Skip to content
Masterfully Detangling Curly Hair Without Causing Damage
Ever run your fingers through your curls and hit a tangle the size of a mouse? You're not alone! Detangling curly hair can feel like an uphill battle, but it doesn't have to end in breakage, frizz, or frustration. With the right tools, hair care products, and techniques, you can keep your curls knot-free and thriving. Check out the step-by-step guide below for our Wuli wisdom on detangling curls gently without causing damage.
Detangle with confidence and keep your curls as healthy as they are fabulous!
What makes curly hair so prone to tangles and knots?
Curly hair is a bit like a slinky—full of twists and turns, with a vibey bounce when held just right. Each curl creates its own little opportunity for strands to loop around each other, making them vulnerable to tangles and knots. Add in dryness—more common in curly hair, as natural oils can find it slow going getting out to the ends—as well as a little extra friction from hats or pillowcases, and a pinch of product build-up, and you have yourself the perfect recipe for treacherous tangles. The key is to treat your curls gently and give them the moisture and care they crave.
What tools do you need to detangle your curls?
That cylindrical roller brush may look perfectly shaped for your curls, but keep a safe distance when you have tangles to tackle. When it comes to detangling curly hair, not all brushes are created equal. Here are a few to keep in your curl care quiver:
- Wide-tooth comb: This is a classic option that glides through curls without pulling or snapping.
- Wuli Brush: Designed specifically for curls, this curl & scalp brush flexes with your hair and helps distribute products evenly.
- Detangling brushes: Look for options with flexible bristles that bow and bend rather than tug.
Pro tip: Always choose tools with smooth, rounded tips and avoid anything that feels scratchy or rough.
How to detangle wet vs dry curly hair
Whether you should detangle wet or dry hair depends on your hair and what works best for you. Typically, however, curly-haired folks find detangling much easier when their hair is wet.
Top tips for detangling wet curly hair
Always use a slippery conditioner or detangling spray. Detangle in the shower or immediately after washing while your hair is still saturated. Work in sections for better control.
Top tips for detangling dry curly hair
If you prefer to detangle dry, use a lightweight oil or nourishing curl cream to add some slip and always be patient and gentle. Dry detangling can work for looser curls or if you're prepping for a protective style, but it does tend to be riskier for breakage.
Step-by-step guide to genty detangling curly hair
Ready to tackle those knots? Here's how to detangle curly hair without causing damage:
- Start with moisturised, conditioned hair. Apply a generous amount of leave-in conditioner or detangling spray.
- Section your hair. Use clips to divide your hair into manageable segments. Don't overwhelm your brush, or the knots can't work their way through.
- Begin at the ends. Always start detangling at the tips and work your way up to the roots. This prevents knots from tightening.
- Use your fingers first. Gently loosen larger tangles with your fingers before using a comb or brush.
- Comb or brush slowly and gently. Glide your wide-tooth comb or detangling brush through each section, patiently applying light pressure.
- Reapply product as needed. If you hit a stubborn knot, a little extra leave-in conditioner can help loosen the logjam.
- Take your time! Rushing is a slippery slope to breakage.
How often should you detangle your curls?
Most people with curly or wavy hair find detangling post-wash is enough. Daily detangling can cause unnecessary stress and breakage, but it may be necessary for particularly thick curls. If your curls are unusually susceptible to tangles, a gentle finger detangle after each non-wash bath or shower can help.
Above all, listen to your hair! If it feels rough or looks frizzy, you might be over-detangling. If knots are big and stubborn when you detangle, you may need to do so more often.