Discovering matting or tangling at the root of your keratin extensions can be a stressful moment. It often feels like a solid “nest” of hair that can’t be undone. However, before you reach for the scissors, know this: most matting is reversible with the right technique and a little patience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the professional “Slide & Separate” method to restore your hair’s health without losing a single inch.
Why Does Matting Happen at the Root?
Understanding the cause helps in prevention. Root matting usually occurs due to:
Natural Shedding: We lose 50-100 hairs a day. These shed hairs stay trapped in the bond area and wrap around neighboring extensions.
Improper Drying: Leaving the roots damp after washing softens the keratin and encourages hairs to “mesh” together.
Skipping Brushing: Not using a specialized loop brush to reach the scalp allows small tangles to grow into large mats.
Essential Tools for Pain-Free Detangling
To fix matting safely, you need tools that minimize friction on the hair cuticle:
- Professional Bond Remover or Pure Hair Oil: To lubricate the matted area.
- Fine-Tooth Rat Tail Comb: For precise separation.
- Sectioning Clips: To isolate the problematic area.
- A Wide-Tooth Comb: For the initial gentle detangle.
The Step-by-Step “Slide & Separate” Protocol
Step 1: Isolate the Mat
Use your sectioning clips to move all healthy hair away from the matted area. You need a clear view of the “knot” where the natural regrowth meets the keratin bond.
Step 2: Lubricate with “Slip”
Apply a generous amount of Bond Remover (or a high-quality hair oil) directly onto the mat. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes. This lubricates the hair scales, allowing the trapped shed hairs to slide out rather than snap.
Step 3: Horizontal Separation
Do not pull vertically. Instead, use your fingers to gently pry the bonds apart horizontally. If two keratin tips are stuck together, focus on sliding them away from each other side-to-side.
Step 4: Use the Rat Tail Tip
Insert the metal tip of a rat-tail comb into the center of the mat. Gently wiggle it to create small openings. Full Shine Expert Tip: Always work from the bottom of the mat (closest to the bond) upwards toward the scalp.
When to See a Professional
If the matting involves more than 3 bonds or if the hair has started to “felt” (become a solid fabric-like texture), stop.
The “Tension Test”: If you feel sharp pain on your scalp while trying to separate the hair, the mat is too close to the root. A stylist can use a Removal Plier to safely crush the bond and release the hair without damage.
Prevention: How to Stop Matting Before It Starts
The Finger-Separation Rule: Every morning, run your fingers between your bonds to ensure they are all sitting individually.
Dry Your Roots: Always use a hair dryer on a cool/medium setting to ensure the “bond-zone” is 100% dry.
Maintenance Schedule: Never exceed 10-12 weeks without a professional move-up.
Summary FAQ
Can I use conditioner to detangle? No. Conditioner can cause the keratin bond to prematurely soften and slip. Use dedicated oils or removers instead.
Will I lose hair? You will see hair come out—this is just the accumulated shed hair that was trapped for weeks. It is not new hair loss!
