Are you tired of constantly struggling to detangle matted hair? Preventing and dealing with matted hair is all about maintaining a consistent hair care routine, keeping your hair moisturized, and using protective measures. Whether you're working through tangles daily or just want to ensure your hair remains healthy, here are tips to keep your healthy:
What Is Matted Hair?
We all heard the term “matted hair” but what actually causes it? It occurs when strands become entwined, forming knots and tangles that are difficult to manage. Unlike regular tangling, matting is more severe and can result in stubborn clumps that are challenging to detangle without causing damage.
If left untreated, matted hair can lead to breakage, damage to the scalp, and in severe cases, may require professional intervention to detangle or cut it out. Regular brushing, moisturizing, and proper hair care can help prevent matting. This condition isn't limited to people with long hair or specific hair types. It can affect anyone, regardless of their hair length or texture. Knowing what matted hair is and recognizing it early can help you take steps to prevent it from becoming a bigger issue.
Matted hair can happen due to a variety of reasons, including:
Neglect or lack of regular brushing⎯Hair that isn't combed or detangled regularly can easily become matted.
Product buildup⎯Excessive use of hair products without proper washing can lead to residue accumulating on the hair, which can exacerbate matting.
Environmental factors⎯Wind, humidity, and other environmental conditions can cause tangling and matting.
Damaged hair⎯Hair that is dry, chemically treated, or damaged can be more prone to tangling and matting.
Sleeping without proper protection⎯Sleeping without tying hair back or using a satin pillowcase can also lead to matting, especially for those with curly or textured hair.
Unraveling The Knots
Start by gently applying a detangling spray or conditioner to soften the knots. This step is important because it minimizes damage while working through the tangles. Next, use a wide-toothed comb to carefully work through the knots, starting from the ends and gradually moving towards the roots. Avoid using excessive force, as this can lead to breakage and further matting. If the tangles are particularly stubborn, consider using a detangling brush designed to glide through knots without damaging the hair. Regularly incorporating these tools and techniques into your hair care routine can make a significant difference in managing matted hair.
Preventing Matted Hair
The Right Tools
A detangling brush is key for maintaining healthy hair. Also, a wide-tooth comb works well for our curlfriends. Be sure your comb or detangling brush is clean and free of product buildup before use to avoid adding more tangles. When combing your hair, start from the ends and work your way up to the roots.
Hydration For Hair Health
Hydration will help prevent matted hair. Well-hydrated hair is less likely to tangle and break, leading to healthier, more manageable locks. Ensure you're drinking enough water daily to maintain overall hydration levels. Consider using a humidifier during colder months. Dry indoor air can strip your hair of moisture, leading to increased tangling. A humidifier adds moisture back into the environment, helping to keep your hair hydrated.
Regular Trims
Trimming your hair every six to eight weeks helps remove split ends and reduce tangling. It also promotes healthy growth by keeping your hair in optimal condition. When hair isn’t trimmed often, damaged ends can contribute to tangling and matting. By removing these damaged ends, your hair remains smoother and more manageable. Regular trims can make a significant difference in the overall health of your hair.
Protective Hairstyles
Protective hairstyles can help prevent matted hair by reducing friction and exposure to environmental factors. Styles like braids, twists, and buns keep your hair secure and reduce the chances of tangling, especially during sleep or physical activities. Make sure the style isn't too tight, as this can lead to breakage and damage. Regularly change your hairstyles to prevent stress on specific areas of the scalp.
Establishing A Haircare Routine
Consistency is key when it comes to maintaining healthy, tangle-free hair. Establish a regular hair care routine that includes washing, conditioning, and styling. Pay attention to your hair's needs and adjust your routine as needed.
Choosing The Right Hair Products
Using the right hair products can be a game-changer in preventing and managing matted hair. Here are the EDEN products we recommend:
Peppermint Tea Tree Detangling Conditioner⎯Benefits: moisturizing, scalp circulation + detangling
Coconut Shea Cleansing CoWash⎯great slip for easy detangling
Lavender Aloe Leave In⎯gives daily moisture to prevent matting
