Tangled manes? Here’s how to detangle matted horse hair like a pro.
A little mud, a few burrs, and some time in the pasture can quickly turn a sleek mane into a knotted challenge. Severe tangles and matting may seem like a grooming nightmare—but with the right approach, you can bring that mane back to life without reaching for the scissors. Whether you’re prepping for show season or just want your horse to feel more comfortable, follow these four straightforward steps to gently and effectively detangle matted horse manes while preserving length and shine.

1. Cleanse the Mane with Cowboy Magic® Rosewater Shampoo
Begin by thoroughly washing the mane to remove dirt and debris. Use Cowboy Magic® Rosewater Shampoo to gently cleanse the hair. This concentrated formula requires only a small amount to effectively clean the hair, while its silk conditioners start the detangling process by softening the strands.
2. Condition with Cowboy Magic® Rosewater Conditioner
After rinsing out the shampoo, apply Cowboy Magic® Rosewater Conditioner to the mane. Massage it into the hair, focusing on the matted areas. Allow it to sit for a couple of minutes to deeply moisturize and prepare the hair for detangling. Then, rinse thoroughly.
3. Apply Cowboy Magic® Detangler & Shine™
With the mane clean and conditioned, it's time to tackle the tangles. Apply a small amount of Cowboy Magic® Detangler & Shine™ directly to the matted sections. This alcohol-free formula, enriched with silk proteins and panthenol, will make the hair silky and manageable. Gently work through the tangles with your fingers, starting from the bottom and moving upward, adding more product as needed.
4. Comb Through Gently
Once the tangles are loosened, use a wide-toothed comb to gently comb through the mane. Start at the ends and work your way up to the roots, taking care to avoid pulling or breaking the hair. This will help smooth out the mane and restore its natural shine.
Additional Tips:
- If the mane is only slightly tangled and not dirty, you can skip the washing and conditioning steps and apply the Detangler & Shine™ directly to dry hair.
- Avoid using a comb or brush on dry, tangled hair, as this can cause breakage. Always start detangling with your fingers and use tools only after the major tangles are removed.
- Regular maintenance and grooming can help prevent severe matting. Incorporate Cowboy Magic® products into your routine to keep your horse's mane healthy and tangle-free.
By following these steps, you can effectively detangle your horse's matted mane, preserving its length and luster without resorting to cutting. Cowboy Magic® products are designed to make grooming easier and more enjoyable for both you and your horse.