How Often to Comb Natural Hair? Maintaining Healthy Hair

Medically reviewedby Dr. Bilal Khan M.B.B.S.
WrittenbyDr. Edna Skopljak, M.D.
Last updated

Dr. Bilal Khan M.B.B.S earned his medical doctorate at Sindh Medical College, Jinnah Sindh Medical University in Karachi, Pakistan. In September 2023, he successfully passed the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), achieving certification to practice medicine internationally. Read more...

Combing natural hair requires careful consideration to avoid excessive breakage and damage. With the right approach and techniques, you can maintain the health of your natural hair and prevent unnecessary breakage. Here's everything you need to know about how often you should comb your natural hair.

How Often Should You Comb Natural Hair?

The frequency of combing natural hair can vary depending on your hair type, texture, and styling preferences. However, in general, it is recommended to comb natural hair once or twice a day. This frequency allows you to detangle and style your hair while minimizing the risk of causing damage.

Why you can trust Scandinavian Biolabs?

As your leading source for hair health information over the past 4 years, we never compromise on accuracy. When it comes to your health, you deserve information you can truly rely on - and earning your trust is our top priority.

Here's how Scandinavian Biolabs ensures every piece of content meets the highest standards of accuracy and integrity:

  • Credentialed Experts: Our reviewers are actively practicing doctors and medical researchers
  • Stringent Reviews: Content undergoes rigorous editing by subject specialists and review by a practicing doctor.
  • Evidence-Based: We rely on well-established research from trusted scientific sources like peer-reviewed journals and health authorities.
  • Full Transparency: Our editorial standards, writer credentials, reviewer credentials, correction process, and funding are all publicly documented.
  • Independent Voice: While we do promote products, we operate in a vacuum to business operations. Our main goal is just an unwavering commitment to providing medically-sound guidance.

You can count on Scandinavian Biolabs to consistently deliver the trustworthy health information you deserve. Read our Editorial Standards.

TrichoAI Hair Loss Analysis
Our free, anonymous and dermatologist-developed AI analyzes your hair loss in 30 seconds, suggesting personalized solutions to combat thinning. Understanding your hair condition has never been easier.
Yes, I want to fix hair loss

Tips for Combing Natural Hair

When combing your natural hair, follow these tips to ensure the best results:

  • Start by wetting your hair with water or using a leave-in conditioner to soften the strands and make them more manageable.
  • Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush specifically designed for natural hair to gently work through the knots and tangles.
  • Begin combing from the ends and work your way up to the roots to minimize breakage.
  • Be patient and gentle when encountering knots or tangles. Use your fingers or a detangling spray to help loosen them before combing.
  • Avoid excessive force or pulling to prevent damage to the hair shaft.
  • Consider using a comb with wide-spaced teeth or your fingers for detangling to minimize breakage.
  • Use a detangling spray or apply a small amount of conditioner to provide slip and make the combing process easier.
  • If you have tightly coiled or highly textured hair, you may prefer to finger-detangle or use a wide-tooth comb while your hair is wet and saturated with conditioner.

Protective Styling for Natural Hair

Incorporating protective styles into your hair care routine can help minimize the need for frequent combing. Protective styles such as braids, twists, buns, or updos help to keep your hair tucked away and reduce manipulation. These styles can help preserve the health and length of your natural hair and reduce the risk of breakage.

Conclusion

When it comes to combing natural hair, it's important to find a balance between maintaining the health of your hair and minimizing breakage. Aim to comb your hair once or twice a week using gentle techniques and tools designed for natural hair. Remember to be patient, use proper detangling methods, and consider incorporating protective styles into your routine. With the right care and attention, your natural hair will flourish and thrive.

Discover the benefits of the Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Growth Routine. Formulated to nourish and enhance the appearance of hair thickness, this routine aims to provide you with healthier-looking hair. Elevate your confidence with a new look!

Reference:

https://www.healthline.com/health/brushing-hair

Dr. Edna Skopljak, M.D.

About the Writer

Edna Skopljak, MDUniversity of Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine

Edna Skopljak, MD is a clinical doctor at the University Medical Center Ljubljana and a PhD candidate in Biomedicine at the University of Ljubljana. She combines clinical work with research and medical editing, bringing a clear, evidence-based lens to patient education. Previously, she held roles in the pharmaceutical sector (product management and chief medical officer) and served as a medical production editor for the journal Biomolecules and Biomedicine.

Dr. Skopljak’s publications span clinical topics, including urology and orthopedics. She has co-authored work affiliated with the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at University Medical Centre Ljubljana. She trained in medicine with early clinical experience in Slovenia, reflecting a long-standing focus on practical, patient-facing care.

She strictly follows our Editorial Standards: All medical statements are grounded in authoritative guidelines, FDA labels, and peer-reviewed studies, with clear distinction between approved treatments and adjunctive options.