If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of dealing with matted hair after braids, don’t worry – there are methods you can use to get your locks back in good shape. While tangled and matted hair can be extremely frustrating, these simple techniques will help restore shine and health to your hair without hours spent brushing or harsh treatments that may damage already delicate strands. Read on for our practical advice on how to detangle matted hair after braids without unnecessary stress or worrying about breakage!

When it comes to styling our hair, getting braids is one of the most popular options. From cornrows and box braids to Senegalese twist and faux locs, they can give you just about any look! Though there’s no doubt that braid styles are beautiful, dealing with matted hair after you take them out is a major frustration. To help make sure your mane is in perfect condition when taking out your braids, here are some useful tips for detangling matted hair.
Why May You Want to Detangle Matted Hair After Braids?
1. To Reduce the Chances of Hair Breakage
One of the main reasons for detangling matte hair after braiding is to reduce the chances of breakage. Matted hair is typically tangled, dry, and prone to split ends due to it not receiving enough moisture and nourishment from natural oils. If left untreated, the hair can become further matted together and more difficult to detangle resulting in multiple strands breaking off when trying to undo the knots.
2. To Avoid Hair Loss and Traction Alopecia
If matted hair is repeatedly pulled or tugged on, this can cause tension in the scalp which can lead to traction alopecia – a type of permanent hair loss that occurs due to constant strain being put on the scalp and hair follicles. Detangling matted braids is essential in order to prevent this from occurring.
3. To Help Hair Re-Grow
Matted hair can also inhibit hair growth and lead to patches of baldness. By detangling the matted strands, it helps to open up the scalp and encourages new hair growth while restoring strength and volume to existing locks. It also stimulates blood flow around areas that may have been neglected due to the matted strands.
Overall, detangling matted hair after braiding can have a range of positive effects on your hair condition, helping to protect it from further damage and encouraging healthy growth in the future. Taking proper steps to gently work out any knots or tangles can help to keep your locks looking glossy, strong, and voluminous.
How to Detangle Matted Hair After Braids in 6 Easy Steps
Step 1: Gather All The Tools You Will Need

The very first step is to gather all the tools you will need for detangling matted hair. This includes a large-toothed comb or detangling brush, a spray bottle filled with water and conditioner, and some leave-in oil or serum.
Step 2: Start With Wet Hair
It is best to start with wet hair when working on detangling matted hair. This helps to loosen the knots and makes it easier for a comb or detangling brush to run through the hair smoothly.
Step 3: Apply Oil Or Conditioner
After drenching the hair with water, apply some oil or conditioner before starting the detangling process. Start by applying a generous amount of leave-in conditioner or serum from root to tip. The oil will help to break down the knots and make it easier to comb through the hair.
Step 4: Use A Wide-Toothed Comb
Using a wide-toothed comb, start detangling gently from the ends of your hair and work your way up toward the roots. Take your time and be very gentle so as not to cause any breakage.
Step 5: Separate The Hair Into Sections
To make the process easier, separate the hair into sections and detangle each section individually. This will help you pay more attention to areas that need extra care while avoiding over-tangling certain areas of the hair.
Step 6: Use A Leave-In Conditioner Or Oil For Extra Protection
When you are done detangling the hair, apply a leave-in conditioner or oil to help protect the hair from any further damage. This will also add extra moisture and sheen to your strands, giving them a healthy look.
By following these simple steps, you can easily get rid of any matted hair and achieve smooth and manageable tresses. With the right tools and techniques, you can have beautiful hair in no time!
Remember to be gentle and take your time when detangling matted hair after braids. This will help keep your hair healthy and strong for years to come!
Some Extra Tips to Detangle Matted Hair After Braids
1. Do Not Use a Brush

This is the most important tip when detangling matted hair after braids. Brushes are designed to be used on loose, non-matted hair and can pull at those tangled strands, causing further irritation and pain. Instead of using a brush, use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb for gentle detangling.
2. Use Detangling Products
There are many detangling products on the market that can help you get rid of matted hair after braids. Look for products that contain natural ingredients such as coconut oil, shea butter, or jojoba oil, which will help to soften and hydrate your strands while loosening knots and tangles.
3. Take Your Time
It is important to take your time when detangling matted hair after braids. Start at the bottom and slowly work your way up, using your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to gently loosen knots and tangles. Be sure to be gentle as you do not want to cause any damage or breakage.
4. Use Conditioner
Conditioner is key when it comes to detangling matted hair after braids. Apply a generous amount of conditioner to your strands and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before you start the detangling process. This will help soften and lubricate the hair, making it easier to comb through.
5. Use Protein Treatments
If you are dealing with severely matted hair after braids, a protein treatment may be necessary. Protein treatments help to strengthen and repair the hair, making it easier to detangle without causing any breakage or damage. Apply a protein-rich deep conditioner or mask to your strands and let it sit for 15-30 minutes before rinsing out with cold water.
Following these tips can help you effectively detangle matted hair after braids, without causing any damage or breakage. Taking the time to properly care for your strands will help keep them healthy and strong over time. With a little patience and some TLC, you can easily get rid of those pesky knots and tangles!
Frequently Asked Question
What Precautions Should I Take Before Detangling Matted Hair?

Before attempting to detangle matted hair after braids, it is important to be aware of the potential damage that can be caused by aggressive or inappropriate detangling techniques. To avoid causing further damage, begin with a good pre-treatment before trying to remove the knots and tangles. Use a hydrating conditioner or oil to saturate the hair before attempting to detangle. This will help soften the strands and make them more pliable for detangling. Additionally, use a wide-tooth comb or paddle brush with soft bristles to gently separate and remove knots without causing breakage or pulling out too much hair.
How Can I Get Rid of Matted Hair After Braids?
When detangling matted hair after braids, it is important to use patience and gentleness. Begin by sectioning the hair into manageable parts and lightly spritz each section with a water bottle or leave-in conditioner spray. This will help loosen up the tangles for easier removal. Use a wide-tooth comb or paddle brush to gently remove knots and tangles. It is best to do this in small sections, starting from the bottom of the strand up toward the root. If a knot is particularly stubborn, try using your fingers to separate it before attempting to use a comb or brush. Once all of the knots have been removed, you can apply more conditioner or oil throughout each section for extra moisture and shine.
What Are Some Tips for Avoiding Matted Hair After Braids?
To prevent matted hair after braids, it is important to keep your scalp and hair hydrated. Regular deep conditioning treatments with a moisturizing conditioner can help reduce the risk of knots and tangles that cause matted hair. Additionally, use products specifically designed for braid styles and avoid leaving your hair in a braid for too long. If you must leave your braids in for an extended period of time, use a satin or silk sleep bonnet to help keep the strands from rubbing together and matting overnight.

Conclusion
With all the tips and tricks on how to detangle matted hair after braids discussed in this blog post, you’re now equipped with a comprehensive guide on how to properly detangle matted hair after braids. Taking the time to care for your scalp and hair in between styles will help ensure a healthy, long-lasting hairstyle.
Furthermore, allowing enough drying time can help keep mats from forming and reduce the severity of tangles that may need to be addressed down the line. Consider investing in specialized tools such as a mane comb or mat breaker to help with stubborn knots. Remember, “no tangle” is always better than “tangled”! Take the time to nourish your locks and enjoy your beautiful braids for days!
About the Author
Jane Hubbard is a passionate beauty expert with a wealth of experience in makeup, hair, and overall beauty techniques. After years of working as a hairdresser specialist, she followed her entrepreneurial spirit and started her own consultancy business.
Jane has always been driven by her desire to help others feel confident in their own skin, and she does this by sharing her knowledge, experiences, and practical beauty tips. Through her consultancy, she empowers individuals to embrace their unique beauty, offering tailored guidance that boosts both self-esteem and personal style.
Professional Focus
- Specializes in makeup, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Provides personalized beauty advice, tips, and techniques to help individuals feel confident in their appearance.
- Dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and developments.
- Passionate about creating a comfortable and empowering experience for every client.
Education History
- University of Craft and Design – Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Woodworking and Furniture Design
- Woodworking Apprenticeships – Extensive hands-on training with skilled craftsmen to refine carpentry and furniture making techniques
- Online Courses & Masterclasses – Continued education in advanced woodworking techniques, design principles, and specialized tools
Expertise:
- Makeup artistry, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Personalized beauty techniques to enhance confidence and self-expression.
- Educating clients on how to maintain their beauty routines at home.