im in the process now of growing dreads. yea, ur gonna get a lot of shit.. especially if ur white. A lot of rasta jokes, which get tiring but u gotta look past it.
Theres different methods of getting dreads, some result in 'nicer/neater' looking dreads and some the opposite. Its up to you which you want. If you want really nice and kept dreads ide recommend backcombing sections and using wax. But If you want some nappy hippy dreadlocks
then just go natural.
Just wash your hair with non- residue shampoo and dont comb. Gradually wash less n less and your scalp wont produce as much oils, so your hair will knot up better without the oils. Right now im only about a month and a half in, i wash my hair like 3.... 4 times a week.
you can wash your hair with baking soda, its a great cleaner. Or Dr. Bronners soap. Its residue free and vegan friendly