silk/satin wrap, and avoid heavy waxes to prevent buildup.
Textured Dreadlock Man Bun with Tapered Sides — Mens Hairstyle
This textured dreadlock man bun combines volume on top with tapered sides for a versatile, modern look. It flatters oval and oblong faces naturally, adds perceived length to round faces, and helps soften strong jawlines on square faces. For heart-shaped faces, keep a few loose locks at the temples to balance the forehead. Styling technique: gather mature dreadlocks into a high or mid-level bun or ponytail, secure with a strong elastic or loop, and pull a few strands loose for a relaxed, lived-in finish. Ask a barber for a clean tapered or faded side to maintain contrast. Tools needed: strong hair ties/loop ties, a crochet needle or dread tightening tool for root control, clippers or trimmer for side maintenance, and bobby pins for flyaways. Products required: residue-free cleansing shampoo, lightweight leave-in moisturizer or light oil (jojoba/argan), occasional locking cream if needed, and a matte paste for shaping. Difficulty level: moderate — requires established locs and routine barber visits. Maintenance tips: retwist or tighten roots every 4–8 weeks, wash with residue-free shampoo every 1–2 weeks, moisturize scalp regularly, sleep with a satin cap, and keep the tapered sides trimmed every 3–6 weeks.
Dreadlocks are a long-term style commitment but one that rewards thoughtful choices and consistent care. Pick the loc size and length that fit your face, lifestyle and patience level — thicker locs need less frequent twisting, finer locs mature faster but require more maintenance. Keep a simple routine: cleanse with residue-free shampoo, moisturize the scalp, palm-roll or retwist as needed, protect hair at night and visit a trusted loctician for major adjustments. Use lightweight oils and avoid heavy waxes that cause buildup. If you work in a conservative environment, opt for neater, tapered styles and shorter lengths. Study the 32 images I’ve included for real-world inspiration, then adapt the techniques to your hair type. With the right start and steady upkeep, dreadlocks can be a refined, confident signature look.
