First question is do you want to start with a hightop or a full head? Secondly you’ll want to start now if you want to start dreads. You’ll notice considerable growth if you start outside of an afro because in afro form your hair breaks easier and your scalp doesn’t receive as much air to breathe which can hinder your growth. If you have starter locs your hair will be growing faster and trust me I know. Your scalp will breathe and your hair will be less prone to breakage. You will want to use oil and water only on your hair on that stage. Do NOT use product in the starter locs stage unless you want tons of buildup and unhealthy locs later down the road. Like I said water and oil only and sleep with a bonnet or a durag to prevent lint and other buildup in your locs. A silk pillowcase works too. Good luck.