For people with long, envy-inspiring locks, choosing a hairbrush is important. With beauty blogs increasing in popularity, consumers are learning more about why the materials in a hairbrush can make or (literally) break their delicate strands.
Curly, thick, or unruly hair is especially sensitive to the wrong hairbrush type. Opting for the wrong brush could lead to frizz and even damage your strands over time.
Hairbrushes By Type
Boar bristles are one of the most elite and expensive hair brush materials on the market. The flexible bristles are able to seal the cuticle to avoid frizz and breakage. But, since they are so soft, boar bristles are difficult to use with styling tools. Often times, boar bristles are mixed with nylon to create a stronger hold – called “porcupine” brushes.
Generic hairbrushes that you might see at your local drug store are most commonly made of nylon. The bristles are pliable, but also firm enough to handle styling. For curly and unruly hair, a tighter pattern is typically recommended to glide through tangles.
Finally, metal brushes are often used on wigs and hairpieces. Because the bristles are stiff, metal brushes shouldn’t be used on real hair. If you are using a metal brush for faux hair, be sure to find brushes with a softer, plastic tip.
While your hairbrush won’t necessarily lead to hair loss, an abrasive brush could worsen your condition by tugging on strands and sending follicles into shock. Always err on the side of caution and treat your hair delicately with a softer brush when possible. In addition, avoid over styling and limit artificial heat exposure to keep your existing strands (or recent regrowth) in the best shape possible.