How to Detangle Severely Matted African American Hair & Encourage New Growth

Nothing should stop you from experiencing the full, vibrant potential of your natural hair - least of all the seemingly insurmountable challenge of matted hair. As an African American woman, it's likely you've wrestled with this issue, perhaps even as you're reading this article. 

Frustration mounts as you search desperately for solutions on how to detangle severely matted African American hair, the seemingly never-ending tangles standing as a roadblock to your hair's true beauty and potential.

But take a deep breath and exhale all that stress and frustration. Your hair journey may have brought you face to face with this challenge, but it doesn't mean it has to stay that way. By understanding your hair and knowing the right techniques, you can overcome matting and unlock the door to luscious, manageable, and healthy hair.

With this guide, we'll not only show you how to detangle severely matted African American hair, but we'll also set you on the path to nurturing new growth and maintaining healthy hair in the future.

Empowered with the right knowledge and tools, you can reclaim control over your hair's destiny. First things first - what exactly is “matted” hair, and what causes it?

What is “Matted” Hair?

When we talk about “matted” hair, we're referring to a situation that's far more serious than a regular knot or tangle. Matted hair is a dense, compact cluster of strands that have intertwined so severely over time that it often forms a hard, impenetrable mass. 

It can affect a small section of hair or, in extreme cases, can encompass the entire head. It's a condition that goes beyond the everyday “bed-head” or the slight knots you may experience after a windy day.

Matted hair is not only aesthetically challenging but can also lead to significant hair health issues. It restricts the natural movement of your strands, leading to strain and breakage. 

Moreover, it can inhibit the proper cleaning and conditioning of your hair, leading to a buildup of dirt, oil, and product residue. This accumulation can further damage the hair and potentially lead to scalp problems like dandruff or even infections.

Unfortunately, severe matting doesn't just resolve itself and requires a specific approach to detangling to prevent extensive damage to your hair. But to effectively combat matting, we first need to understand how and why it happens, particularly in African American hair.

How Does African American Hair Become Matted in the First Place?

African American hair, with its unique texture and curl pattern, has a beauty all its own. However, this very uniqueness also makes it more susceptible to certain challenges, ranging from dry, flaky scalp in African American hair to scalp eczema black hair, dandruff in African American hair, and more.

Matting is yet another one of these challenges. But what exactly causes African American hair to become severely matted? 

Common Reasons for Matted Hair in African American Hair

Just as what causes black women's hair loss, the cause of matted hair can range from a multitude of factors:

• Lack of Regular Detangling: With its natural kinks and curls, African American hair can tangle more easily than other hair types. Regular, gentle detangling is crucial to prevent these small tangles from developing into severe matting. Using a wide-toothed comb or a special detangling brush and working slowly from the ends to the roots can help maintain tangle-free hair.
• Infrequent Washing or Conditioning: Skipping regular washing or conditioning can lead to product buildup and tangling, which, over time, can lead to matting. Hydration is crucial for African American hair. Regular conditioning and using hydrating products can keep your hair supple and easier to manage. You can learn about how often to wash African American hair for growth in our blog.
• Protective Styles Left in Too Long: Protective styles like braids or twists can be great for reducing hair stress and promoting growth. However, if left in too long without proper maintenance, these styles can contribute to severe matting.
• Sleeping Without a Satin Cap or on a Cotton Pillowcase: Cotton can cause friction leading to tangles and breakage. A satin cap or pillowcase reduces this friction, helping to keep your hair tangle-free as you sleep.

The Role of Hair Texture and Curl Pattern

As you may already know if you read our guide on the difference between white and black hair, African American hair usually has a coarser texture and a tighter curl pattern. 

This unique structure means that your strands naturally twist and turn, creating areas where hair can easily interlock and tangle. Over time, without regular detangling and proper care, these tangles can compact and harden, turning into severe matting.

While it might seem that the cards are stacked against you, it's important to remember that understanding these factors is the first step towards combating matting. Below, we’ll help you take action and reverse this curse with the best advice on how to detangle severely matted African American hair.

How to Detangle Severely Matted African American Hair

No matter how daunting it might seem, detangling severely matted African American hair is a challenge that can be met head-on with patience, the right tools, techniques, and a calm mindset. 

It’s a process that requires a careful, methodical approach, but the end result is well worth the effort. Here is how to detangle severely matted African American hair safely and effectively - with as little pain as possible.

Preparing Your Hair and Mind for Detangling

Before you even begin the detangling process, it's important to prepare both your hair and mind. Start by soaking your hair in a rich, hydrating conditioner or a mix of conditioner and warm water for at least 30 minutes. 

This process helps to soften the hair, making the detangling process easier and more manageable. Some people find that applying a detangling spray or oil like coconut or jojoba oil at this stage can be helpful as well.

Equally important is preparing your mind. Detangling severely matted hair can be a time-consuming process that requires patience and persistence. So, make sure to choose a time when you can focus without feeling rushed or stressed. Some soothing music or an engaging podcast can also make the process more enjoyable.

Necessary Tools and Products for Detangling

Arming yourself with the right tools and products is crucial for effective detangling. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A Wide-Tooth Comb: This will be your primary tool for detangling. The wide spaces between the teeth allow for gentle detangling without excessive pulling on the hair.
• Detangling Spray or Oil: These help to provide slip to the hair, making it easier to separate the strands.
• Hydrating Conditioner: A good conditioner helps to soften the hair, making it easier to detangle.
• Clips or Hair Ties: These are used to section off the hair, making the process more manageable.
• A Spray Bottle of Water: Keeping the hair damp can facilitate the detangling process.

The Technique of Detangling Matted Hair

Now, you’re armed with the right products, the right mindset, and you’re ready to learn how to detangle severely matted African American hair. Below, we’ll guide you through the 3-step process:

1. Section Your Hair: Start by dividing your hair into small, manageable sections, and secure them with the clips or hair ties. Working with one section at a time helps to prevent further tangling and makes the process less overwhelming.
2. Start Detangling from the Ends: Always begin detangling from the ends of your hair and gradually work your way up to the roots. This method minimizes breakage and is generally less painful.
3. Be Gentle and Patient: Use your fingers or the wide-tooth comb to gently tease apart the tangles. If you encounter a particularly stubborn mat, add more conditioner or detangling spray and give it time to work. Avoid tugging or pulling hard on your hair, as this can cause breakage.

There you have it! Take your time to work through the tangles carefully and meticulously, and do it right the first time around so you don’t have to worry about this anytime soon. Once you feel good about the work you’ve done, it’s time to give your hair some post-detangling care.

Post-Detangling Care

After you’ve finished detangling, rinse your hair thoroughly to remove all the conditioner or detangling spray. Follow up with a deep conditioning treatment or hair mask to nourish and hydrate your hair. 

This step can help repair any damage caused by the matting and detangling process, and leaves your hair smooth, shiny, and more resistant to future tangling. You can learn more about how to moisturize dry brittle African American hair in our blog. 

Advice on Making the Process as Pain-Free as Possible

The key to a pain-free detangling process is patience and gentleness. Always work slowly and methodically, giving your hair time to relax and untangle. 

Maintain a calm and positive mindset throughout the process, taking breaks as needed. Remember, it’s not a race.

But sometimes, even when following our advice to a T, detangling won’t yield the results you were hoping for. In the case of severely matted black hair, you may need to head to the salon.

The Best Detangler for Matted African American Hair

When it comes to selecting the best detangler for matted African American hair, there are several factors to consider. 

The ideal detangler should be formulated with natural, nourishing ingredients that not only make detangling easier but also nourish and strengthen your hair.

A good detangler should also provide ample slip to allow your comb or fingers to glide through your hair without causing breakage.

Lastly, look for products that are free from harmful chemicals like sulfates, parabens, and phthalates that can dry out and damage your hair.

When is Cutting Your Hair Necessary?

While cutting is often seen as the last resort, there are cases where it might be necessary, particularly when the matting is so severe that detangling would result in significant hair damage or if the matted area is causing discomfort or scalp problems. 

In such cases, it’s best to consult a professional stylist or trichologist who can assess the situation and provide advice on the best course of action.

On this note, we see a lot of women wondering when the best day to cut hair for growth is. This matters less than you think - it’s just important that you schedule regular trimmings to address split ends and prevent matting in the first place. 

That being said, let’s offer a bit more advice on preventing your hair from becoming matted in the future now that you’ve got it back to healthy status.

Advice on Preventing Your Hair From Becoming Matted in the Future

Knowing how to repair damaged hair for black women is great - but an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. The key lies in maintaining a consistent and effective hair care regimen, regular trimming and deep conditioning, and, when necessary, utilizing protective hairstyles.

In our blog, we have a complete guide on caring for black hair, and you can also learn about promoting black hair growth there as well. But really, preventing matting can be as simple as incorporating the following into your routine:

• Regular Hair Care Practices: Implement consistent detangling, hydration, and moisturizing to prevent tangles and matting. Be gentle when handling your hair, whether you're washing, drying, or styling it. Also, consider protecting your hair at night with a satin or silk pillowcase or a satin bonnet to minimize friction and breakage.
• Regular Trimming and Deep Conditioning: Regular trims are essential for preventing matting as split ends and damaged hair are more prone to tangling. Aim for a trim every 6-8 weeks, or as needed based on your hair's condition. Incorporate deep conditioning into your routine to provide your hair with intense hydration and nourishment. This not only prevents tangles and mats but also enhances your hair's overall health and appearance.
• Protective Hairstyles: Protective hairstyles like braids, twists, buns, and updos can keep your hair secure and tangle-free, reducing the likelihood of matting. These styles also protect your hair from environmental damage and moisture loss. However, remember not to keep these styles in for too long to prevent matting. Regularly cleanse and re-style your hair to keep it healthy and tangle-free.

More Tips for Improving Your Hair Care Regimen

Now that we've discussed how to detangle severely matted African American hair, it's also crucial to consider additional ways to improve your overall hair care regimen. And that’s where Allurium Beauty comes in.

Our hair growth serum is a potent formula designed to stimulate hair growth, combat hair loss, and nourish your hair from root to tip. With natural ingredients like aloe vera, castor oil, and essential vitamins, this serum helps fortify your hair, making it stronger, thicker, and healthier. 

It's an excellent addition to your hair care arsenal, especially if you're dealing with hair loss or looking to boost your hair growth. 

Find out what makes this the most trusted hair growth product for black women today by seeing the results firsthand over on our product page. Or, learn more about African American hair growth in our blog. Because at this point, it’s time we wrapped up this guide on how to detangle matted African American hair.

Final Thoughts on How to Detangle Matted African American Hair

We understand that dealing with severely matted African American hair can be a daunting task. But with the right knowledge, tools, and products, it can be done. Remember, the key is patience, gentleness, and consistency.

With the tips and tricks we've shared, we hope you're feeling more confident about tackling matted hair and maintaining a healthy hair care regimen. Just imagine the feeling of running your fingers through soft, detangled hair - that's a reality you can achieve with proper care and the right products.

At Allurium Beauty, we’re here to guide you towards this dream. We have more resources to help you along the way, including blog posts on how fast black hair grows, how to regrow bald patches in African American hair, how to regrow edges of African American hair, the signs of balding in women, hair growth genetics, foods for black hair growth, and more.

Ready to start your journey towards healthier, happier hair? Turn that dream into reality today with Allurium. Visit our shop to discover our Hair Growth Serum and start your path to lush, vibrant locks. Your dream hair is just a click away!