It's all about the conversation! Tell them something about your childhood and they'll sit still and listen!! 

Jamie and Morgan definitely have it right. Distract them by either talking to them or having them talk about themselves. Hopefully they'll sit still for the detangling process then. 

When I was younger I had a really great smelling kids detangler serum that my mom would let me spray on and then she would comb out my hair. Each of us had a role and that kept me engaged and patient through the process. I plan on doing this with my daughter when she is a little older!

My wife sometimes likes to bribe them by doing it in front of the tv, or I'll come in and try and distract her if things are getting really out of hand.  I know more corny jokes than I know what to do with....