Want to know how to comb out locs without losing all your length? I’ve been there, and I’m here to help.
This guide shows you exactly what tools you need, how to work through each loc safely, and what to do afterward to keep your hair healthy.
You’ll learn the step-by-step process, tips from people who’ve done it, and how to handle shedding without panic.
I’ll cover everything from prep work to aftercare so you can get back to loose hair while keeping as much length as possible.
Let’s get started.
What to Expect When Combing Out Locs
Combining locs takes time and patience. You’re basically reversing months or years of hair that’s grown together.
Expect to spend several hours per day, possibly over multiple days, depending on how long and thick your locs are.
You’ll also see a lot of shedding, which is completely normal. This is just hair that would have fallen out naturally but got trapped in your locs.
The process can feel tedious, but the payoff is keeping your length and seeing your natural texture again. Go in knowing it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
Things You’ll Need Before Combing Out Locs
Getting ready means having the right supplies within arm’s reach so you won’t have to stop mid-session.
Needed Tools
You’ll need a rat-tail comb or any small-tooth comb to work through tight knots. A regular comb helps with the final detangling once you’ve loosened things up.
Hair clips are optional but helpful for keeping sections separated while you work on one loc at a time.
Hair Care Products
Stock up on leave-in conditioner to keep your hair soft and slippery while you comb. A deep conditioner or hot oil treatment will help restore moisture after you’re done.
Keep a spray bottle filled with water nearby to re-wet your hair as it dries out during the process.
Mindset & Time
This isn’t a quick fix. You need patience and dedication to see it through. Plan to work on your hair for several hours each day.
If you have long or thick locs, the process might stretch over multiple days or even a week. Set realistic expectations and don’t rush it.
Step-by-Step Guide to Combing Out Locs
Follow these steps carefully to work through each loc without causing unnecessary breakage or frustration.
Step 1: Section Your Hair
Start by separating your hair into individual locs. This keeps you organized and prevents you from accidentally working on multiple locs at once.
Use clips to hold the sections you’re not currently working on out of your way.
Step 2: Saturate Locs with Water
Wet your hair completely before you start combing. Dry hair breaks much more easily. Work in small sections, about 3 to 4 inches at a time.
Keep your spray bottle handy to add more water whenever a section starts drying out.
Step 3: Apply Conditioner
Massage leave-in conditioner into your wet locs. Make sure it gets all the way through the hair.
Let it sit for about 5 minutes to soften the knots and make combing easier.
Step 4: Comb From Ends to Roots
Grab your rat-tail comb or small-tooth comb and start at the very tip of the loc. Work your way up slowly, tackling small sections of knots at a time.
Add more water and conditioner whenever you hit resistance. Never start from the roots or you’ll create bigger tangles.
Step 5: Remove Knots & Shedding Hair
Once you’ve loosened a loc, switch to a regular comb to finish detangling and remove shed hair. You’ll see a lot of hair come out, which can be alarming.
This is normal shedding that accumulated while your hair was locked. Don’t panic when you see clumps in your comb.
Step 6: Repeat for All Locs
Move on to the next loc and repeat the same process. Work methodically through your entire head. If you have long or thick hair, this might take several days.
Take breaks when you need them and come back refreshed.
Aftercare Tips for Hair Post-Locs
Your hair needs extra care after being locked for so long to bounce back healthy and strong.
Deep Conditioning & Moisture
- Apply a deep conditioner or hot oil treatment as soon as you’re done combing everything out
- Your hair has been through a lot and needs hydration to recover
- This step helps restore softness and manageability
Trim Damaged Ends
- Check your ends for splits or brittle, damaged pieces
- Trim them off to encourage healthy growth moving forward
- You kept most of your length, so a small trim won’t make a big difference
Rediscover Your Curl Pattern
- Now comes the fun part, try different styles and see how your hair behaves
- You might need to experiment with products to figure out what works for your texture
- Give yourself time to get reacquainted with your hair through trial and error
Expert Tips & Community Advice
People who’ve combed out their locs share valuable lessons that can save you time and frustration.
- Work slowly and focus on one loc at a time
- Rushing leads to breakage and more tangles
- Tools like the Tangle Teezer can help smooth things out after you’ve done the initial combing
- Avoid pulling or ripping at stubborn knots
- Gentle, consistent pressure works better than force
- Many people in loc communities recommend doing this with a friend or while watching TV to pass the time
- Others suggest working on your hair when it’s soaking wet in the shower
- Find what feels right for you
- Some folks also recommend coconut oil or olive oil to add extra slip during the combing process
Alternative Method: Cutting Locs
Sometimes cutting makes more sense than combing, depending on your situation and how much time you have.
- If your locs are extremely thick, very mature, or you’re short on time, cutting might be the better option
- Here’s how it works: cut about 1 to 2 inches from your roots, then comb out the remaining tangles from the loose hair
- Some people choose to shave their heads completely for a fresh start
- The main advantage of cutting is speed—you can be done in under an hour instead of days
- The downside is losing most or all of your length
- Combing takes longer but lets you keep more hair
- Consider your priorities and choose what matters most to you
Common Challenges & How to Overcome Them
Knowing what to expect helps you stay calm when problems pop up during the combing process.
Seeing lots of hair come out is normal. This is shedding that builds up over time. However, if you’re pulling out hair with the bulb still attached or noticing bald patches, you might be combing too aggressively.
Slow down and be gentler.
Thick or mature locs can feel impossible to comb through. Try soaking them in warm water with a conditioner for 10 to 15 minutes before you start. This softens the hair and makes it more pliable.
You can also apply more oil or conditioner as you work.
To avoid breakage, never rip through knots. Use short, gentle strokes and work in tiny sections. If your scalp gets irritated, take a break and apply some aloe vera gel or a soothing oil.
Listen to your hair and your body.
Conclusion
I remember combing out my locs and feeling both excited and nervous about the whole thing. It took me days, but keeping my length made it worthwhile.
You can do this if you go slow and stay patient with yourself.
Your hair has been locked for a reason, and now you’re giving it a new chapter. Don’t rush through it or stress when you see shedding.
If you need support or have questions, drop a comment below. I’d love to hear how your experience goes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to comb out locs?
It depends on your loc thickness and length. Most people spend 3 to 6 hours per day over several days. Shorter or thinner locs might take less time, while longer or thicker ones can take a full week.
Will I lose a lot of hair when combing out locs?
Yes, you’ll see a lot of shedding. This is normal hair that would have fallen out naturally but got trapped in your locs. As long as you’re not pulling out hair with the bulb attached, you’re fine.
Can I comb out mature locs that are several years old?
You can, but it takes more time and patience. Mature locs are more tightly formed, so you’ll need to soak them longer in conditioner and work very slowly to avoid breakage.
What’s the best conditioner to use for combing out locs?
Any moisturizing leave-in conditioner works well. Many people also use coconut oil, olive oil, or a slippery deep conditioner to help the comb slide through knots more easily.
Should I comb out my locs wet or dry?
Always comb them out wet. Dry hair breaks much more easily. Keep a spray bottle nearby to re-wet sections as you work through them.
