5 Important Points You Need to Know Before Buying Different Types of Combs and Brushes

Choosing the right tool for your hair type is the first step towards proper hair care. In this regard, many questions arise regarding this category of tools, such as: Should I buy a comb or a brush? Should the bristles be thin or wide? Is plastic better or wooden? And so on. Considering these concerns, this time we will examine various combs and brushes (for both men and women) and discuss important points to consider when purchasing each one.

Is a brush better or a comb?

To answer this question, it is necessary to know that generally, using a comb when the hair is wet is considered a more appropriate method for detangling and arranging the hair. This is because a comb can untangle knots without breaking the hair shaft. On the other hand, a brush tends to be more aggressive on wet hair and may pose a risk of hair breakage. However, hair brushes are ideal for removing dandruff and scalp massage.

Wide-toothed combs:

As mentioned, a wide-toothed comb is an ideal choice for combing wet hair and gently untangling knots. Additionally, it can be easily used to evenly distribute hair masks after shampooing. For individuals with curly or frizzy hair, it is important to note that if you want to both detangle your hair and maintain the natural texture of your curls, you should opt for options with wide wooden teeth that are spaced apart.

Ideal for:

Curly and frizzy hair, as the wide spacing of the comb's teeth prevents the natural waves of the hair from breaking and minimizes damage to them significantly.

Combs with fine teeth:

As evident from the shape of this type of comb, such tools are designed to create smooth lines and evenly divide the hair. Additionally, combs with fine teeth are suitable for preparing the hair in a sleeker style, especially for individuals with thin hair, as it adds volume and beauty to their hair.

Ideal for:

Straight hair.

Using a comb to apply hair gel:

Using your hands to apply hair gel is undoubtedly the most common technique. However, using an appropriate comb can be a good alternative. For example, if you have medium-length hair, you can use a suitable comb to slick your hair backward and give it a stylish look.

Choosing a comb based on their material:

 Taking a general look, wooden combs are practical for preventing static electricity on the hair. On the other hand, metal models of this product have a durable and sturdy structure, and they can untangle hair knots without causing hair breakage. Alongside wooden and metal combs, carbon combs have recently gained popularity because they are heat resistant and, like wooden options, discharge hair static. However, when it comes to plastic combs, it should be noted that they are undoubtedly the cheapest option among different comb models, but they can be disappointing for users in most cases. Nevertheless, plastic combs made of cellulose acetate or nylon can be considered as better examples.

Introduction to different types of brushes and their applications:

Unlike combs, which usually come in two types: fine-toothed and wide-toothed, hairbrushes come in four main models available in the market, and we will discuss each one in detail in this section.

Oval-shaped brushes:

 An oval-shaped brush or cushion brush is the first thing that comes to mind when mentioning a brush. This type of hair styling tool is ideal for detangling hair knots without irritating the scalp. However, as mentioned earlier, they are not highly recommended for brushing wet hair.

Ideal for:

Straight hair, especially if it is long and tangled.

Wide and rectangular-shaped brushes:

 Wide and rectangular-shaped brushes are suitable options for drying hair as they quickly dry the hair and reduce the likelihood of creating dandruff. These products can be made from various materials such as wood, metal, and plastic.

Ideal for:

Straight hair, especially if it is thick and long.

Brush with natural bristles:

The biggest advantage of this category of brushes is that they evenly distribute the naturally produced oils from the scalp along the length of the hair (when dry). This results in less greasy but shiny hair. Additionally, when using specialized shampoos for dry hair, these brushes are considered the best choice as they effectively separate residues of cleansing products from the hair, leaving it clean and fragrant.

If you have fine hair, which tends to have medium to low volume, is relatively straight, and becomes oily quickly, you should use brushes with bristles made of natural hair. People with straight and fine hair often believe that a simple brush is sufficient for styling their hair, while these types of brushes can make a noticeable difference in the texture and volume of such hair.

Ideal for:

Straight or curly hair.

Professional Hairbrushes; From Cylinder Models to Round Ones

This category of products is used to style hair and create specific hairstyles, and their use may be complex for non-professionals. Cylinder-shaped brushes are used to create volume and folds in the hair, while cylinder options are primarily used to straighten curly hair or create natural waves. Additionally, round brushes with non-uniform bristles are useful for quick drying and achieving professional-level volume in the hair.

Ideal for:

Curly and straight hair.

What is a Tangle Teezer and what are its uses?

The Tangle Teezer is an advanced hairbrush from a brand of the same name that has become popular among many individuals, especially those with curly hair, since its early introduction. The success of this type of brush is directly related to its ability to untangle knots from the hair. In fact, the design of this product allows it to detangle thick hair knots without breaking their shafts. For individuals with curly hair, this tool serves as a breakthrough option. However, keep in mind that using the Tangle Teezer to brush dry hair can cause damage to the hair strands.

5 important points you should know before buying different types of combs and brushes:

1.Pay attention to the material of the bristles.

In general, hair brushes can have bristles made of synthetic, natural, or a combination of both materials. Options with synthetic bristles, usually made of nylon, are suitable for coarse, thick, and tangled hair. Brushes with natural bristles are useful for evenly distributing scalp's natural oils on the hair and are typically made of boar bristles. Brushes with natural bristles are soft and durable, making them more suitable for fine and straight hair.

2.It is better for the brush to have cushioned bristles.

Pay attention to whether the chosen product has fabric cushions at the ends of the bristles. These cushions help reduce damage to the scalp and hair during brushing.

3.Purchase a brush or comb with an ergonomic handle.

 When buying a brush, pay attention to the handle. Brushes with ergonomic handles allow you to hold the tool better and have better control when brushing your hair.

4.For extended hair extensions, buy options with looped bristles.

Brushes with looped bristles are suitable for extended hair extensions because their design prevents the bristles from pulling on the installed extensions.

5.Consider the flexibility of the bristles.

When purchasing different types of brushes, ensure that the bristles are soft and flexible. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, the spacing between the bristles or teeth is an important factor to consider, especially for individuals with curly or textured hair.

Final Words

In this buying guide, we have discussed different types of combs and brushes specifically designed for various hair types, and we have highlighted important points to consider when choosing an option suitable for your hair. In conclusion, we emphasize that individuals with voluminous, curly hair should never use brushes designed for long and straight hair. Similarly, individuals with thin and straight hair also need to consider certain guidelines to maintain the health of their hair. Therefore, considering the points mentioned in this article, there is no room for any mistake in selecting a suitable comb or brush for those who have read this writing.