If you’re natural, you’re sure to have a number of these annoying single strands knots (aka fairy knots) lurking around your hair. To be honest, they are totally normal due to the structure of afro-textured hair and there is nothing you can do to get rid of all of them—unless, of course, you choose to cut your hair. However, there are ways to keep them at an absolute minimum. Keep reading to find out how!
Wear your hair stretched
By stretched, I don’t mean blowing it out or flat ironing. There are styles (twist out, plaits, etc) you can wear that will prevent your hair from shrinking. A shrunken head of hair is the breeding ground for coily hair to intertwine and knot up. See our article on tips to prevent natural hair shrinkage.
Step up your detangling game
You must get all your shed hairs out to keep them from knotting up with other hairs. Use a detangler or conditioner with ample slip and work in sections. If you’re still looking for the right detangling comb/brush check out some of the top ones here.
Say goodbye to Wash-N-Gos
Once you’ve attained a certain amount of length, your hair will react differently to Wash-N-Gos. One of the common mishaps that long haired naturals experience with their once beloved Wash-N-Gos is tangling and knotting once they hit the streets.
Shampoo in plaits
After detangling your hair, shampoo in plaits. This will keep your hair in workable sections and minimize the potential of individual strands knotting up.
Don’t sleep with loose hair
Put your hair in plaits or twists under your bonnet/scarf because all that rolling around at night will exacerbate the issue. I’m sure we can all agree that the constant twist and untwist isn’t the most fun thing in the world, but it will make a difference in the fight against pesky knots.
Hands off!
Hand-in-hair syndrome is all too real for naturals who are smitten by their new found kinks. Yes, it’s hard to keep your hands out of your hair, but think about all those knots you’re creating with your constant pulling and twirling. If that doesn’t get you to stop, I don’t know what will!
Protective styling
Wearing protective styles (braids, sew-ins, buns, etc) will decrease the need for you to comb or fiddle with your hair. As an added bonus, they will give your hair a much needed vacay from the harsh elements and help it grow. And who doesn’t like growth potential?
What methods do you find work best in keeping your single strand knots at bay?
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