Having knotty, matted hair is very frustrating. It’s uncomfortable, looks unkempt, and even leads to hair damage or loss if not properly taken care of. While brushing and detangling at home is important, sometimes professional help is needed to get rid of stubborn tangles. Going to your hair salon is a great solution if you have severely tangled locks.
Some salons offer specific “detangle” or “de-mat” appointments which focus solely on working out knots and tangles in the hair before washing, cutting, or styling. Explain to the receptionist when booking that your hair tangles and mats so they can schedule adequate time and ensure the right stylist is available to handle the task. It may take an hour or more depending on the severity of the tangles.
Come prepared
Arrive to your detangling session with your hair in its natural dry state if possible. Avoid putting conditioner, oil, or styling products in it before you start. It will make it harder for the stylist to grip and detangle the hair. Gather your hair into a ponytail or bun to keep it contained on your way to the salon. Also, arrive with an open mindset and understanding that the process may take a while. Have patience as the stylist gently works to smooth out your knots.
Use a detangling spray or cream
Your stylist will likely start by lightly spritzing your hair with a detangling spray or cream. These lubricating products help reduce friction and minimize breakage as tangles are worked out. They also provide slips for combs and brushes to pass through the hair more smoothly. Premium detangling hair salon in fort lauderdale use often contains ingredients like oils, silicones, and polymers to add extra moisture and protection. Let the stylist thoroughly coat your matted sections with the product before detangling.
Start at the ends and work up
The stylist will start carefully detangling your hair at the very ends first before slowly working up to the roots. Trying to force a comb or brush through knots close to the scalp first can cause excessive breakage and pain. Gently sliding a wide-tooth comb or special detangling brush from the bottom of the hair up is key. It helps minimize damage as tangles are slowly loosened and worked out bit by bit. Focusing just on small sections at a time also prevents ripping or tearing of hair.
Use low, even tension
The stylist will use slow, gentle, even motions with minimal pulling as they detangle your matted hair. Quick or aggressive back-and-forth tugging makes knots tighter. Low, steady tension is necessary to loosen tangles while avoiding unnecessary stress. It helps avoid unnecessary breakage that thins and damages the hair. Let the stylist know if anything feels too tight or painful, so they adjust their technique.
