The Bantu knot out is a beautiful, distinctive styling method that uses the Bantu knot technique as a setting method rather than a finished style. By installing Bantu knots on damp, product-coated hair and allowing them to dry completely before releasing, the hair is set into a defined, spiral curl pattern that is uniquely its own — tighter and more spring-like than a twist out, and more organic and coiled than a roller set. The Bantu knot out is a heat-free method for achieving defined, bouncy curls on natural hair with impressive staying power.
Bantu Knots as a Setting Method
When Bantu knots are used as a finished style, they are worn intact as small, coiled buns. When used as a setting method — the Bantu knot out — the knots are installed, left to dry fully, and then released and separated into individual curls. The act of coiling the hair tightly around itself in the knot creates a defined, spring-like spiral that holds its shape remarkably well after release, particularly on well-moisturized natural hair with good product application.
What You Will Need
For a Bantu knot out, you will need a leave-in conditioner, a styling cream or gel with medium hold, a light oil, a rat tail comb for sectioning, and hair clips. The product selection is important — too little product results in a frizzy, undefined knot out, while too much can make the hair stiff or cause flaking. A medium-hold styling cream is ideal for most natural hair types.
Step 1 — Section and Apply Product
Work on freshly washed, damp hair. Divide the hair into sections — the number of sections determines the number of knots and therefore the number of curls in the finished style. Smaller sections create more, tighter curls. Larger sections create fewer, larger spirals. Apply leave-in conditioner followed by styling cream to each section thoroughly before beginning to coil.
Step 2 — Create the Knots
For each section, twist the hair in one direction — clockwise or counterclockwise, consistently throughout — then coil the twisted section around its own base in a circular motion, tucking the end under the coil to secure. The knot should sit flat against the scalp in a tight, compact coil. Work through the entire head until all sections are knotted.
Step 3 — Allow to Dry and Release
Allow the knots to dry completely — this may take several hours or overnight. Once fully dry, apply a drop of oil to your fingertips and carefully uncoil each knot from the base, gently separating the spiral downward. Use your fingers to separate and fluff the curls, working from the tips upward to maximize volume without disturbing the definition.
Final Thoughts
The Bantu knot out is a uniquely beautiful and versatile styling method that produces results distinct from any other natural hair style. The tight, spring-like coils it creates are striking, long-lasting, and showcase natural hair texture in its most defined and dynamic form. With practice, it becomes one of the most rewarding styles in any natural hair wearer’s toolkit.