Mats in human hair can be caused by dirt and debris in the hair. The hair will mat after the dirt and debris combines with a tangle in the hair. Mats are uncomfortable and painful to remove if the correct hair care products and styling tools are not used. Adhering to a hair care routine will prevent tangles and mats in human hair. Using a pillow made from non-synthetic materials and only sleeping with dry hair are two tips for avoiding hair mats.

Wet the hair and apply shampoo to remove any dirt or debris. Rinse out the shampoo.

Apply conditioner to the hair and let the conditioner soak in the hair for several minutes.

Hold the matted piece of hair by the root to prevent pulling the hair. Pull the comb through the mat, starting at the top and working down toward the ends. If the comb stops at any point in the mat, use short, quick strokes to loosen the hair.

Apply more conditioner or a spray detangler as needed.

Rinse out the conditioner after the mats are removed and let the hair dry.