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How to Detangle Knotted & Tangled Hair

Jun 15, 2011 / By Lynda Moultry Belcher

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Brushing out tangles can hurt if you don't do it right.

Photo: Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images

Your hair is your most visible feature, so when it looks a tangled mess, it can ruin your entire look. It may be daunting to contend with a head full of knots and tangles, particularly if you are used to seeing half your hair in the comb once you've finished. Stop pulling out your hair (literally) and instead, get knots out and de-tangled in a manner more conducive to the health of your hair.

Spray your entire head with a detangling product or leave-in conditioner. This softens the hair and makes knots or extremely tangled locks easier to get through when you are ready to brush your hair out. Once you apply the spray, be sure to leave it on your head for a few minutes, so that it has a chance to work.

Condition your hair overnight if it is super tangled. Apply the conditioner all over and then put on a sleeping cap or snugly-fitting shower cap. You either use a jojoba oil or an intensive conditioning product meant to sit on the hair for extended periods of time. Let it sit on the hair while you sleep and you will find you have an easier time getting through those tangles the next morning.

Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle hair. Brushes can cause breakage and cause your hair to frizz once you get the tangles out. If you must brush, do so after you've gotten the tangles out and try to do so before you style your hair. Meanwhile, the comb will help you get the tangles out without ripping your hair to shreds.

Comb from the tips of your hair. Work upwards to get out tangles little by little. This is more time-consuming, but it won't leave your scalp feeling like you just tried to rip it out piece by piece. Start with a small section, comb it out and then move up a section. Do this until you reach the top of your head.

If you haven't brushed your hair in a few days, you may see more hair in the comb or brush that usual. Remember, your hair sheds naturally every day, so when you don't brush, you can see that build-up when you finally get around to combing it out.