Knots and tangles cause a lot of hair breakage, especially when hair is brushed from the roots in one pull. Detangling gently, with slip from a conditioner or serum, protects length and reduces split ends. This guide covers the method, tools and products.
Quick answer: detangle in sections, starting from the ends and working up, using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers, while hair is coated in conditioner or a detangling product. Never force a brush through a knot.
Step by Step
- Start with damp hair coated in conditioner or mask for extra slip.
- Divide hair into four sections and clip three away.
- Begin at the ends and work upward with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers.
- Hold the hair above a knot with one hand so the roots are not tugged.
- Work stubborn knots out gently with your fingers.
- Rinse and continue your routine.
Products That Give Slip
Mane-A-Tame Repair Rescue Conditioner is designed to condition hair after shampooing, making strands easier to detangle, comb and style. A mask such as Mane-A-Tame Repair Rescue Mask adds extra softness once a week. For dry hair, a few drops of Hair Fuel Smoothing Serum can smooth strands before brushing. Read Hair Conditioner Guide: How to Choose the Right Conditioner for Your Hair Type to choose the right conditioner and Hair Mask Guide: How to Choose the Best Hair Mask for Your Hair for masks.Tools That Help
- Wide-tooth comb for wet hair
- Flexible-bristle or loop brush for dry hair
- Your fingers for the first pass
Detangling by Hair Type
| Hair type | Best method |
|---|---|
| Straight | Comb from the ends up, wet or dry |
| Wavy | Detangle in the shower with conditioner |
| Curly | Wet with conditioner; avoid brushing dry curls. See Curly Hair Care Guide: How to Care for Curly and Wavy Hair |
| Long | Small sections, ends first |
What Causes Tangles?
Dryness, friction from clothes and pillows, damage and long length all contribute. Read Hair Repair Guide: How to Repair Dry, Damaged, Frizzy & Chemically Treated Hair if your hair feels dry or rough, and Split Ends: Causes, Prevention & Hair Care Tips to understand how damaged ends tangle.Mistakes to Avoid
- Brushing from the roots down
- Pulling at a knot while hair is dry and tight
- Using a fine-tooth comb on wet curly hair
- Skipping conditioner
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I detangle matted hair?
Soften it with conditioner or a mask, then work gently with your fingers and a wide-tooth comb in small sections. Be patient.
Should I detangle wet or dry hair?
Wet hair with conditioner is best for most types. Fine, straight hair can be detangled dry with care.
What is the best comb for detangling?
A wide-tooth comb for wet hair and a flexible-bristle brush for dry hair.
Why does my hair tangle so much?
Dryness, damage, friction and long length all cause tangles.
Does detangling cause hair fall?
Some loose hair comes out when you detangle, which is normal. Heavy breakage is caused by rough handling. See Hair Fall vs Hair Breakage.
Can I use serum to detangle?
A little serum on dry hair can smooth strands before brushing.
How can I prevent tangles?
Condition regularly, trim split ends, sleep with hair tied loosely and avoid rubbing hair with a towel.
Explore the Orangewood Range
Make detangling easier with Mane-A-Tame Repair Rescue Conditioner and the Mane-A-Tame range.
Related Guides
- Hair Fall vs Hair Breakage
- Split Ends: Causes, Prevention & Hair Care Tips
- Hair Conditioner Guide: How to Choose the Right Conditioner for Your Hair Type
- Hair Mask Guide: How to Choose the Best Hair Mask for Your Hair
- Curly Hair Care Guide: How to Care for Curly and Wavy Hair
- Hair Repair Guide: How to Repair Dry, Damaged, Frizzy & Chemically Treated Hair
Shop: Mane-A-Tame Repair Rescue Conditioner · Mane-A-Tame Repair Rescue Mask · Mane-A-Tame Repair Rescue Shampoo · Hair Fuel Smoothing Serum
