How to Help Your Thick Knotted Hair

Keep your thick locks tangle-free.

Thick hair can be difficult to manage and keep tangle-free. Short or long, thick hair has a tendency to poof out, knot and become frizzy. Getting haircuts that complement the hair's texture and using hair care products such as conditioners and gels which moisturize and smooth your hair can help you to keep your thick locks under control.

Things You'll Need

• Moisturizing shampoo
• Rinse-out moisturizer
• Leave-in gel or moisturizer
• Wide-toothed comb
• Natural bristle brush
• Hair dryer

Instructions

1. Wash your hair in warm water with a moisturizing shampoo. Hot water may cause dryness, which can make your hair tougher to control. Similarly, many shampoos can strip your hair of its natural oils, rather than just the dirt and excess oil, which can also lead to damage. Thoroughly rinse the shampoo out of your hair. Failing to do so can leave a dry residue.

2. Apply 1 to 2 quarter-size drops of a rinse-out moisturizer, depending on the length of your hair. Massage the moisturizer into your scalp and hair so that it is fully coated. Leave the moisturizer on for at least five minutes. Run a wide-toothed comb through your hair to detangle before rinsing; the moisturizer lubricates your hair, helping the knots to come out more easily. Rinse with cool water.

3. Towel dry your hair and then apply styling gel or a leave-in moisturizer. These types of products can help to keep thick hair manageable and knot-free when it is dry. Comb the styling product through your hair using a wide-toothed comb.

4. Allow your hair to air dry, or use a hair dryer set on warm, rather than hot, to avoid frizz and damage. Additionally, use the medium power setting; a high-powered flow of air from the dryer can cause knots in thick hair, especially if your hair is long. Use a brush that has natural or boar bristles to avoid breaking your hair. Brush slowly if your hair is long so the bristles do not get tangled in the strands.

Tips & Warnings

• Long, thick hair can benefit from a layered haircut, which can help to complement your hair texture while also lessening the weight.

• A texturizing or thinning tool can help to eliminate some of the bulk in your thick hair. Ask your hair stylist if this is right for you.

References

• CareFair: How to Handle Thick, Curly or Unruly Hair
• Secrets to a Better You by Healing Self and Spirit