Glossary
Detangling
Definition
Detangling is gently removing knots from hair, ideally from the ends upward, to limit pulling and breakage. Support the hair above the knot with your other hand so the root is not tugged, and loosen stubborn knots with your fingers instead of forcing a comb through. The American Academy of Dermatology advises using a wide-tooth comb rather than a brush on wet hair, and wet or damp hair is often more vulnerable to stretching. Detangle before sectioning, so pieces are even. See also: Wide-tooth comb, Sectioning, Leave-in conditioner.