How to Handle Matted African American Hair

African American hair is prone to tangles and matting.

African American hair is generally quite fragile. Due to the shape of the curls, the oils from the scalp do not make it to the ends of the hair easily. That lack of moisture can easily lead to mats, tangles and brittle locks. Without proper care, the mats can be tough to comb out. The process of combing out the mats can damage the rest of the hair. Learn how to handle matted African American hair and keep it in superb condition.

Things You'll Need

• Leave-in conditioner
• Wide-tooth comb
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Spray leave-in conditioner directly on the mats. Put on enough that the mats are soaked with conditioner.

2. Put the teeth of a wide-tooth comb into the middle of the mat. Gingerly comb the mat from the ends of the hair and up towards the top of the hair.

3. Snip a small piece of the mat out of your hair. Use this method if you are unable to comb it out using leave-in conditioner. Hold the matted hair in your hand. Put the point of a pair of scissors in the center of it. Cut a small snip of hair out of the mat. User this opening to fit your wide-toothed comb and carefully comb out the mat.

4. Visit a hairstylist to get mats cut out of your hair. If you are unable to handle the matted hair at home, turn to a professional. Ask the stylist to cut the mats out. This generally leads to a whole new hairstyle as a chunk of hair will be missing.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply a hydrating deep conditioner to your hair once per week.

References

• Hair Finder: Matted Knots
• "Ladies Home Journal"; Black Hair Care Basics; Urja Dave; August 2009