How to Detangle Curly Hair

If you have curly hair, then you know that trying to run a brush through it can often be quite the challenge. You know what we’re talking about: those dreaded tangles. Yep, you’ve probably dealt with knots from time to time if you have curly hair. They’re no fun, are they? The thing is, there is a right way to detangle curly hair—so it’s 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? Follow our step-by-step instructions for detangling curly hair, then learn about our best hair care products for curly hair.

Step 1: Start with Damp or Wet Hair

Detangling curly hair is easier when your hair is wet. So, hop in the shower and use shampoo and conditioner before getting down to it. Remember though that your hair is at its most fragile when it’s wet, so you’ll want to be gentle during the detangling process. That’s where the next two steps come into play.

Step 2: Add Leave-in Conditioner

If you find that your curly hair is especially difficult to comb through, spritz on a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray to help make the process more effortless. Focus on the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair.

Step 3: Grab a Wide Tooth Comb

Bye bye, brush! The best tool to use to detangle curly hair would have to be a wide toothcomb.

Step 4: Work from the Bottom Up

Think about it: Where are your tangles? They’re probably towards the ends of your hair, right? Grab your wide tooth comb and gently glide it through your hair starting at the bottom. You’re done!

Our Best Products for Curly Hair

Now that you know how to detangle curly hair, revamp your entire hair care routine with the following curly hair products. Then go on and show off those gorgeous spirals!

L’Oréal Paris Hair Expert EverCurl HydraCharge Shampoo + L’Oréal Paris Hair Expert EverCurl HydraCharge Conditioner: Curly hair care starts in the shower with shampoo and conditioner. The EverCurl Sulfate-Free Curl Care System gently cares for your curls. It quenches and softens, perfecting each curl’s shape. Curls feel softer and more manageable.

L’Oréal Paris Hair Expert EverCurl Sculpt & Hold Cream-Gel: This curly hair styling product combines the care of a rich hydrating cream that conditions and a styling gel that shapes without weighing hair down. Curls remain smooth and hydrated. After using the above shampoo and conditioner, dispense 1-2 pumps evenly through clean, towel-dried hair. Let curls air dry or blow-dry with a diffuser. (Read our article, How to Blow-Dry Curly Hair, for more tips on this.)

L’Oréal Paris EverCurl Cleansing Balm: For those curly-haired girls who are in favor of using multitasking products, consider trying a cleansing balm. This one cleanses, conditions, treats, detangles, softens, and adds shine. Curls are rehydrated, shiny, and bouncy. To use, apply 6-8 pumps to wet hair. For longer hair, you may need to use additional pumps. Massage it gently and distribute evenly throughout your hair until fully saturated. Leave in for 3-5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. You don’t have to follow up with a separate conditioner. (Want to know more about cleansing balms? Read our article, What Is Cleansing Balm—and How Do You Use It?)

L’Oréal Paris Hair Expert Extraordinary Oil Curls Shampoo + L’Oréal Paris Hair Expert Extraordinary Oils Conditioner + L’Oréal Paris Hair Expert Extraordinary Oil Curls Re-Nourish Mask: Curly hair looking a little limp these days? The Extraordinary Oil Curl system instantly transforms lifeless curls into bouncy, defined, and lustrous.

You’re officially ready to go! You can now detangle your curly hair like a pro. Want more curly hair advice? We’ve got you covered. Check out our articles, 8 Must-Have Products for Girls with Curls and 5 Ways to Style Curly Hair When It’s Hot Outside.