How to Manage Single-Strand Fairy Knots

Fairy knots may sound cute, but if you have natural hair, you likely realize just how not cute they can be. A step up from traditional knots and tangles, fairy knots, which are also known as single-strand knots, are an absolute pain to deal with and can seem pretty much impossible to detangle. And for curly, thicker hair textures, these knots are all too common. Ready to take back control of your hair? Keep reading for seven ways you can help smooth your strands of fairy knots for a tangle-free mane.

WHAT ARE SINGLE-STRAND KNOTS?

As the name suggests, single-strand knots are strands of hair that tangle within themselves to create a tiny knot. Often, these single-strand knots attach to other hairs, which in turn build bigger knots. Not cool! Since the knots are so tiny, it can be harder to detangle your hair than if you were to have a regular knot, even though the knot is small. With fairy knots, hair breakage can also become a factor, especially if you try to detangle your hair the wrong way.

WHY DO YOU KEEP GETTING FAIRY KNOTS?

So, why are you plagued by fairy knots? While anyone can get them if their hair gets knotted just right, curly and coily hair types are likely to experience tangles of this variety more often. The texture of your strands makes your hair extra prone to knots and getting tangled with itself. Another contributing factor is that as you shed—everyone’s hair sheds daily—and those strands end up wrapping around others, which is when those extra big, built-up fairy knots can make an appearance.

HOW TO AVOID FAIRY KNOTS

Now that you’re educated on fairy knots, it’s time to take action. Below, we’re sharing seven ways that you can help keep pesky single-strand knots at bay.

1. GET REGULAR TRIMS

You should always make it a point to trim your hair regularly. The perfect way to get rid of split ends and other damage, it also works wonders to keep your hair knot-free. Simply put, dry hair is more prone to knotting, and if you haven’t been diligent in keeping up with your appointments, that may be the main culprit. Stay ahead of the game and trim your hair every six to eight weeks. Trust us, your hair will thank you.

2. PROTECT THE ENDS OF YOUR HAIR

While you may think that the best way to protect the ends of your hair is by relying on a solid hair care routine and wearing protective styles, it’s not enough to ward off fairy knots. Normal contact with your jackets and clothing can cause friction and lead to those annoying knots. Take extra precautions to protect your ends.

3. DETANGLE YOUR HAIR PROPERLY

There is a reason why we always say you should take your time and use the proper products during the detangling process. Rushing can leave your hair with untouched tangles and knots that can turn into fairy knots. Not to mention, using the wrong products can make things even worse. Make sure you divide your hair into manageable sections to ensure that you’re detangling your hair from the root to the ends.

As for detangling products, always use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner like the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Shampoo and the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Conditioner. Follow up with the L’Oréal Paris EverStrong Break Proof Lotion, which moisturizes hair and provides slip for a seamless detangling process.

4. PROTECT YOUR HAIR AT NIGHT

You may be tempted to hop right into bed and catch some Zs at the end of the day, but you need to show your mane a little TLC beforehand. Cover your strands with a silk scarf or bonnet to help reduce friction and knots. Keep your hair intact and get a good night’s sleep.

5. MAKE DEEP CONDITIONING YOUR BFF

Deep conditioning should be a critical part of every natural hair care routine. Not only does this hair staple provide your strands with extra nourishment and moisture, but it also works to improve your hair’s strength to reduce excess friction and tangling. We love the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair Remedy Balm, which works wonders to restore strength and brilliance to hair strand by strand.

6. KEEP YOUR STRANDS HYDRATED

Speaking of moisture, it’s essential to keep your hair packed with hydration. After all, boosting your strands with moisture is a top priority, especially if you want to keep your hair tangle-free. If you have natural hair, try out the maximum hydration method to help lock your strands with moisture, reduce friction, and promote healthy-looking hair.

7. OPT FOR STRETCHED HAIRSTYLES

Curly, wavy, and coily textures are easier to tangle than straight hair—as you know. But that doesn’t mean that straightening your hair is necessarily the answer. You can wear stretched hairstyles and keep your flat iron out of the mix. Head on over to our article, How to Stretch Hair, for all of the deets!

And that’s how you protect your hair from single-strand fairy knots. Ready for another hair lesson? Next, check out our article, Your Guide to the LCO Method.