Few things are as frustrating as running your fingers, or a brush, through your hair only to hit a stubborn knot.
Whether your hair is curly, straight, fine, or thick, tangling is one of the most common (and annoying) hair struggles. But constant tangling isn’t just a styling issue, it’s often a sign that your strands are craving a little more care.
Understanding why your hair tangles in the first place is the first step toward smoother, more manageable hair.
Why hair tangles easily
Tangles form when individual strands wrap around each other and create knots. According to celebrity hairstylist Ursula Stephen, the main culprits are dryness, damage, and friction. “When your hair lacks moisture, the cuticle layer becomes rough and raised, causing strands to catch onto each other,” she explains. Heat styling, chemical treatments, and even tight hairstyles can all make tangles worse by weakening the hair shaft.
Longer hair types are more prone to tangling since the ends are older and more fragile. Curly and coily textures can also tangle more easily due to the natural bends and loops in each strand. Environmental factors like wind or sleeping without a silk scarf or pillowcase can also lead to knotting and matting overnight.
How to prevent and fix tangles
Start with moisture. Use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner, then follow up with a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray to keep strands slippery and smooth. “Think of moisture as your hair’s armor,” Stephen says. “The more hydrated your hair is, the less likely it is to tangle.”
When detangling, always work in sections and start from the ends, slowly working your way up to the roots. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers, never yank through knots. For curly or textured hair, detangle while your hair is damp and coated with conditioner to minimize breakage.
To prevent tangles overnight, switch to a silk or satin pillowcase, or wrap your hair in a silk bonnet or scarf. Protective styles like braids, twists, or loose buns can also help minimize friction and knots.
Ultimately, the secret to tangle-free hair is consistent care, hydration, gentle handling, and the right tools. With a few mindful tweaks, your brush will glide through your hair like silk in no time.
