6 Easy Steps To Bantu Knots

Bantu Knots also known as Zulu knots originated and were popularized by the Zulu people, a Bantu ethnic tribe of Africa. Though originally a style exclusive to this ethnic group, it didn’t take too long before globalization got to it. The Bantu knots hairstyle features lovely small, coiled buns sprinkled throughout the hair and believe us when we say that any hair type can opt to go up in knots to get this style.

From a host of icons who have led us to love this style, we’ve lost count of the many times pop singer Rihanna has slayed Bantu Knots; right from rustic to modern-day edgy.

The best bit about them though is that they rid one heavy devil off our hair troubles – frizziness! Additionally, these knots can be created without using any heat and keep moisture locked when coiled up.

So who’s knot-ready? We show you how to in 6 easy steps.

STEP 1: Wash It

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Cleanse your scalp gently to remove any product build-up, then condition the lengths of your hair as usual. Detangle using Dr.Miracle’s Cleanse & Condition Leave-in Conditioner, that protects your hair as you style it. You will need smooth hair to begin with before you start wrapping the Bantu knots.

STEP 2: Part It

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Bantu knots require your hair to be parted in sections all over. Not hard to tell from the very look of it! With the help of a rat-tail comb, divide your hair into sections depending on how thick you would like your knots to look. Remember, the smaller the knots, the more defined your curls will be once unravelled.

Go crazy and part your hair in different patterns – zigzag to interlocked diamonds, triangles to squares!

TIP: Hair that is well moisturized is the best canvas for Bantu knots.

STEP 3: Twist It

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Use a curl cream or a similar setting product and twist the product into each section of your hair with your fingers. No stressing them roots, please! We swear by African Pride Shea Miracle Moisture Intense Bouncy Curls Pudding which has a light to medium hold, perfect to create the Bantu knots and knot-outs, to hold their form without making them too stiff. Once your hair is twisted enough, wrap it into a knot. Take a look at some of these twist hairstyles.

STEP 4: Hold It

This by far is the trickiest part of the process. As you see your twists start to coil, give them a little tug to make sure no stubborn hair is sticking out. Secure each of the twisted knots firmly in place with tiny elastic bands and use 3-4 hairpins as backup reinforcement to make sure your Bantu knots behave all day long.

STEP 5: Repeat It

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Repeat the process for each section, keeping the thickness of each Bantu knot consistent.

STEP 6: Finish It

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The perfectionist in us would finish these Bantu knots with some hairspray to keep them neat once all done. Garnish with some accessories like hair cuffs, coloured elastic bands, fun temporary colour or yarn threads. Own that Bantu Baby!

Bantu knots can also be used for getting defined curls. To learn more about it, see How To Set Your Curls Without Heat.