When my hair matts up near the roots(due to not combing) I put a detangler or a thick conditioner on my hair and let it sit for about 5 minutes then work out the matt, by pulling one strand of hair or a couple out at a time. Do not use a comb use your fingers. Your hair has to have some slip to it to get the matt out without losing alot of hair. Also take your time or you will lose a lot of hair.