Thread: Knots in long hair

I have very fine usually poker straight hair, which I have let grow out, but my hair mats horrendously (lower layers, usually right at the nape of my neck), and it doesn't matter if I am outside in the wind (expected) or inside working at my job - my hair just seems to coil spontaneously into a little rat's nest...cr.: Generally in the past I have just kept my hair short, but I have been actually enjoying the long hair lately (except for this knotting thing). Anyone have any tricks to tame long fine hair that just loves to knot?

My hair is very straight too, but it looks messy all the time. I have to keep a brush in my desk so I don't look like a complete mess by the end of the day.

I usually just wear my hair up so it doesn't tangle.

French braids are your friends!

Wide tooth comb, good conditioner, and be willing to put it up. These are the things which I have found are the best way to manage long, ultra straight, fine hair.

{{{HUGS}}}

In case you aren't doing it already - when you comb your hair (I find combing with an 80s afro comb far better than brushing) make sure you start from the ends and gradually work up the shaft, this prevents splits and further noting.

I wash the roots of my hair only and let the shampoo go through to the ends when it is getting rinsed and then I put conditioner on the lower lengths (staying well clear of the roots as my hair goes oily easily).

I have very long hair, but my advice is possibly not really applicable to you because mine is *VERY* thick.

I actually avoid putting my hair up as much as possible - it's the rubbing of the ponytail at the nape of the neck (i.e. against your collar as you move your head) that causes the worst knots in that area for me.

Definitely second the advice on shampooing only at the roots and conditioning only at the ends, too - use a really good conditioner since your ends will be drier and more prone to splitting than "newer" short hair. Use a hot oil treatment once in a while as well - it really helps with the condition (although I'm not sure how this will work for finer hair! ..c:: YMMV)

If you're having a specific problem at the nape of the neck, would it help to spritz on a bit of Johnson's No More Tangles before combing?

When I am preparing to shampoo and encounter knots I massage a conditioner in the knotted areas and finger comb until the knots release. No water on my hair - just the conditioner and my fingers. Every second shampoo I use a heavy-duty conditioner. When my hair is dry it tends to knot more. I also avoid using a brush, I only use an afro comb.

i braid mine for bed....

I have very straight shiny hair with no grip. I keep it in a braid most of the time and the hair loosens up at the back of the neck because of the lack of grip, and then I get the knots you describe. I now rinse hair with a bit of vinegar in water (1T to 1c) after washing it, then rinse with clear water. This does not prevent all the knotting but it certainly aids in combing out. I have no idea why.

Originally Posted by maurazebra

I have very straight shiny hair with no grip. I keep it in a braid most of the time and the hair loosens up at the back of the neck because of the lack of grip, and then I get the knots you describe. I now rinse hair with a bit of vinegar in water (1T to 1c) after washing it, then rinse with clear water. This does not prevent all the knotting but it certainly aids in combing out. I have no idea why.

the vinegar helps the scales on the hairs to contract/close, so it is less likely to 'grab' and tangle. i like a good vinegar rinse too, but only do it about once a week. I also comb my hair a fair bit after it dries (not all the time) to move the sebum (oil from the scalp) to distribute along the hair shaft.

I also keep my hair in a braid or under a head scarf unless I am actively showing it off

And... I need to order more cassia. hmm, that's the second time this week I've written that... works like henna to coat the hair, but without the coloring.

so a recap...
Wearing it up/braiding it/braiding it at night
Good conditioner/hot oil treatment
finger comb out wet knots with straight conditioner
Vinegar rinse
detangler
Washing the roots, not the ends
The afro pick and careful brushing

I think I have myself a good action plan now!
Thanks all!! ..g.:

One more thing, use a silk pillow at night....makes a big difference, believe me

Originally Posted by bul_bul_ksa

One more thing, use a silk pillow at night....makes a big difference, believe me

mmm- that just sounds nice anyway.

Silk pillowcase also supposedly helps prevent wrinkles to the skin.