Whether you're detangling your hair, blow-drying, adding volume, or styling it in a tight bun… whatever your purpose, the hairbrush you choose has a much bigger impact on your hair health and styling routine than you might think. The right brush not only makes styling easier, but it can also reduce breakage, enhance hair's natural shine, and help distribute natural scalp oils evenly throughout the strands. In short, our choice of comb directly affects our overall hair health. So how do you choose the right comb, and what factors are considered? Which hair comb is best suited for which hairstyle, or even which hair type? In this guide, we've explained all types of combs and brushes, what each one is used for, and how to choose the brush that best suits your hair type and needs, step by step.
Why is choosing the right hairbrush so important?
First, we shouldn't just consider hair combs and brushes as styling tools. These tools, an essential part of our daily hair care routine, touch our hair more often than our own hands! Just as we choose our shampoo, we should show the same care and attention when choosing the combs we use every day.
Regular and proper brushing helps distribute the natural oils produced in the scalp throughout the hair strands, resulting in stronger, shinier hair that is less prone to frizz . It also gently detangles hair and, when applied with the correct technique, supports blood circulation in the scalp.
Conversely, using a brush unsuitable for your hair type, or using the right brush incorrectly, can lead to breakage, split ends, and dullness. Therefore, the key to maintaining hair health is choosing the right type of comb or brush based on your hair's texture, thickness, and intended use.
Which hair comb is ideal for what purpose?
Paddle (flat) brush – For detangling and smoothing hair strands.
Thanks to their wide, flat surface, paddle brushes are ideal for gently detangling and straightening medium and long hair. Because they cover a wider area, they also help to untangle knots without pulling.
Who is it suitable for?
- Straight or slightly wavy hair.
- Medium to long hair.
- Daily brushing.
2. Round brushes – For blow-drying, volumizing, and shaping.
Round brushes are used during blow-drying to add volume, create waves, or shape the ends. Brushes with a smaller diameter create more defined curls, while round brushes with a larger diameter help to smooth the hair and create soft waves.
Who is it suitable for?
- Those who regularly blow-dry their hair.
- For those who want to add volume to their hair roots.
- For those who want to create waves in their hair without using a curling iron.
3. Vent brushes – Fast drying
Vent brushes, thanks to the openings in their handles, allow air from the hairdryer to pass through the hair. This shortens drying time and adds volume to the roots.
Who is it suitable for?
- Fine and/or volumeless hair.
- For those who want to shorten their hair drying time.
4. Natural bristle (boar bristles) brushes – Shine and sebum balance.
Brushes made from natural bristles help distribute sebum from the scalp evenly throughout the hair strands, giving hair a natural shine and reducing frizz. They are especially preferred for preventing frizz and static when brushing dry hair.
Who is it suitable for?
- Fine or normal hair.
- Straight or slightly wavy hair.
- Daily care and shine.
- Dry brushing.
5. Mixed bristle brushes – Versatile use.
These brushes, which use a combination of natural and synthetic bristles, help to evenly distribute scalp oils and make it easier to detangle knots and tangles in thicker, coarser hair.
Who is it suitable for?
- Medium to thick hair.
- Very long hair.
- For those who want to add shine to their hair.
6. Detangling brushes – Gentle brushing.
Detangling brushes with flexible and soft bristles are especially suitable for curly, wavy, or easily tangled hair. Ideal for those who prefer to comb their hair while wet, these brushes minimize damage to the hair strands.
Who is it suitable for?
- Curly or wavy hair.
- Those who like to comb their hair while it's wet.
- Hair that is prone to breakage.
7. Wide-toothed comb – A lifesaver for wet hair.
Wide-toothed combs are one of the safest tools for preventing hair breakage. They are particularly successful at detangling wet hair without causing damage. Due to their small combing area, they are ideal for fine, short hair that is prone to breakage.
Which brush should I choose based on my hair type?
There is no single perfect hairbrush. The right brush varies depending on hair type, needs, and daily routine. However, if you're struggling to decide which brush and comb to use when among those you already have at home, or if you notice your hair looks worse or sheds more after brushing, the following pairings serve as a "cheat sheet" for many hair types.
- For fine hair: Use soft, natural bristle or vent brushes.
- Thick hair: Paddle brushes with synthetic or mixed bristles.
- Curly hair: Wide-toothed comb or detangling brush.
- For straight hair: Paddle brush or round brush.
- Damaged hair: Gentle brushing with soft-bristled brushes.
So how can we check if we've bought a quality brush?
I've found the right brush for myself; but if you're wondering how to be sure you're getting a quality brush, here are the key points to consider when shopping:
- The brush handle should sit balanced in the hand, not feeling too light or unsteady.
- The hairs should be evenly spaced; they should not fall out, bend, or pierce the skin when pulled.
- Especially with brushes containing natural bristles, the tips of the bristles should be rounded to prevent scalp irritation.
- For brushes with a cushioned base, it's recommended to feel a flexible but firm return sensation when pressure is applied. A plastic smell, sharp edges, or stiff, irregular bristles generally indicate low quality.
A good quality brush should provide a brushing experience that doesn't snag or pull hair. If static electricity doesn't increase after brushing and the hair feels smoother, it means you've chosen the right, high-quality product.
Proper hairbrush usage and care tips
- Clean the brushes regularly.
- Begin combing the hair from the ends, working your way towards the roots as you detangle.
- Be much gentler when brushing your hair while it's wet.
- Always avoid applying excessive force to your hair.