As a general rule of thumb, don’t brush your hair when it’s wet, as wet hair is more prone to damage and breakage. Instead, use a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle your hair. [3] X Expert Source Patrick EvanProfessional Hair Stylist Expert Interview. 17 January 2019.
When you wash your hair, work the shampoo in a downwards motion from the roots to the tips. Do not work the shampoo up the hair as this can cause the hair to tangle more. Don’t wash your hair every day, as this can strip your hair of oils, leaving it dry and more prone to breakage. [6] X Expert Source Patrick EvanProfessional Hair Stylist Expert Interview. 17 January 2019.
It is important that you use a comb and not a brush for this step. If you have thick, coarse, and tightly curled hair, condition your hair twice daily as opposed to just once. Condition once in the morning or after you shampoo your hair, and again before bed with a moisturizer, leave-in conditioner, or dry conditioner. [8] X Research source
If you must blow dry your hair, towel and air dry it until the hair is mostly dry. This will help cut down on the blow dryer time. If using a hair dryer, never point the nozzle up towards the roots. Instead, work it down the strands towards the tips to help protect the cuticle of your hair. Always use a heat protectant spray when blow-drying your hair, as it can help you avoid any potential heat damage. [10] X Expert Source Patrick EvanProfessional Hair Stylist Expert Interview. 17 January 2019.
To deep condition, work a quarter-sized dollop of deep conditioner into your hair. Wrap your head with a shower cap or plastic wrap, and allow it to rest for 30 minutes to an hour before rinsing. [12] X Research source
Another way to seal your hair is to switch your hair dryer to its cool setting. Blow the cool air over your hair, starting up near the roots and moving downwards towards the tips. This step can be skipped if you have fine or medium hair, but should be followed for hair that’s thick, coarse, and tightly curled.
You can also protect your hair from knots by using hair styles that stretch your hair, such as twists, braids, and buns.
Prevent damage to your hair and scalp by positioning your buns and ponytails in different spots on your head every time, and always make sure that such hair styles are loose. When you are finished exercising, let your hair down. This will help sweat evaporate from your scalp.
You can also wear a satin bonnet or wrap your hair with a protective fabric to prevent knotting when you sleep. [14] X Research source
As you detangle the bottom of that section of hair, move up the strands and continue removing knots until you reach the top of your hair.
Divide the section of hair into even smaller sections if you have trouble running the comb through. Add more conditioner as needed to help loosen knots.
