Knots in your hair can be a real pain. Combing or brushing out tangles in your hair are a common frustration for many people with longer hair. But how do you prevent knots? Below, we will provide some detangling tips to help you fight your knots, and some care tips to prevent them in the first place.
Why Do Hair Knots Happen in the First Place?
Knots occur when hair follicles catch or tangle together. Hair texture can play a major role. Curly or fine hair types are more prone to interlocking. This is because they are more prone to friction. Dry hair and split ends are also more likely to tangle together. Additionally, environmental factors can affect tangles. Wind, the way you dry your hair, and even the type of pillowcase you sleep on can affect your likelihood of fighting knots.
How to Detangle Your Knots
Every day tangles in your hair can be simple to remove, but a gentle touch can keep you from yanking on your hair. Knots are easier to get out when your hair is wet. Wet hair is more flexible, while dry hair is more prone to breakage. Use your fingers to gently pull the knots out. It is usually more effective to start from the ends of your hair and work back to the root while detangling. Once the knot is loosened or cleared, use a wide-toothed comb to clear the rest of the tangle.
Tips for Preventing Knots
Below are several different tips for reducing the risk of knots in your hair.
Brushing/Combing Correctly
It may sound silly, but there are incorrect ways to brush our hair. It is always best to brush or comb when hair is wet, or at least damp. Start at the ends of your hair, brushing down and out. From there, move higher up the hair, brushing down and out. Even for everyday care, you should use a detangling brush or a wide-toothed comb.
Hair Hydration Fights Knots
Dry hair is more brittle and prone to breakage. It is also more likely to knot up. Hydrated hair is smoother and less likely to tangle. Proper conditioning, hair masks, and even drinking more water can affect hair hydration.
Bedtime Preparations
Proactive haircare at bedtime can keep your hair healthier and reduce knots. Swap out your cotton pillow case for silk or satin. Cotton draws moisture from the hair and can is less smooth than silk or satin. Hair is less likely to catch or tangle on these materials. You can also try sleeping with your hair in a bonnet made of silk or satin, for similar results. Braiding your hair before bed or sleeping in a loose bun can also help minimize knots.
Don’t Overwash Your Hair
Most people should wash their hair every 2 or 3 days. Washing more often can dry out your hair or strip away natural oils that keep hair healthy.
Regular Trims Fight Knots
Regular trims cut away split ends, which are more prone to knotting. Trimming your hair helps promote healthy growth and keep your style neater. For most individuals, a regular trim should be every 6-8 weeks. Your stylist can help you determine what is best for your hair type and style.
Ooh La La specializes in a variety of hairstyle techniques to help you find the right look for you. Book a time with one of our professional hairstylists today. Contact us or call 718-727-2694 today.