The Best Way to Detangle Curly Hair

If you have naturally curly hair, then you know detangling can be time consuming — and even damaging — if done the wrong way or with the wrong tools. But there is a right way to detangle curly hair, and it’s just all about knowing how to do it. But, should you try detangling your curly hair when it’s wet or dry? And should you use a brush or a comb? These may be questions that come to mind. If so, read on for our step-by-step instructions for detangling curly hair the right way, without breaking or ripping your strands or disrupting the shape of your spirals.

How to Detangle Curly Hair

If your idea of detangling your curly strands involves simply picking up your hair brush and going at it, think again. Not only will that be painful, it can also cause your hair to snap and break. Instead, there’s an easier and much less painful way to detangle your beautiful curls.

1. Start With Damp Or Wet Hair

First things first, detangling curly hair is easier when your hair is wet. Before you start detangling, hop in the shower and use L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Curls Moisture Push Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Curls Moisture Seal Conditioner just like you normally would. Remember, however, that your hair is at its most fragile when it’s wet, so you’ll want to be extra gentle during the detangling process. That’s where the next two steps come into play.

2. Add Leave-In Conditioner

After you’ve washed and conditioned your strands as usual, apply a leave-in conditioner like the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Super Curls Cream Leave-In to help make the process even easier. Focus on the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair.

3. Grab A Wide-Tooth Comb

This isn't a job for your brush — the best tool to use to detangle curly hair would have to be a wide-tooth comb. Pick up your comb and move on to the next step.

4. Work From The Bottom Up

Think about it: Where are your tangles? They’re probably toward the ends of your hair, right? So, starting from the top and combing downward will just make them bigger and more tangled. Instead, grab your wide tooth comb and gently glide it through your hair starting at the bottom. 

You’ll have to work in small sections and be patient, but it’ll pay off. With each small section of hair, start combing very gently, working from the bottom upward. Repeat this until your entire head is tangle-free and combed through.

5. Apply a Hair Serum

Once you’ve achieved tangle-free hair, you’ll want to apply a nourishing hair serum onto your smooth strands. Doing so will help keep your strands healthy and, in turn, keep your curls looking their very best, which includes remaining as tangle-free as possible. Apply a dime-sized amount of the L'Oréal Paris Elvive Hyaluron + Plump Moisture Plump Serum, Paraben-Free onto the lengths and ends of your hair, then comb through again (or use your fingers) to make sure that the product is evenly distributed.

How to Brush Curly Hair

Having curly hair doesn't mean you can never use a hair brush. Just make sure your hair is completely dry before breaking out your brush, because while combs are amazing tools for wet hair, using a brush on wet strands can result in breakage. 

As for the type of brush to use, skip plastic bristles. A natural bristle brush, on the other hand, will be perfect for your hair type. Once you have one in hand, start with a small section of hair and gently brush your ends, then work your way up slowly through your mid-lengths and finally up to your roots. 

Brushing out curls can sometimes cause them to frizz, so if that happens, turn to a powerful yet light leave-in hair mousse like the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle Curve It Elastic Curl Mousse to fight the frizz while still showcasing your beautiful curls.

Next: 10 Super Stylish Ponytail Upgrades for Curly Hair

Edited by: Témi Adebowale, Photo credit: Pearl Parker, IG/@itsjustpearl1, Design: Sarah Duvivier