How to Get Rid of Fairy Knots

The dreaded fairy knot!  Fairy knots are single strand knots that are very common among naturals. They are a hassle because they can create more more knots and they can make your hair snap off when combing or detangling.  They can also create rough edges and split ends, if your hair breaks off near the knot.  Here are some ways to prevent fairy knots and how to get rid of them if you’re dealing with them now.

If you can manage to unravel the knot, that is a perfectly respectable way to solve the problem.  But this can be difficult to do, even with a needle and a patient hand.  Another good way to get rid of  these knots is to trim your hair  directly above the knot, making a clean break from the knot and avoiding potentially frayed hair or split ends.  If fact, regular trimming is a good idea for many naturals.

It is preventing fairy knots that takes more work.  Knots can form when your hair is being manipulated in any way, and that can include being detangled, brushed, styled or anything else.  So to  help cut down on unnecessary manipulation,  wash your hair in sections, especially after you’ve reached four or five inches in length.  This will help reduce tangles.

Also, utilize protective styling.  Twists, braids, Bantu knots, cornrows and other protective styles will lessen the chances  that your hair will tangle up and become damaged.

Keeping your hair moisturized will also lessen the chances that your hair will knot up.  You need to use a water-based moisturizer on your hair, perhaps a several times a day, to keep it optimally moisturized.

Protecting your hair while you sleep will help to keep knots away.  You can wear a satin bonnet or scarf, or at the very least, sleep on a satin pillowcase.

Deep conditioning your hair at least once a week is  almost  always a must for naturals.  Deep conditioning keeps your hair healthy and supple.  Supple strands don’t knot up – not much, anyway.

It’s also a good idea to keep towels away from your hair.   No matter how  gentle you are, towels are really rough on your hair.  To dry your  hair, pat it with an old t-shirt instead.

Be exceedingly careful and gentle when detangling your hair. In fact, this is a good general tip.  Treat your hair lovingly and it will respond accordingly.  These tips will help you to get rid of fairy knots for good.