Detangling your hair without damaging it: the professional technique
Detangling hair: a daily task we think we've mastered, but which is often the cause of a lot of damage to our hair. Brittle hair, split ends, loss of shine... What if the problem was your technique?
In this article, we reveal the secrets of professional detangling for healthy, strong and beautiful hair.
Why is proper detangling so important?
very strand of hair is precious. Brushing too aggressively, especially on wet hair (when it is most vulnerable), stretches the hair fibre to its breaking point. Repeated day after day, this bad habit weakens your hair, makes it dull and promotes frizz.
Adopting the right method preserves the health of your hair, protects your colour and ensures your hairstyle stays beautiful for longer.
The golden rule: always start at the ends
The most common mistake is to try to detangle hair starting at the roots. Doing so pushes knots downwards, causing them to accumulate and create a ‘tangle’ that is impossible to undo without pulling and therefore... breaking.
The professional technique is simple: always detangle from the ends towards the roots.
Our step-by-step guide to perfect detangling
Separate your hair: Divide your hair into several sections (two to four depending on its thickness). Working on smaller areas allows you to be gentler and more effective.
Start at the ends: Take a section and hold it firmly halfway down. Using your wide-toothed comb or brush, gently start detangling the last few centimetres at the ends.
Work your way up gradually: Once the ends are completely detangled, move up a few centimetres and repeat the process. Continue in this way, working your way up gradually until you reach the roots. Your comb should glide through your hair without resistance.
Repeat on all sections: Repeat the same process for each section of your hair.
The final step (optional): Once all sections are detangled, you can give your hair a final brush from roots to ends to smooth it and distribute natural oils.
The tools that make the difference
- n wet hair: Use a wide-toothed comb. This is the gentlest tool for removing knots without breaking hair fibres weakened by water. For extra help, apply a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray before you start.
- On dry hair: A boar bristle brush is ideal. It effectively detangles while smoothing the cuticles and adding shine. For stubborn knots, a brush with soft bristles can also be an excellent option.
Pro tip
Never rush! Detangling should be a gentle process. If you encounter a stubborn knot, don't force it. Isolate the strand, apply a drop of serum or hair oil to help loosen the knot, and use your fingers to gently untangle it before combing through again.
Ready to transform your hair care routine? For deep conditioning treatments and personalised advice on your hair type, feel free to book an appointment at our salon. Our experts will be delighted to help you achieve the hair of your dreams.
