How to Untangle Matted Hair

Dealing with matted hair can be a frustrating and time-consuming task, as it involves dealing with an accumulation of tangles that have become crusty and extremely dry over time. But don’t worry, untangling your precious locks – without having to cut them off or causing further breakage – is possible with a lot of patience and a careful approach. Follow this step-by-step guide on how to untangle matted hair and restore your locks.

Matted hair occurs when strands become tightly tangled and interwoven, forming dense clumps or mats that feel almost impossible to untangle.

While any hair type can have occasional knots or tangles, curly, thick, or extremely dry and damaged hair types are more prone to matting. Here are some common causes:

• Chunky hair types: Curly or coily hair is naturally more prone to tangles and mats because of its texture and structure. The natural bends and coils of each strand make them more prone to intertwining. 
• Dry and damaged hair: When hair is damaged and lacks moisture, the hair cuticles become rough and porous. This makes the strands more likely to stick together and form knots.
• Long locks: Longer hair means longer strands that can coil together and bunch up. Friction from sleeping or exposure to strong winds, for example, can result in major knots.
• Poor haircare habits: Not brushing or combing your hair regularly can obviously lead to tangles. Residue buildup from products can also make hair strands more prone to matting.

Detangling tightly interwoven hair may seem daunting, but you can do it without resorting to extreme measures. It just takes a bit of time! Be patient and follow the steps below thoroughly and carefully:

What you’ll need are a detangling brush, a wide-toothed comb, a leave-in conditioner, and sectioning hair clips.

Soften and smoothen your hair with a leave-in conditioner or a detangling product that can help add moisture and reduce friction. Let it sit for several minutes to allow the tangles to loosen up and relax.

Know what they say about dealing with an overwhelming task? Break it into smaller, manageable steps and work on it little by little. The same rule applies here. Using clips and a wide-toothed comb, divide your hair into small sections. Then, detangle the strands, section by section.  

You can start by using your fingers to untangle and uncoil the knots in each section. This way, you can work through the tangles gently. Once loosened, you can use a wide-toothed comb to further separate the wound-up hair strands. Start from the ends of your hair and work upward.

If you’re dealing with stubborn coils, try holding the section just right above the tangle to reduce the tension of the knots. Then, add more conditioner as necessary to help it soften and detangle.

Alas, you’ve combed through the worst. Now, don’t forget the aftercare and maintenance needed to prevent hair tangles from forming again.

Since matted hair is usually a result of dryness and damage, it’s best to keep it nourished and well-conditioned. You can try the following:

• Deep conditioning: Use an at-home hair treatment, a hydrating mask, or a deep conditioner every week to help replenish the moisture on your locks.
• Trimming ends: Get a trim regularly. That way, you eliminate split ends and prevent frizz, which also makes hair prone to tangling.
• Anti-frizz techniques: Use a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce hair friction while you’re sleeping. 
• Moisturized locks: Keep your hair strands healthy with leave-in products. You can try applying natural alternatives like argan oil or coconut oil.
• Nourishing products: Switch to hair care products that will leave your hair strands moisture-rich, smooth, and easier to manage.

Consider adding Sunsilk Smooth and Manageable Shampoo to your daily routine. It has a blend of oils, vitamins, and proteins that help keep your hair softer and more manageable. You can also try Cream Silk Repair Booster Treatment Amino-Keratin Rebond Straight, an at-home treatment that gives you salon-quality results. It’s formulated to repair and restore damaged hair to help prevent further tangling and matting.

If the matting seems impossible beyond repair, it’s time to visit a hairstylist. Professionals have the tools and techniques required to handle even the worst cases of hair matting – with zero to minimal damage to your locks. Rest assured that the last thing they’d want to do is cut off the damaged hair.

Learning how to untangle matted hair doesn’t have to be a dreadful endeavor – just follow the step-by-step process above and take your time while at it. Regular hair care and protection can help improve your hair condition, for healthy, smooth, and tangle-free locks.