Over the past few years, one name keeps coming up in bathrooms and on social media: Kknekki.
These hair ties, instantly recognisable by their engraved bead, have become a go-to for anyone looking for a strong hold that doesn't damage their hair.
But where do they actually come from, and how do you spot a genuine one? Here's everything you need to know.
Where does the name Kknekki come from?
Kknekki was born in Denmark, under the brand Bon Dep, founded in 1987.
Over time, the name - with its distinctive double "k" - has almost become shorthand for this type of hair tie, much like "Hoover" for a vacuum cleaner.
One thing to watch out for: you'll also find imitations spelled "Knekki" (with a single k) online, which don't match the same quality or craftsmanship.
What sets a Kknekki apart from a regular hair tie
The weaving technique is at the heart of Kknekki's reputation: more than 60 threads woven together give the tie an elasticity and softness that ordinary hair ties simply don't have. In practice, that means:
No creases or marks left in your hair, even after hours of wear
No tugging or pulling when you take it out
Resistant to salt water, chlorine and UV, without losing colour or stretch
A genuine engraved bead, the only reliable way to spot an authentic Kknekki
This last point is worth stressing: as the product's popularity has grown, so have the copies. The engraved bead remains the most reliable way to confirm you're holding a real Kknekki.
How to choose the right Kknekki for your hair
Not every head of hair needs the same Kknekki. A few simple pointers:
- Fine or fragile hair → go for a softer version to avoid unnecessary tension
- Thick or curly hair → a tighter weave holds better throughout the day
- Everyday wear vs. sport/swimming → the salt-water-resistant Kknekkis are ideal for summer and water activities
- Worn as a bracelet → many people wear them on the wrist too, which is why more elaborate colours and finishes (velvet, glitter, striped) have developed over time
Our Kknekki selection at L'Artisan Brossier
At L'Artisan Brossier, we chose to add Kknekki hair ties to our collection for the same reason we choose every brush: durability and craftsmanship over trends. Our sets are curated by colour palette rather than sold individually, so you can easily mix and match with your outfits or the season:
Iris set - sky blue, pearl pink, satin beige
Céleste set - midnight blue, vanilla cream, pale blue
Mimosa set - buttery yellow, pure white
Lazuli set - timeless, refined tones
Sunset set - copper, coral, pink, iridescent highlights, perfect for summer
(Browse our full Kknekki collection in the shop.)
How to care for your Kknekki hair ties
A well cared for Kknekki lasts for years without losing its shape:
- Avoid leaving it under prolonged tension in the same spot (a loose bun works better than a very tight ponytail worn all the time)
- Rinse it with clean water after swimming in the sea or a pool, even though it resists salt and chlorine
- Store it flat rather than wound around itself multiple times
Kknekki FAQ
Does a Kknekki damage hair?
No - that's the whole point of the design: the soft weave avoids the creasing and breakage caused by hair ties with a metal clasp.
How can I tell if my Kknekki is genuine?
Check for the engraved bead. Imitations often copy the general shape but rarely include this detail.
Can you wear a Kknekki as a bracelet?
Yes, that's a very common way to wear them - many colourways are designed to work equally well as a hair tie or a piece of jewellery.
Where can I buy genuine Kknekki in France?
From selected retailers such as L'Artisan Brossier, who guarantee the authenticity of the pieces they sell.
