Ultimate Guide to Detangling Natural Hair

Untangling those luscious natural locks can sometimes feel like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube blindfolded. However, with the right approach, detangling can become a breeze, leaving your curls looking and feeling their best. In this ultimate guide to detangling like a pro, we're diving deep into why it's crucial, exploring various techniques to tackle those tangles, and dishing out some must-know tips to keep your curls happy and healthy.

Importance of Proper Detangling

Detangling natural hair is essential for maintaining its health and vitality. When hair becomes tangled, knots and tangles can form, leading to breakage and damage. Proper detangling helps to prevent breakage, minimise shedding, and keep hair looking smooth and defined.

Step-by-Step Detangling Process

Regardless of the method you choose, there are some general steps to follow when detangling natural hair.

• Start  by dividing your hair into manageable sections, securing each section with a clip or hair tie.
• Then, working one section at a time, apply a generous amount of conditioner or detangling spray to the hair, focusing on the ends where tangles tend to form.
• Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle the hair, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots.
• Take your time and be patient, especially if your hair is prone to tangling.
• If you encounter a particularly stubborn knot, apply more detangling product and gently work through it with your fingers.

Detangle Before Styling

Before styling your natural hair, it's important to ensure that it's free of knots and tangles. Whether you're wearing your hair in a wash-and-go style or a protective style such as braids or twists, detangling beforehand will make the styling process much easier and help to prevent breakage.

Wet vs Damp Detangling

When detangling natural hair, some people prefer to do so when the hair is wet, while others find it easier to detangle when the hair is damp. Both methods can be effective, so it's a matter of personal preference. Experiment with both wet and damp detangling to see which works best for your hair type and texture.

Comb vs Finger Detangling

Another consideration when detangling natural hair is whether to use a comb or your fingers. Some people find that using a wide-tooth comb helps to gently remove knots and tangles without causing breakage, while others prefer to use their fingers to carefully separate the strands. Again, it's important to experiment and find the method that works best for you.

Avoid Using Wrong Tools

When detangling natural hair, it's important to use the right tools to avoid causing damage. Avoid using brushes with stiff bristles or fine-tooth combs, as these can cause breakage and damage to the hair. Instead, opt for a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush specifically designed for natural hair such as ghd Detangling Comb​ or Magic Collection Detangling Comb .

ghd Detangling Comb​

Never Detangle Dry Hair

Detangling natural hair when it's dry can lead to breakage and damage, as the hair is more prone to snapping when it's not properly lubricated. Always detangle your hair when it's wet or damp, and be sure to use a generous amount of conditioner or detangling spray to add slip and make the process easier.

Detangle in Small Sections

To ensure thorough detangling and minimise breakage, it's best to detangle natural hair in small sections. This allows you to focus on one section at a time, ensuring that each strand is properly detangled before moving on to the next. Divide your hair into manageable sections using clips or hair ties, and detangle each section individually for best results.

Best Detangling Products  

Mielle Organics Pomegranate And Honey Moisturizing And Detangling Shampoo - 12oz​

Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Shampoo is a blessing for Type 4 hair, gently cleansing with honey and babassu oil, retaining moisture, and offering luxurious lather and scent. It untangles effortlessly, leaving hair silky and primed for styling. Free of sulfates and harmful chemicals, it's a must-have for healthy hair care routines.

Mielle Organics Detangling Co-Wash - 8oz​

Mielle Organics Detangling Co-Wash is a game-changer for hair care, gently cleansing and nourishing with natural ingredients. Experience effortless detangling, frizz control, and improved hair strength with this sulfate-free, lightweight formula. Perfect for daily use, it's a must-have for dry, curly hair types, promoting healthier, longer locks without sacrificing natural oils.

Eden Bodyworks Peppermint Tea Tree Detangling Conditioner - 8oz

Experience the refreshing sensation of Eden Bodyworks Peppermint Tea Tree Detangling Conditioner. Formulated with peppermint and tea tree oils, it boosts scalp circulation, moisturises strands, and reduces split ends, leaving hair soft, full of body, and tangle-free. Perfect for all hair types, it's the ultimate scalp therapy in a bottle. ​

Paul Mitchell The Detangler - 100ml

Paul Mitchell's conditioner is a luxurious solution for coarse to medium hair, delivering salon-like detangling. Infused with grape seed oil and carrot extract, it provides instant conditioning and UV protection, leaving hair smooth and moisturised.

Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Extra-moisture Detangler - 8oz​

A hair miracle, enriched with Shea Butter, Sea Kelp, and Argan Oil. It deeply nourishes and conditions, perfect for brittle hair. Free from chemicals, it heals the scalp, promotes growth, and releases knots. Sea Kelp boosts hair health, while Argan Oil restores moisture, leaving hair soft and manageable. Ideal for sensitive skin, it's the leave-in treatment for extra moisture and smoother hair.

Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil Knot Free Forever Natural Leave-In Detangler - 8oz​

Sunny Isle's Jamaican black castor oil knot-free leave-in detangler is a must-have for curly hair care. With the benefits of natural castor oil, it ensures a healthy scalp and hair, suitable for all types, even chemically treated. This sulfate-free formula guarantees healthier, tangle-free locks every time.

Sunny Isle Just For Wig & Weave 2 In 1 Conditioner & Detangler - 8oz​

Sunny Isle's 2-in-1 Conditioner & Detangler revitalises wigs and weaves, infused with Jamaican Black Castor Oil for reduced frizz and enhanced moisture. Ideal for synthetic and natural hair, it refreshes, detangles, and adds shine, transforming dull hair into vibrant locks with just one use.

Luster's Pink Kids Easy Comb Detangler - 355ml

Luster's Pink Kids Easy Comb Detangler is perfect for curly hair maintenance. Formulated with natural coconut oil, Shea butter, and Castor oil, it deeply nourishes, hydrates, and detangles, leaving hair manageable and soft. Suitable for all hair types, it ensures healthy, tangle-free locks with ease.

Share these tips with your curl crew and become a detangling pro!

By following these tips and techniques, you can become a pro at detangling natural hair. Share these tips with your friends and fellow curly girls, and help them achieve healthy, tangle-free hair as well!

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