A Guide To Making Your Bantu Knots Last

Although those curls are totally worth it, ain't no body got time to be re-twisting up bantu knots every night to keep their curls defined and fluffy. Here's how I keep my set looking fresh for at least 3 days and what I do when things don't go according to plan:

1. Make sure that you allow enough drying time- My curls in the middle of my crown always take longer to dry then their counterparts. When you unravel before your curls are dry---just know you're bound to look like a frizzy chia pet by the end of the day.

2. Your cocktail matters: This is the only time that I'm strict about order of operations-- Moisturizer + Oil + Holding product--is the key to gorgeous curls that last. Now, I'm all about using what your hair likes but just be sure that the products that you use together like each other. Some moisturizers don't like some oils and some holding products loose their minds when compounded with some moisturizers. Date a few cocktails until you find one that you like. My current fave for long lasting curls is Jessicurl Too Shea Extra Moisturizing Conditioner, my Tangerine Vanilla Whipped Hair Butter and Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie.

NaturallyCurly Guide to the Pineapple

3. Pineapple your heart out: I hang my head upside down and pull all of my curls to the crown of my hair then tie with a satin scarf with the knot in the front. Some days it works like a charm---other days meh...not so well. Whatever you do--don't smooth or stretch your curls. They will be flat in the morning.There are tons of pineappling methods (check out this pintutorial from naturallycurly.com), figure out what works for you and stick to it.

4. Moisturize and seal in the morning: When I moisturize before pineappling my curls turn into waves. But not moisturizing is a sin---so I just moisturize in the morning once I take down my scarf. It breathes life into my curls--which are usually looking a hot wonky mess by morning.

5. When in doubt, Bun Effect it: By day 3/4, my curls look more like waves---so I work them into a faux bob or side bun. Old or failed Bantu curls are a perfect base for an ultra-cute updo!

What are your tips to making Bantu knot curls last?

Besitos!
KLP