Are you at wit’s end trying to untangle a hairbrush out of your kid’s hair? All parents have been there. For some mind-boggling ways, your kid managed to wound a hairbrush on its hair enough to drive a hairstylist crazy. But here’s my good news: you don’t need to cut anything. All you need is the best detangling spray for kids.
So if you’re dealing with the unimaginable, here are five of the best detangling sprays that you can use:
How do detangling sprays work?
My 5-year-old niece has this annoying habit of putting things on her hair, mostly brushes and items that can easily cause tangles. One time, I had to babysit her, and I decided to go to the bathroom to pee. When I came back, she had her mom’s round brush all wound up in her long hair.
I had to call my sister just to ask what to do. She then instructed me to get this detangling spray in the bathroom. I sprayed it, massage a bit, and it really did well in loosening the hair. In just 5 minutes, I managed to get the brush out of my niece’s hair. It’s actually the Original Sprout detangler, which apparently what my sister considers her Holy Grail for such situations.
About two months after that encounter, I was asked if I can watch over my niece again, this time at my house. Before that day arrived, I bought myself a detangler just in case this little missy decides to do her hair trick again.
So how did I use it? You simply shake the bottle, spritz it all over the tangled hair, and massage it. You’ll use your fingers to unravel the hair out of the tangles.
A detangling spray is like a lubricant that helps each hair strand slide out of its tight knot. The best thing that I like about it is that detangler sprays are formulated with moisturizers that prevent dryness. It’s very important for kids since they have sensitive scalps.
How to choose a detangler spray for kids
When it comes to the best detangling spray for kids, I won’t complicate things. If you want the best purchase that works, you must consider the following:
✔️Opt for a kid-friendly formula
Before you put your money on a spray formula, make sure that it’s made for kids. There are many detangler sprays formulated, especially for children.
What’s the difference between adult and kids spray, you ask? Well, you can easily find a detangler made for all hair types. It can be used by kids and adults because of its gentle formula. Most of the time, these all-around detanglers have all-natural ingredients free of any parabens, phthalates, and other hazardous chemicals.
Also, detangler sprays for kids are made to be gentle on their young scalps. The last thing you want is your child’s hair falling off after using your own detangler.
✔️Look for a moisturizing option
Next, try to look for a formula with moisturizing benefits. Although this isn’t a requirement, there’s nothing to lose if you have this additional perk. My niece’s scalp dries like the Sahara when styled, so I saw to it that I purchased a detangler that locks in moisture without clogging the hair follicles.
Also, the moisturizing characteristic of the detangler will actually prevent further knots and tangles. Since the hair is silky, it slides on each other smoothly.
✔️Select based on hair type
Here’s one thing I learned after talking to a friend: always consider the hair type when buying a detangler. Curly hair kids need a lot of moisturization, which brings us back to my previous point. Try to find a detangler with moisturizing ingredients.
Meanwhile, those with straight or wavy hair can skip the extra moisturizer. This hair type can be detangled by just about any detangler in the market (as long as it doesn’t have harmful chemicals, though!).
Lastly, kiddies with fine or thin hair will need extra moisture. To my surprise, I found out that fine hair tends to get tangled more than curly hair. This explains why my niece always gets nasty knots on her wispy locks. For this hair type, look for a lightweight detangler that will not weigh the hair down.
✔️Conditioner vs. spray
While browsing for a detangler online, I found out that you can choose between a spray and a conditioner. Both works, but if you want convenience and immediate results, you will do well on a spray detangler.
Conditioners, on the other hand, are available in leave-in or washable versions. The only gripe I have this option is that some formulas tend to weigh the hair down. With that saying, avoid using this on kids with fine hair, unless a detangler spray isn’t doing its magic.
✔️Consider the smell
Last but not the least, always check the smell. Kids will not be modest about their feelings when it comes to smell. If the detangler you’re using has an intoxicating scent, your little one will loathe it. Also, the overpowering smell might be a sign that the detangler is packed with lots of unnecessary chemicals. It may end up irritating the kid’s scalp. Go for light and natural scent that leaves a mild whiff on a kid’s hair.
Tips in removing tangles on a child’s hair
To make sure you will succeed in your detangling task, you must keep these tidbits in mind:
Don’t pull! The mortal sin of untangling is pulling and yanking the knot. This will make matters worse, not to mention that the kid will end up crying or hating you.
- Always use a detangler. Don’t just rely on your untangling skills. Always use a detangler spray to loosen the hair. This will let you finish the task faster.
- Work in sections. A large knot may seem intimidating, but if you work on sections, you can easily unravel it bit by bit. Also, jumping in different spots of the hair will only make more tangles along the way.
- Don’t cut. Remember that trimming the knot is the last resort. Use a detangler spray before you even think of using the scissors.
- Prevent it from happening. You can prevent severe knots on your kids’ hair by keeping their locks moisturized and well-combed all the time. Also, put away any brushes that they may entwine with their hair.
Best Detangling Spray For Kids – My Top 5 Picks!
1. MY TOP PICK: Original Sprout Miracle Detangler
If there’s one detangler spray I count on, it would be the Original Sprout Miracle Spray. I use this detangler both on my niece and my own hair. It’s a leave-in conditioner made of all-natural ingredients and infused with moisturizers.
This is tested to be safe for adults, kids, and even babies! It also works for all hair types and textures, making it the best detangling spray for kids. It’s widely loved by moms and even professional stylists due to its effective formula.
- The champion of detanglers, quick release formula makes tough tangles history
- The tangles release immediately making combing effortless
- It leaves hair silky, soft and naturally fresh
It’s a fragrance-free spray with no dairy, gluten, soy, or honey. This is also cruelty-free and 100% vegan. And for those with a sensitive scalp, it’s comforting to know that this spray is free from titanium dioxide or nanoparticles that may block the hair follicles.
Aside from that, it has extracts of cranberry fruit, rosemary leaves, arnica, cucumber, and calendula, among others. All of these natural ingredients give this detangler a nice scent, which my niece also likes.
I can assure you that Original Sprout is kid-friendly because it’s free of tea tree and lavender oil, which are associated with hormonal disruptions among children. If you’re a meticulous mom, this is an unbeatable option.
Pros
Cruelty-free and vegan
Free from lavender and tea tree oil
Works for all ages and hair types
Cons
The packaging can make use of improvements.
RUNNERS-UP:
2. Wet Brush Time Release Kids Detangler Spray
If you want a detangling spray that lasts for days on each application, you should consider the Wet Brush Time Release Spray. This formula untangles for up to three days. It’s also packed with keratin that repairs split ends and strengthens hair. So aside from removing the tangles on your kid’s hair, this formula also nourishes the scalp and tresses.
Moreover, it leaves a nice shine, which makes the hair look clean and fresh. It doesn’t have nitrates, parabens, and sulfates, either so it’s safe to use for kids and adults alike. If your child has color-treated hair, the Wet Brush detangler spray is still a good choice.
- This helps protect from heat while styling; It is also safe for color-treated hair
- Paraben, nitrate and sulfate free
- Time Release formula helps detangle up to 3 days
- Conditions and hydrates for manageability and shine
It works like magic on almost every hair type. I also use this on my hair, and it works amazing as well. My friend’s daughter also prefers this spray since it makes her long hair manageable. Most of all, it helps eliminate lice, which is an important feature for young kids.
Also, if your little one tends to have sensitivities to other detangler sprays, this one from Wet Brush might be the one that you’re looking for.
However, if there’s one thing I could change about this product, it would be the smell. Surprisingly, my niece loves it, but I find it a little overpowering since I have a sensitive nose.
Pros
Helps remove lice
Detangles for up to 3 days
Strengthens the hair
Cons
The smell could be less strong, in my opinion
3. Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Detangler
Another option that you can try is the Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Detangler. This specific bundle has two 8-ounce bottles of good-smelling and all-natural detangler spray.
Its formula is mixed with slippery elm, marshmallow root extract, coconut oil, hibiscus extracts, and shea butter. To moisturize and nourish the hair, this detangler spray is also blended with jojoba seed oil without sulfates.
Also, this detangler spray from Shea Moisture has no phthalates, parabens, mineral oil, and propylene glycol. It’s also cruelty-free, making it a wise buy for every meticulous parent out there.
- EXTRA MOISTURIZING DETANGLER: This moisture rich detangler defines and tames...
- SPRAY IN & LEAVE ON: Spray directly on wet or dry hair. Do not rinse the extra...
- MARSHAMALLOW EXTRACTS: Marshmallow root is a natural emollient or moisturizer, making...
- COCONUT OIL & HIBISCUS FLOWER: Formulated with nourishing coconut oil with Vitamin E,...
- ABOUT US: We do not test on animals. Our products include certified organic and...
Aside from detangling, this spray also helps manage frizz while promoting hair growth. It also restores the balance of the hair for a shiny and soft finish. Overall, this is safe for both kids and adults, not to mention that it has a nice scent.
One thing I like the most is how lightweight this detangler is in terms of consistency. It suits kids and adults with fine hair without weighing their hair down too much. If your little one can make epic hair tangles after a day of playing, make sure that you have a bottle of this at home.
Pros
All-natural ingredients
Nice smell
Works well for fine hair
Cons
The one I got has a leaky bottle, but I think it’s due to courier issues
4. Daily Dose Leave-in Conditioner & Detangler
If you prefer a leave-in conditioner detangler, you should check out this one from Daily Dose. It works as a conditioner, detangler, frizz remover, and flyaway tamer. One thing I like best about this is its lightweight formula that prevents the hair from getting weighed down too much.
Aside from that, this formula suits all hair types, as well as kids. Whether your child has wavy, curly, coily, straight, or fine hair, this product is a Holy Grail. It has a non-greasy finish and a fine mist that makes it easy to apply.
- Money-Back Warranty: Daily Dose is dedicated to delivering exceptional support & 100%...
- Award-Winning: Daily Dose Leave In Hair Conditioner: Winner of College Beauty Her...
- For Your Hair Type: Daily Dose is perfect for all hair types 1, 2, 3, 4 from wavy,...
- Incredible Results: Leave-In Conditioner makes hair manageable, eliminates frizz,...
- CRUELTY FREE & NEVER tested on animals. Formulated without Parabens, SLES, SLS...
Most of all, it’s free of the bad stuff. It doesn’t have petrolatum, phthalates, lead, parabens, synthetic colors, and iron oxide. It’s made gentle for kids who keep on getting their hair extremely tangled.
Moreover, the Daily Dose detangler conditioner strengthens, moisturizes, softens, and protects the hair. It’s also scalp-friendly, so rest assured that your little one won’t feel itchy. It’s also suitable for color-treated hair if used by adults. You and your child can use this every day without any adverse side effects on the hair.
Some users complain about the smell, but I’ve tried it, and I don’t find it repulsive. To each his own, I suppose.
Pros
Free of the bad stuff
Light formula
Non-greasy finish
Cons
You may need to apply a little more for curly hair
5. Totlogic Kids Detangler Spray
My last recommendation for this roundup is the Totlogic Kids Detangler Spray. It’s the perfect choice for those who are on a budget but looking for a decent detangler for their kids.
To start with this, the Totlogic detangler suits all hair types for both girls and boys. Adults can also use this for tangles. It’s infused with botanicals and antioxidants to nourish the hair while combatting split ends, and frizz. Your kid’s hair will also be easier to comb with this spray product.
As a safe detangler spray for kids, this Totlogic product doesn’t have petroleum, parabens, formaldehyde, sulfates, and other harsh chemicals.
- FOR ALL HAIR TYPES: Helps to ease combing for wavy, curly, coily and frizzy hair....
- RICH IN ANTIOXIDANTS AND NOURISHING BOTANICALS: To Detangle, ease combing, condition,...
- WET OR DRY HAIR: Can be sprayed on wet or dry hair for girls after shower or anytime...
- NATURALLY SCENTED: Scented with natural Bergamot, Chamomile, & Lavender Essential...
- NO HARSH CHEMICALS: Safe for girls hair, No Sulfates, No Formaldeyhyde, Phthalates,...
This one doesn’t have any synthetic fragrances, which suits kids with very sensitive noses. It doesn’t have an artificial color either, which makes it safe to use for those with sensitive scalps. Aside from that, you can use this formula on both wet and dry hair.
In case you consider this paramount, the Totlogic detangler spray is cruelty-free, and it doesn’t have any ingredients sourced from animals. You can now say goodbye to tangles and frizz without the frills!
Pros
Mild, natural scent
Suitable for all hair types
Rich with antioxidants to condition the hair
Cons
A little sticky, but not much of a big deal
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I stop my child’s hair from tangling?
A: If your child seems to get hair tangles almost every day, you need a leave-in detangler spray. Some products like the Wet Brush Time Release Detangler work for days to prevent tangles on kids’ hair. You should also shampoo their hair to the roots. And if possible, keep your child’s hair at a manageable length.
Q: Why is my daughter’s hair knot too easily?
A: It’s possible that your daughter isn’t rinsing shampoo properly. The residue from the shampoo will cause the hair to tangle easily. It will also be difficult to comb through. Don’t worry, though, even the most tangled hair will yield to a good detangler spray. Feel free to choose from the five options I reviewed above!
Q: Is it advisable to cut tangled hair off my child’s head?
A: As much as possible, avoid cutting any length when dealing with knots and tangles. Your child may not love it, either, especially if a large portion of their hair is involved. There’s a way to fix the problem by using an effective detangling spray. Also, never rip or yank tangled hair. It will only hurt the child and make the knots much worse.
Q: Can a detangler spray damage a child’s hair?
A: No, if you get a kid-friendly option. Most of these products are infused with moisturizing ingredients that actually help keep healthy hair and scalp. A detangler spray will only damage the hair if you over-indulge or if its formula is reeking of phthalates, sulfates, and other harmful chemicals.
Q: Should I detangle hair dry or wet?
A: If you’re dealing with coarse, curl, or dry hair, you must detangle it wet. This will give a more slippery effect that allows you to remove the knots without hurting your scalp. But to be sure, it’s best to use a detangler spray for the job. It works for all hair types, even for kids!
Final words
With the best detangling spray for kids, knots and tangles are no longer a dilemma. Since kids can get their pretty messy and tangled during playtime, you should always have a bottle of this spray product at home. It will also come handy in case your little one played with your hair and left you with a classic hairstyle.