Not sure what the difference is between merino wool and synthetic dreadlocks?
We know you have questions, and we're here to help! We've collected the answers to the most frequently asked questions about our extra soft merino wool dreadlocks.
Merino wool is known for its natural softness, breathability and hypoallergenic properties. Unlike many other wool types, it is gentle on the skin and does not cause itching, making it a perfect choice for long-term wear.
We also cover how to care for your merino wool dreadlocks to keep them as comfortable and beautiful as when you first put them on.

Want to know more?
Dive into the FAQs below to find all the answers you need!
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  • ABOUT MERINO WOOL DREADS
  • INSTALLATION & WEARING
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  •  SHIPPING & ORDERS

ABOUT MERINO WOOL DREADS

Boholucydreads merino wool dreadlocks are unique because they offer an extra soft, lightweight, and sensitive skin-friendly feeling. Unlike synthetic options, which can be stiff, heavy, or itchy, we use extra soft, mulesing-free merino wool for a comfortable and irritation-free experience.

Their natural texture makes our dreadlock extensions incredibly easy to style, while their breathable and insulating properties keep you warm in winter and cool in summer. Plus, they provide a stand-out look - so you can express your individuality with confidence.

If you’ve ever struggled with synthetic dreads that feel heavy or itchy, it’s time to discover the beauty of extra-soft merino wool.

When choosing between wool and synthetic dreads, each has its advantages. Merino wool dreads stand out for their extra soft, skin-friendly texture, making them a cozy and comfortable choice, especially for sensitive scalps. Their natural, breathable fibers help prevent discomfort and sweating, and they remain lightweight even during all-day wear. Plus, they are flexible and easy to style, requiring minimal upkeep. However, they do become heavier when wet and take longer to dry.

On the other hand, synthetic dreads often appear more natural-looking. They are also lighter when wet and dry faster. However, they can feel rough or itchy, are generally less breathable, and may cause scalp irritation over time. Their stiffer texture can make styling more challenging, and they often require frequent maintenance to keep their appearance fresh.

No, merino wool dreadlocks from Boholucydreads do not cause itching or irritation . Unlike coarser wool dreadlocks, which can be itchy and irritate your scalp, extra-soft merino wool is known for its fine, smooth fibers that are gentle even on sensitive scalps

Compared to synthetic dreadlocks, which can be stiff and uncomfortable, merino wool is lightweight, breathable, and naturally hypoallergenic, making it a comfortable choice for all-day wear. Plus, since our wool is mulesing-free, it ensures both ethical sourcing and premium softness.

No, Boholucydreads’ merino wool dreadlocks do not shed. Our dreads are handcrafted from premium quality, soft/extra soft merino wool, which is carefully felted to ensure durability and a long-lasting shape. Unlike low-quality wool extensions that may shed fibers, our felting technique locks the wool securely in place.

During the felting process, the scales on the surface of the wool fibers become stuck together, this process is irreversible. The wool dreads are properly felted, so the wool fibers cannot separate.

With regular wear, you might notice some slight fuzziness over time, but this is natural and can be easily smoothed out by daily maintance. Proper care ensures your wool dreads stay neat and beautiful for a long time!

No, Boholucydreads’ merino wool dreadlocks are not too hot in summer! Merino wool is a breathable and temperature-regulating natural fiber, meaning it helps keep you warm in winter and cool in summer. Unlike synthetic materials, which can trap heat and feel heavy, merino wool allows air to circulate, preventing overheating.

We wear them ourselves even in the hottest months, and where we live, summer temperatures reach 30-40°C (86-104°F)! Thanks to the lightweight, airy feel of merino wool, they remain comfortable even in extreme heat.

If you're unsure, try a partial install with just 10-20 dreads to see how lightweight and breathable they feel before going for a full set. You can also style them into an updo, bun, or ponytail.

No, the colors of Boholucydreads’ merino wool dreadlocks do not fade easily. Most of our dreadlock extensions are crafted from mill-dyed soft/extra soft, mulesing-free merino wool. These are free of chemicals and comply with the OEKO TEX 100 and GOTS requirements.

For our hand-dyed sets, we use high-quality, professional-grade wool dyes that deeply penetrate the merino wool fibers, ensuring long-lasting, vibrant colors.

To keep them looking fresh, we recommend gentle washing and avoiding harsh chemicals. With proper care, your wool dreadlocks will stay as beautiful as the day you got them!

No, we do not make dreads with clip-ins or ponytails.

Our wool dreadlocks are designed for braid-in installation, which ensures a secure, natural look and comfortable wear. If you're looking for a temporary or partial look, you can try a partial install with 10-20 wool dreads to add volume and style without a full set.

Yes, we do offer slightly wavy dreadlocks, but it depends on the type of merino wool used.

Most of our sets are made from extra fine merino wool, which has a smooth surface and is not suitable for creating wavy dreadlocks. This wool is incredibly soft, making it perfect for those who has sensitive skin.

However, we also have sets made from fine merino wool, which has a naturally slightly wavy texture. If you’re looking for dreads with a bit more texture, these are a great option!

☑️ Single ended wool dreads (SE) end in a loop on one end, which is used for braiding it into your hair. Perfect for hairline and sensitive parts of your scalp.
☑️ Double ended (DE) wool dread is a long dread, which is installed folded in half. As the name also suggests, this way it has two ends. Adds more volume.
👉 Read more here

INSTALLATION & WEARING

Installing a wool dreadlock is a simple braiding method that won't damage your natural hair. You divide your hair into sections, braid each section and then secure the braid with a rubber band.

You can find the step-by-step video here in our blog post. It contains everything you need to know to install your dreadlock extensions in the easiest way possible!

Yes, you can install them yourself! We show the simplest installation technique in our blog, so you can braid them in on your own.

However, it's important to ensure that the installation is neither too tight nor too loose. If they are too tight, they can cause headaches, itching, or even hair loss over time. If they are too loose, they may not stay secure.

If you're unsure about the process, we highly recommend visiting a local loctitian for professional installation to ensure a comfortable and long-lasting result.

No, wool dreadlocks will not damage your natural hair if installed and maintained properly.

However, to keep your hair healthy:

  • Make sure the installation is not too tight, as excessive tension can cause headaches, itching, or even hair loss over time.
  • Give your scalp regular breaks between installs to prevent strain.
  • Moisturize your scalp as needed.

  • When installed and removed correctly, wool dreads protect your hair by reducing daily styling stress. If you’re unsure about the process, consider visiting a professional loctitian for installation.

    You can wear wool dreadlocks for 3 weeks to 2 months, depending on several factors:

  • Installation quality – A well-secured braid-in will last longer.
  • Hair growth rate – Faster-growing hair may require earlier reinstallation.
  • Root maintenance – If the braiding loosens up at the roots, your hair will start matting if you leave the locks in for too long. This can make it very difficult to untangle after removing the dreadlocks.

  • Regularly checking your scalp and hair condition will help you decide when it's time for a refresh!

    Our merino wool dreadlocks are highly durable and can be reinstalled multiple times, depending on how well they are cared for. With proper maintenance, they can last for years!
    How many times can they be reinstalled?

  • There’s no set limit—many customers reuse their sets multiple times.
  • To extend their lifespan, store and care for them properly.

  • How durable are they?
  • Wool is a strong yet soft fiber that holds its shape well.
  • The felting process ensures that they remain firm but flexible without falling apart.
  • Over time, some natural softening and shortening may occur, but this doesn’t affect their wearability.

  • If you care for them well, your wool dreads will stay beautiful and ready to wear again and again!

    Yes! Here are some signs that it’s time to reinstall your wool dreadlocks:

  • Loose braids at the roots – If your natural hair has grown out and the braids have loosened, the dreads may not stay secure.

  • Matting near the scalp – If your hair starts tangling at the roots, it's best to remove the dreads before it becomes difficult to detangle.

  • Uneven or messy look – If some dreads are slipping out or the style feels less polished, a reinstall can refresh your look.

  • Discomfort or itching – If the dreads feel heavy or your scalp needs a break, taking them out and reinstalling later can help.

  • Checking your hair regularly ensures you keep your style looking fresh while keeping your natural hair healthy!

    The number of wool dreadlocks you need depends on the fullness and coverage you want:

  • Partial install (accent style): 10-20 dreads – Perfect for adding a pop of texture and color. You can mix them with your natural hair for a boho look or place them in specific sections like the sides or back.

  • Mohawk or shaved install: 30-40 dreads – Perfect for styles with shaved or undercut sections. This amount gives a voluminous mohawk effect.

  • Full-head install: 50-70 dreads – A complete transformation! This creates full coverage, making your dreads the centerpiece of your look. You can style them into buns, braids, or ponytails for endless versatility.

  • If you're unsure, check out our blog for a detailed guide on choosing the right amount!

    For a full-head install, you'll need 50-70 wool dreadlocks, depending on the thickness of your natural hair and the volume you want.
    Mixing DE and SE Dreads:
    We offer both double-ended (DE) and single-ended (SE) dreads, and you can mix them for a custom fit:

  • All DE dreads (50-60 pieces): DE dreads have two strands per piece, so they provide fuller coverage with fewer pieces.

  • All SE dreads (60-70 pieces): SE dreads attach to individual sections of hair, so you’ll need more for the same coverage.

  • Mix Set (40-50 DE + 20 SE): Use a mixed set if you prefer a natural effect or have a more sensitive scalp. Braid SE (single ended) wool dreads along the hairline and use DE (double ended) wool dreads on the rest of the hair for a thicker effect. This method makes the dreads more comfortable to wear, especially with a full set.

  • If you're unsure about the best set for you, check out our blog for more guidance!

    Not at all! One of the biggest advantages of merino wool dreads is how lightweight they are, especially compared to synthetic dreadlocks. Even a full set feels surprisingly comfortable to wear throughout the day.
    Merino wool is naturally soft and airy, so you won't experience the pulling sensation or tension on your scalp that often comes with heavier materials. This makes our wool dreads perfect for sensitive heads or first-time users, too.
    Once they’re braided in securely, you’ll probably forget you're even wearing them!

    MAINTENANCE & WASHING

    No, you don’t need to detox wool dreadlocks before installing them. Unlike synthetic dreads, our merino wool dreads are completely free from harmful chemicals and don’t require pre-washing.
    We use only pure water, and soap during the felting process—no chemical treatments. The wool itself is naturally clean and skin-friendly, making it safe to install straight out of the package.
    Every set comes with adetailed care guide.

    Unlike synthetic dreads, merino wool dreads require minimal maintenance and get better with wear! Wool is a self-cleaning, breathable, and moisture-wicking fiber, making it much easier to care for.
    ✔️ Wash only your scalp – Wool doesn’t trap odors like synthetic materials, so you don’t need to wash your dreadlocks often. We recommend washing them with cold or lukewarm water, gently squeeze in the shampoo, which does not contain conditioner, and do not rub. Then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
    ✔️ Avoid heavy hair products – Oils, waxes, and styling creams can build up and affect the texture of the wool.
    ✔️ Dry properly – Wool absorbs water, so if your wool dreads get wet, gently squeeze out excess moisture with a towel and let them dry completely. You can use a hair dryer at a low temperature.
    ✔️ Store carefully – When not in use, store them in a dry, breathable bag to preserve their texture and shape. Add a lavender sachet to repel moths and give your set a fresh scent.
    👉 Here’s our detailed care instructions

    Pilling is totally normal with wool dreadlocks, especially with with regular wear or from rubbing while you sleep. We make our sets using extra fine merino wool, which is known for being incredibly soft and non-itchy—perfect for sensitive skin! This is because the fibers are short and thin, and the scales on the fiber surface are tiny, so they don’t irritate the scalp.
    However, because of these shorter fibers, this type of wool tends to pill a bit faster. But don’t worry—it’s super easy to handle!
    You can remove pills by gently pulling them off by hand or using a lint remover or fabric shaver. We also recommend a simple trick: wet your hands and slide them along each dread a little more firmly. This helps catch and remove smaller pills quickly. For more stubborn ones, just pinch and tear them off gently.
    A quick check and tidy once or twice a week in front of a mirror is enough to keep them looking smooth and neat.With a little routine care, your set will stay fresh, beautiful, and pill-free for years to come.

    Yes, you can swim in pools or the ocean with wool dreads!
    However, we recommend rinsing them thoroughly with clean water afterward to remove chlorine, salt, or any other residues that could damage the wool over time.
    Keep in mind that wool dreadlocks become quite heavy when wet, so it’s a good idea to gently squeeze out excess water and allow them to air dry completely. You can speed up drying by using a hairdryer on low heat. If you plan on swimming often, wearing them in a bun or braid can help manage the weight.

    We only offer 100% merino wool dreads, so unfortunately, we don’t have a non-wool option.
    However, merino wool is extra-soft, skin-friendly, and naturally hypoallergenic compared to regular wool. It’s breathable, lightweight, and doesn’t cause the itchiness that coarse wool fibers can. Many people who are sensitive to standard wool find that they can comfortably wear our dreads.
    If you have a severe wool allergy, we recommend choosing a synthetic alternative. But if you’re unsure, you could try a small test with a few locks before committing to a full set.

    Yes, merino wool is considered hypoallergenic because its fibers are much finer and softer than regular wool. Unlike coarse wool, which can feel itchy and irritate sensitive skin, merino wool has a smooth surface that reduces discomfort.
    Additionally, merino wool is naturally resistant to dust mites, mold, and bacteria, which are common triggers for allergies. It also wicks moisture away, keeping your scalp dry and comfortable.
    If you're not sure if you have a wool allergy, we recommend trying a small set first to ensure comfort. However, many people who react to regular wool find merino wool completely wearable.

    Yes! Our wool dread sets arrive just as you see them in the product photos, including any beads, x-wrapped dreads, braids, or twists shown. We carefully craft each set to match the advertised design, so you’ll receive the exact style you fell in love with.

    Merino wool requires special wool dye to achieve the right color. Regular hair dye or other types of fabric dye may lead to unexpected results, such as uneven coloring or damage to the wool fibers. Because of this, we don’t recommend dyeing your wool dreads—it’s best to choose a color you love from the start.
    If you plan to dye your natural hair, be sure to remove your wool dreads first. Hair dye and bleach can damage the wool, altering its color in unpredictable ways. For the best results, reinstall your dreads only after your hair is completely clean and free from excess dye.

    We don’t recommend cutting your wool dreads. When making them, we tear the wool rovings instead of cutting to create a natural, tapered end—this is what gives them their organic look.
    If you trim them yourself, you’ll need special knowledge to cut at the right angle and then felt the ends properly to prevent shedding. Because of this, we advise choosing a length you’re happy with from the start. If you do decide to trim them, it’s at your own risk!

    We don’t recommend using fabric softener on your wool dreads. While it may make the wool feel softer, fabric softener can coat the fibers, reducing the natural moisture-wicking and breathable properties of the wool. This can affect the texture and comfort of your woollies.
    To keep your wool dreadlocks in the best condition, simply wash them gently with cool water and avoid any harsh chemicals or fabric softeners. This will help maintain their natural qualities and extend their lifespan!

     SHIPPING & ORDERS

    Each wool dreads set is handmade to order to avoid mass production and maintain high quality. Because of this, we need 5–7 business days to create your wool dreads with care.
    Once ready, we ship via express shipping, and delivery usually takes just 3–7 business days, depending on your location.
    You’ll receive a tracking number by email as soon as your order ships, so you can follow your package every step of the way!

    We work with pre-dyed, professionally carded merino wool, so unfortunately, we can’t change the existing colors or create new custom shades. What you see in the shop is exactly what’s available.
    As for length, our standard sets are designed to work for most people. If you need a longer set, we’re happy to discuss a custom option and provide a price quote. Just send us an email and we’ll get back to you with the details!

    Please read Shipping and Returns page and write us an email.

    Sorry, but not possible. To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it.

    For more information please read Shipping and Returns page.

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