Scientists have got to the root of the problem of tangled hair - and say it is all in the genes.

Researchers at the universities of Bonn and Toulouse mapped the DNA of 10 youngsters who have "uncombable hair syndrome".

They found the children had mutations in three specific hair growth genes - PADI3, TGM3 and TCHH.

"From the mutations found, a huge amount can be learned about the mechanisms involved in forming healthy hair, and why disorders sometimes occur," said Professor Regina Betz.

"At the same time, we can now secure the clinical diagnosis of 'uncombable hair' with molecular genetic methods."


Scientists first described the condition in 1973, and since then only about 100 cases have been recorded worldwide.

Affected children have extremely frizzy, dry, generally light blonde hair, with a characteristic shine.

The symptoms gradually disappear over time and the hair becomes more manageable.

The study has been published in the American Journal of Human Genetics.