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The Cabinet · Issue 01 · Autumn

Beauty Journal

Detangling: when to comb and where a leave-in fits

Hair texture affects when to detangle. Separate general combing guidance from the application instructions for UNITE 7SECONDS Detangler.

Alicia DahlingCo-founder & Co-owner, The Hair Cabinet

Shears, sectioning clips and a tortoiseshell comb laid out on linen across a walnut salon trolley.

Before reaching for a detangler, consider when you are combing. A product's application directions and a hair type's detangling routine answer different questions.

Choose the timing for your hair

The American Academy of Dermatology offers different guidance for different textures:

  • For thick, curly hair, detangle in the shower while conditioner is still in the hair.
  • For straight hair, let it dry a little before combing.
  • For curls or coils between washes, its curly-hair guide recommends thoroughly wetting the hair, adding leave-in conditioner and working in sections.

American Academy of Dermatology: tips for healthy hair (opens in a new tab)American Academy of Dermatology: curly hair care (opens in a new tab)

Work gently from the ends

AAD recommends a wide-tooth comb for wet hair. Begin near the ends and gradually work higher. Blot moisture with a towel or T-shirt rather than rubbing the hair roughly.

American Academy of Dermatology: tips for healthy hair (opens in a new tab)

“A product's application directions and a hair type's detangling routine answer different questions.”

Using UNITE 7SECONDS Detangler

UNITE describes 7SECONDS Detangler as a lightweight leave-in conditioner for all hair types. Its own application sequence is:

  1. 1After washing and conditioning, towel-dry your hair. UNITE's directions specify its shampoo and conditioner.
  2. 2Apply the spray while hair is damp, then gently distribute it with a comb through the ends.
  3. 3Keep it in the hair and continue with styling products.

UNITE 7SECONDS Detangler official product page (opens in a new tab)

On a K18 treatment day

Use the separate K18 guide for that wash. K18's routine includes a four-minute pause before a leave-in conditioner or styling product is added.

K18: where to use the mask (opens in a new tab)How to use K18: dose, timing and the next step

Considering a leave-in detangler?

  • UNITE 7SECONDS Detangler

    Review UNITE's application directions and decide whether a spray applied to towel-dried hair fits your routine.

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