best travel brush for fine hair

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• Travel Essentials & Accessories

11 Best Travel Hair Brush for 2024

Published: August 26, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Katleen Purvis

• Tech & Gear
• Travel Guide

Are you tired of dealing with tangled, unruly hair while traveling? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the 11 Best Travel Hair Brushes for 2023. Whether you are embarking on a backpacking adventure or heading to a luxurious vacation destination, having the right hair brush by your side is essential. These travel-friendly brushes are not only compact and lightweight but also designed to handle all hair types, from fine to thick and curly. With their innovative features and superior performance, these brushes will leave your hair looking smooth, shiny, and tangle-free, ensuring that you always look and feel your best on the go.

Jump to Review

Wet Brush Go Green Mini Detangler, Green

This product has a rating of A. * What does this rating mean?

Overall Score : 9/10

The Wet Brush Go Green Mini Detangler is the perfect hair brush for on-the-go. Its compact size makes it ideal for travel, while the IntelliFlex bristles glide through tangles with ease, minimizing breakage and effort. The brush is designed to be gentle on the hair, protecting against split ends and breakage. It works well with all hair types, from straight to curly, textured to thick. Made with a percentage of plant-based plastic, the Go Green Mini Detangler is an environmentally-friendly option. Keep your hair strong, healthy, and tangle-free wherever you go with this adorable and effective travel brush.

Key Features

• Mini Detangler: Gently loosens knots without pulling or snagging
• Untangle Your World: Intelli Flex bristles for 45% less breakage and 55% less effort
• Painless: Minimizes pain, split ends, and breakage
• All Hair Vibes Welcome: Works great for all hair types
• Go Green: Made with a percentage of plant-based plastic

Specifications

• Color: Green Mini Detangler
• Dimension: 1.50Lx2.30Wx5.70H
• Size: 1 Count (Pack of 1)
• Compact size for travel
• Gentle on hair and doesn't fall apart
• Cute leaf design
• No frizz or static
• May be too small for some
• Can feel a bit awkward to hold

The Wet Brush Go Green Mini Detangler is a must-have travel accessory for anyone who wants to keep their hair looking its best on the go. With its compact size, gentle bristles, and cute design, it’s both functional and stylish. The brush effectively detangles hair without causing pain or breakage, and its environmentally-friendly construction adds to its appeal. While it may be a bit small for some users, and the handle can feel a bit awkward, these minor downsides are outweighed by the brush’s overall performance. If you’re in need of a travel brush that provides excellent results and fits conveniently in your bag, this is the one to choose.

Travel Hairbrush with Soft-Touch Handle and Cushion Base

Overall Score : 8/10

The Conair Velvet Touch Travel Hairbrush is a versatile everyday brush suitable for all hair lengths. It features a soft-touch handle for maximum comfort and a flexible cushion base with ball-tipped bristles that won't snag or pull hair. Whether you need a detangling wet brush, round brush, vented brush, paddle brush, or heated brush, Conair has you covered. The brush is designed for all hair types and styles, delivering natural bristles, comfy handles, and lightweight designs. Conair is the #1 hairbrush brand, offering brushes for blowouts, detangling, volumizing, adding shine, fighting frizz, or everyday styling. This brush comes in assorted colors and has dimensions of 7.00Lx1.75Wx2.38H.

• Soft-touch handle for easy grip
• Flexible cushion base and ball-tipped bristles
• Suitable for all hair types
• Multiple brush options for different hairstyles
• Part of the Conair hair care line
• Color: Assorted: Red, Black, Navy
• Dimension: 7.00Lx1.75Wx2.38H
• Gently combs out tangles
• Minimizes static
• Soft bristles for gentle detangling
• Misleading image on listing
• Strong smell initially

The Conair Velvet Touch Travel Hairbrush is a reliable and affordable option for everyday brushing and on-the-go hair care. Its soft-touch handle and cushion base make it comfortable to use, while the ball-tipped bristles prevent hair from getting snagged or pulled. This brush is suitable for all hair types, delivering smooth and tangle-free results. It’s compact size makes it perfect for travel or carrying in a purse. Although the listing image may be misleading, the brush itself provides excellent performance at an affordable price. The initial smell may be overwhelming, but it is expected to diminish over time. Overall, the Conair Velvet Touch Travel Hairbrush is a must-have accessory for maintaining beautiful hair.

2 ALAZCO Folding Hair Brush With Mirror Compact Pocket Size Travel Car Gym Bag Purse Locker (2 Assorted Colors)

The ALAZCO Folding Hair Brush is a compact and portable accessory for travelers. This folding brush measures 8 inches when opened and can be folded down to just 4 inches, making it perfect for carrying in your purse, briefcase, or pocket. It features 7 rows of flexible nylon bristles with massaging ball tips, providing styling control and a pleasant experience. Additionally, the handle of the brush contains a 2.5-inch mirror, making it convenient for touch-ups on the go. The ALAZCO Folding Hair Brush comes in two assorted colors and is suitable for use while traveling, at school, the gym, or even in your car. With its space-saving design and practical features, this brush is a must-have travel accessory.

• Folding Hair Brush With Mirror Compact Pocket Size 8" when opened, 4" When folded – 2.5" Mirror inside the handle
• Space-saving full size hair brush folds down to mini size, great for purse, briefcase or pocket
• Ideal for Travel, school, gym, pool, Desk Drawer, Car Glove box or purse
• 7 rows of flexible nylon bristles with massaging ball tips for styling control that feels great!
• 2 Folding brush – Comes in Assorted colors – Mix/Match Blue, Pink, Beige, Brown, Green or Gold.
• Color: Assorted,Beige,Blue,Green,Pink
• Size: 2 Assorted Colors
• Compact and portable design ideal for travel
• Includes a mirror in the handle for convenience
• Flexible bristles provide styling control
• Comes in assorted colors for personalization
• Bristles may be too stiff for some
• Mirror is not useful while brushing hair
• Some users reported a strong smell initially

The ALAZCO Folding Hair Brush with Mirror is a practical and space-saving accessory for travelers. Its compact design, foldable feature, and included mirror make it a versatile tool for touch-ups on the go. The flexible bristles provide great styling control, although they may be a bit stiff for some. With its assortment of colors, you can personalize your brush to match your style. However, the mirror may not be as useful while using the brush, and some users reported a strong initial smell. Overall, this brush is a convenient addition to your purse, gym bag, or car, ensuring you always have a reliable hair brush wherever you go.

RHOS Mini Travel Hair Brush – Pocket Detangler Brush for Wet and Dry Hair

Overall Score : 8.5/10

The RHOS Mini Travel Hair Brush is a compact and convenient brush designed for all hair types. It is perfect for travel and can easily fit into your makeup bag. The soft and elastic comb teeth make detangling wet and dry hair a breeze, while also massaging the scalp and promoting blood circulation. This brush is suitable for men, women, and children, and is available in various colors, making it a great gift option. The specially designed vent holes aid in air circulation and ensure a comfortable detangling experience. With its compact size and excellent performance, this mini hair brush is a must-have accessory for anyone on the go.

• Pocket size for travel and makeup bags
• Powerful wet & dry detangling
• Makes a great gift choice
• Specially designed vent holes for scalp comfort
• Color: 1 Pack-Mocha
• Dimension: 5.12Lx1.97Wx1.57H
• Compact and convenient for travel
• Gentle on hair with minimal pain and damage
• Promotes scalp blood circulation
• Beautifully packaged, making it a great gift
• Some users received only one brush instead of two as depicted
• Bristles may fall out for some users with fine hair

The RHOS Mini Travel Hair Brush combines portability and performance, making it an essential accessory for any traveler. Its compact size allows it to easily fit into any travel bag or purse, while its powerful detangling capabilities ensure pain-free hair grooming. Whether you have straight, curly, or thick hair, this brush will effectively tackle tangles and knots without causing damage. The specially designed vent holes provide additional scalp comfort, further enhancing the brushing experience. With its stylish design and excellent functionality, the RHOS Mini Travel Hair Brush is not only a practical tool but also a great gift option for your loved ones.

Tangle Teezer Mini Detangling Brush

Overall Score : 9.2/10

The Tangle Teezer Mini Ultimate Detangling Brush is a travel-sized hairbrush designed for wet and dry hair. It features innovative flexible teeth and 2-tier technology, which detangle and smooth hair, reducing breakage and frizz. The brush is small but super useful, making it perfect for kids and those with small hands. Its compact size allows for easy on-the-go use and fits conveniently into purses or bags. The brush comes in a beautiful Wisteria Leaf color and is designed to distribute hair products in the shower, making it a perfect shower brush as well. With a high customer rating of 4.6/5, it has received rave reviews for its ability to detangle hair effortlessly and gently, making it a must-have accessory for travel and everyday use.

• Travel-sized brush for wet and dry hair
• Perfect for distributing hair products in the shower
• Innovative flexible teeth and 2-tier technology
• Reduces breakage and frizz for glossy hair
• Small size ideal for kids and those with small hands
• Color: Wisteria Leaf
• Dimension: 6.06Lx1.26Wx2.05H
• Size: Mini Ultimate Detangler
• Effortlessly detangles wet and dry hair
• Reduces breakage and frizz for a polished look
• Compact size fits easily into purses or bags
• Perfect for kids and those with small hands
• Beautiful Wisteria Leaf color adds style
• May not effectively detangle knots from ends of thick hair
• Bristles may bend and become less effective after 6-9 months of use

The Tangle Teezer Mini Ultimate Detangling Brush is a game-changer for anyone who struggles with tangled hair. It effortlessly detangles wet and dry hair, reducing breakage and frizz for a smooth and glossy finish. Its small size and stylish design make it perfect for travel, while its innovative flexible teeth and 2-tier technology ensure effective and gentle detangling. Although it may not be suitable for thick hair with knots at the ends, this brush is highly recommended by customers who have experienced its impressive benefits. With its high customer rating and positive reviews, the Tangle Teezer Mini Ultimate Detangling Brush is a must-have accessory for anyone looking for a compact and effective hairbrush.

Portable Hair Brush Folding

Overall Score : 7.5/10

The 4Pcs Portable Hair Brush Folding is a compact and practical hair styling tool designed for travel. Made of high-quality plastic and nylon, this brush is durable and long-lasting. The package includes four folding brushes with mirrors in different colors, allowing you to add color and variety to your life. The collapsible design makes it easy to carry in your pocket or bag. The built-in mirror allows you to see the result of styling immediately. Whether you're at work, school, or the gym, this portable hair brush is perfect for fixing your hair on the go. It also makes a great gift for your loved ones. However, some customers have reported issues with the durability of the brush and mirror. Overall, with its convenience and functionality, the 4Pcs Portable Hair Brush Folding is a versatile accessory for travel.

• Quality Material Compact Brush
• Package of Pocket Hair Brush
• Comfortable Collapsible Brush
• Portable Small Brush Hair
• Perfect Gift of Mirror Brush
• Color: 4 Multi Color
• Dimension: 3.54Lx3.15Wx0.39H
• Size: 4 Count (Pack of 1)
• Durable and high-quality materials
• Variety of colors
• Convenient collapsible design
• Built-in mirror for immediate styling result
• Portable and practical for travel
• Flimsy construction reported by some customers
• Difficult to open and close for some
• Mirror may crack easily
• Package may not include all four brushes as advertised

The 4Pcs Portable Hair Brush Folding is a compact and versatile accessory for anyone who needs to fix their hair on the go. With its durable materials, variety of colors, and collapsible design, this travel brush offers convenience and practicality. The built-in mirror allows for immediate styling results, making it even more convenient. However, some customers have reported issues with the durability of the brush and mirror. Despite these drawbacks, this brush is still a great option for those looking for a portable and functional travel hair brush.

Collapsable Portable Pocket Boar Bristle Hair Brush

The Travel Folding Hair Brush is the perfect accessory for your travels. With its combination of natural boar bristles and nylon needles, this brush is designed to both untangle stubborn knots and massage the scalp. It can be used on thick, thin, frizzy, long, short, wet, or dry hair, making it versatile and practical. The folding design allows it to fit easily into pockets, purses, and clutches, making it convenient to carry wherever you go. The brush is also easy to clean and remove hair and lint from. It comes with a worry-free 12-month warranty and lifetime friendly customer service.

• Boar and Nylon Bristles
• Versatile and Practical
• 180° Folding Design
• What You Get
• Color: Amber
• Combination of boar and nylon bristles
• Versatile for all hair types
• Compact and lightweight
• Comfortable ergonomic grip
• Durable and easy to clean
• Comes with warranty and friendly customer service
• Not suitable for thicker hair
• Some customers find it too expensive for its features
• No mirror, contrary to expectations

The Travel Folding Hair Brush is a fantastic accessory for anyone on the go. It offers the perfect combination of functionality and convenience with its ability to untangle knots, massage the scalp, and fit easily into pockets or purses. While it may not be suitable for thicker hair, it remains a great option for most hair types. The compact and lightweight design make it a must-have for travelers, and the sturdy construction ensures it will last. Overall, this brush delivers on its promises and is a worthy addition to your travel accessories.

Goody Mini Cushion Hair Brush

The Goody Mini Cushion Hair Brush is the ultimate traveling companion for anyone looking to keep their hair polished and ready for the day. With its ball tipped bristles, this mini oval brush is perfect for gently detangling fine hair. Its convenient size makes it perfect for on-the-go use. Goody knows that the smallest accessory can make a big difference, and this mini brush lives up to that expectation. Whether you're a woman, man, boy, or girl, this travel hairbrush is the pain-free solution to tangles and knots. Say goodbye to tears and breakage with this must-have hair accessory.

• Mini Styling Brush: Our Goody Mini Cushion Hair Brush is the perfect traveling companion to keep you looking polished and ready to take on the day.
• Detangle-It: Ball tipped bristles for gentle detangling.
• Oval Brush: Our oval brush is great for fine hair.
• On-the-Go: You'll love the convenient mini size when you’re on-the-go.
• Goody: Goody knows that one little accessory can change everything.
• Color: Mini Oval Brush
• Dimension: 0.12Lx2.75Wx0.25H
• Convenient mini size for travel
• Gentle ball tipped bristles for detangling
• Suitable for all hair types, especially fine hair
• Affordable price
• Durable and long-lasting
• Some bristles may arrive bent
• Not suitable for those seeking a hard brush
• Quality has declined compared to older Goody brushes

The Goody Mini Cushion Hair Brush is a fantastic accessory for travelers and anyone in need of a pain-free hairbrush. Its mini size makes it easy to carry while providing effective detangling for all hair types. While there may be some minor issues with bent bristles and slightly reduced quality compared to older Goody brushes, overall, it performs admirably and is highly recommended. Whether you have fine hair or struggle with tangles and knots, this brush will become your go-to solution. With its affordable price and long-lasting durability, the Goody Mini Cushion Hair Brush is a must-have in your travel accessories collection.

Crave Naturals Detangling Brush

The Crave Naturals Glide Thru Detangling Brush is a must-have hair accessory for adults and kids. With its firm, durable bristles, it offers unmatched performance and won't lose its shape. Unlike ordinary brushes, this unique brush gently separates hair sideways, eliminating knots and tangles without causing pain or hair loss. It features kid-friendly design and soft plastic bristles that massage the scalp and promote hair growth. Its on-the-go size makes it perfect for travel or quick touch-ups throughout the day. Available in a stylish turquoise color, this brush is suitable for all hair types and is a perfect companion for your hair care routine.

• Unmatched bristle durability for long-lasting performance
• Separates hair sideways to gently unravel tough tangles
• Kid-friendly design that doesn't hurt the scalp or rip hair
• Soft plastic bristles massage the scalp and promote hair growth
• Travel-friendly size for convenience on the go
• Color: Turquoise
• Gently detangles without pain or hair loss
• Massage the scalp and stimulate hair growth
• Convenient size for travel
• May be difficult to use on very thick hair
• Handle could be more ergonomic

The Crave Naturals Detangling Brush is a game-changer for anyone struggling with knots and tangles. Its unique design and durable bristles make detangling a breeze, without causing pain or hair loss. The brush is not only functional but also stylish with its turquoise color. With its travel-friendly size, you can easily take it with you wherever you go. While it may not be suitable for very thick hair and may have a less ergonomic handle, overall, this brush is definitely worth trying. Say goodbye to hair frustrations and hello to smooth, tangle-free locks with the Crave Naturals Detangling Brush!

Trikeel Mini Hair Brush with Mirror for Girls

The Trikeel Mini Hair Brush is a must-have accessory for girls on the go. With its double function of bristles to keep your hair tidy and a mirror to ensure flawless makeup, this small yet powerful brush is a game changer. The brush features an anti-breakage air cushion that effortlessly detangles hair knots and leaves it smooth. Made of durable ABS material, the brush is comfortable to hold and massages the scalp with its flexible rubber bristles. Measuring just 6x6x1.5 cm and weighing only 0.22 ounces, it is perfect for travel or slipping into your purse. The cute pink color makes it an ideal gift for young girls or teen girls.

• Double Function: Bristles for hair, mirror for makeup
• Easy Use: Anti-breakage air cushion for detangling
• Durable Material: ABS material with rubber bristles
• Good Gift Choice for Girls: Pink Kawaii design
• Color: Pink
• Dimension: 2.64Lx2.64Wx0.59H
• Compact and travel-friendly
• Sturdy and lightweight
• Saves space in your purse
• Doubles as a mirror
• May trigger trypophobia for some individuals
• Not ideal for all hair types

The Trikeel Mini Hair Brush is an essential accessory for girls who are always on the move. Its convenient size and double function make it a practical tool to keep your hair and makeup in check. With its durable construction and compact design, it is perfect for travel or everyday use. Although it may not be suitable for all hair types and could potentially trigger trypophobia in some individuals, its overall performance and functionality make it a great addition to any girl’s purse. Treat yourself or surprise a young girl with this cute and practical brush.

Small Hair Brush, Mini Travel Hair Brush for Women/Men/Kids

The small Hair Brush is a convenient and versatile accessory for anyone on the go. With its compact size and ergonomic design, this brush is perfect for travel or for carrying in your purse or bag. The steel bristle detangling brush features firm and gentle teeth that can glide through any hair type, making it ideal for both men and women. The round steel mane is designed to easily pass through hair without scratching the scalp, allowing you to straighten thick curly hair with ease. The brush also has an air-cushioned pad with a hole to minimize damage to the head, hair, and scalp. With its rubberized and ergonomic grip, smooth edges, and lightweight wood, this brush is easy to hold and use. Additionally, it comes with a 12-month quality assurance guarantee, ensuring your satisfaction. Overall, the small Hair Brush is a high-quality, portable, and effective tool for your hairstyling needs.

• Purse Size 6.9 inch steel bristle detangling hair brush
• Firm and gentle teeth to glide through all hair types
• Round steel mane for straightening thick curly hair
• Ergonomic grip and air-cushioned pad for minimal damage
• Rubberized and ergonomic grips with light-weight wood
• Ideal for travel with perfect size and weight
• 12 months of quality assurance
• Dimension: 6.90Lx1.40Wx1.40H
• Convenient purse size
• Easy to hold and use
• Effective at detangling hair
• Good for all hair types
• Minimal damage to scalp and hair
• Ideal for travel
• Missing white tip for some customers

The small Hair Brush is a must-have accessory for anyone who cares about their hair while traveling or on the go. Its compact size, ergonomic design, and high-quality features make it a reliable and effective tool for detangling and styling hair. The brush’s steel bristles, round mane, and air-cushioned pad ensure that you can effortlessly glide through tangles and straighten even the thickest curly hair. With its rubberized and ergonomic grips, smooth wooden handle, and lightweight construction, it is comfortable to use and carry in your purse or bag. The brush also comes with a 12-month quality assurance guarantee, giving you peace of mind. Overall, the small Hair Brush is a top-notch travel accessory that delivers excellent performance and convenience.

BUYER'S GUIDE: TRAVEL HAIR BRUSH

• *Finding the perfect hair brush for your travels can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it's important to consider several factors before making your decision. Here's a comprehensive buyer's guide to help you navigate the world of travel hair brushes:*

1. Size and Portability

• Look for a travel hair brush that is compact and lightweight, designed specifically for travel purposes.
• Consider the brush's dimensions to ensure it fits comfortably in your travel bag or suitcase without taking up too much space.
• Opt for a brush with a protective case or cover to prevent damage to the bristles during transit.

2. Bristle Type

• Choose the bristle type that suits your hair texture and needs.
• Natural bristles are ideal for distributing natural oils and adding shine to your hair. They are suitable for all hair types, especially fine or thin hair.
• Synthetic bristles are great for detangling and are more resistant to heat. They work well for thick, curly, or coarse hair.
• Mixed bristle brushes combine the benefits of both natural and synthetic bristles, providing a versatile option.

3. Brush Shape and Design

• Consider the shape and design of the brush for ease of use and effective styling.
• Paddle brushes are ideal for smoothing and straightening hair, while round brushes are perfect for adding volume and creating curls.
• If you have long or thick hair, opt for a brush with a larger surface area to save time and effort.
• Ergonomic handles provide a comfortable grip, reducing strain on your hand and wrist during styling.

4. Durability and Material

• Look for a travel hair brush made from high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity.
• Brushes made of durable plastic or lightweight aluminum are ideal for travel due to their resilience and resistance to damage.
• Consider brushes with heat-resistant materials if you frequently use heated styling tools.

5. Multi-functionality

• Some travel hair brushes come with additional features to enhance their functionality.
• Look for brushes that offer built-in mirrors or compartments for storing small hair accessories like hairpins or elastics.
• Dual-action brushes, featuring both boar bristles and detangling capabilities, provide added convenience in one product.

6. Cleaning and Maintenance

• Consider the ease of cleaning and maintenance when choosing a travel hair brush.
• Look for brushes with removable bristle pads or heads for easy cleaning and removing tangled hair.
• Opt for brushes that are resistant to product build-up and can be easily wiped clean.

7. Price and Brand

• Determine your budget before making a purchase, as travel hair brushes are available at various price points.
• Research different brands and read reviews to ensure you choose a reputable brand known for its quality products.
• Consider the warranty or guarantee offered by the brand to ensure your investment is protected.

8. Compatibility with Hair Accessories

• If you frequently use hair accessories such as hairdryers or straighteners, ensure that your chosen travel hair brush is compatible with these tools.
• Look for brushes that are heat-resistant and can withstand the heat emitted from styling tools to prevent damage.

9. Customer Reviews and Recommendations

• Before making a final decision, read customer reviews and recommendations to gain insights into the performance, durability, and user experience of different travel hair brushes.
• Pay attention to reviews from individuals with similar hair types and needs to make an informed choice.

Frequently Asked Questions about 11 Best Travel Hair Brush for 2023

Yes, travel hair brushes are available in various bristle types, making them suitable for all hair types. Consider your hair texture and needs when choosing the bristle type.

It is generally recommended to avoid using brushes on wet hair, as it can cause breakage. Instead, opt for wide-toothed combs or detangling brushes specifically designed for wet hair.

Yes, many travel hair brushes are designed for styling purposes. Look for brushes with specific shapes or features that cater to your desired hairstyle, such as round brushes for curls or paddle brushes for straightening.

Yes, travel hair brushes are typically allowed in carry-on luggage. However, it is always recommended to check with the specific airline’s guidelines to ensure compliance with their regulations.

It is advisable to clean your travel hair brush regularly, ideally once a week. This helps remove product build-up and keeps the brush in optimal condition.

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Stylists Say These Are the Best Brushes To Use if You Have Fine Hair

The best brushes for fine hair will add volume and make hair care a thousand times easier and more effective—you just have to know where to look to find one. If you’re in the fine hair family, you’re probably well aware of all the good and bad that comes along with having this hair type. It can require less maintenance compared to other hair types since you can have a wash-and-go approach to styling (yay!). On the other hand, you’re subject to greasy, limp roots and hair that’s too stubborn to hold a curl. (Boo!) The good news is, there are certain tools and products that can help you achieve the kind of hairstyle you want — you just have to know exactly what you’re dealing with.

• 01 Thin hair vs. fine hair
• 02 Why you need a special brush for fine hair
• 03 Best brushes for fine hair
• 04 More tips on taking care of fine hair
• 05 Should you brush your hair when it's wet or dry?
• Andrew Fitzsimons , celebrity hairstylist and founder of Andrew Fitzsimons Hair
• Annagjid "Kee" Taylor , celebrity hairstylist, salon owner, and founder of Shear Genius Collection
• Raven Hurtado , hairstylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago

Best brushes for fine hair at a glance

• Best splurge: Mason Pearson Handy Bristle Brush ($175)
• Best with extra bristles: Denman 9-Row Brush ($24)
• Best with ballpoint tips: Briogeo Vegan Boar Bristle Hair Brush ($28)
• Best large: Denman Natural Bristle with Nylon Brush ($36)
• Best round: Cricket Technique Tourmaline Thermal Round Brush, 1-1/2'' ($19)
• Best for short or medium hair: T3 Volume Round Brush ($35)
• Best detangling: Tangle Teezer Fine & Fragile Hair Brush ($13)
• Best budget: Conair Ceramic Wood All-Purpose Boar Hair Brush ($13)
• Best hydrating: Wet Brush Go Green Tea Tree Oil Infused Hair Brush ($17)
• Best soft: Drybar Super Lemon Drop ($20)
• Best paddle: Wigo Perfect Finish Boar Blend Bristles Paddle Hair Brush ($26)
• Best for wet hair: Trademark Beauty Tame Your Mane Hairbrush ($18)

First: thin hair vs. fine hair

When people think of fine hair, the first thing that comes to mind is thin strands, but those are actually two different things. According to celebrity hairstylist, salon owner, and founder of Shear Genius Collection,  Annagjid “Kee” Taylor tells us, “Fine hair is usually classified as thin, but it typically refers to the size of the hair shaft versus the amount of hair you have.” She goes on to explain that fine hair is usually softer and appears thinner compared to other hair textures because the natural oils in the hair will weigh it down.  Andrew Fitzsimons , a celebrity hairstylist whose clients include Megan Fox and Khloé Kardashian, adds that fine hair strands are “typically smaller in diameter because they are missing the medulla, the innermost layer of the hair shaft.” The more you know!

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Why do you need a special brush for fine hair?

Fine hair is also a lot more fragile and delicate, which means that taking care of it may require specific tools, including the brush you use. “Those with fine hair should be reaching for boar bristle brushes,” says Fitzsimons. “This type of brush has soft bristles that are gentle on the hair and scalp. The bristles' stiff texture detangles hair without pulling too hard, which can lead to hair breakage during styling.” He also says that boar bristle brushes are great at removing dead hairs and distributing the scalp’s natural oils. (And don’t worry if you’re against animal-derived products; there are great vegan boar bristle brushes as well.)

Read on for the best brushes for fine hair that will detangle without damage and bring it from flat to fierce in no time—and keep scrolling for more tips and tricks.

Best brushes for fine hair

Considered by many to be the Rolls Royce of hair brushes, a Mason Pearson is a true investment as it’s well-made and can last for many years. Fitzsimons calls this one an “essential brush because it detangles the hair with ease and stimulates the scalp with every stroke.”

• Boar bristle
• Cushion conforms to the scalp
• Includes nylon cleaning brush

Denman is a great lower-priced alternative to Mason Pearson, and this nine-row option fits in with Taylor’s recommendation to use a brush that has more bristles. According to Taylor, the additional rows of bristles are great for detangling thin hair without tugging on the strands. “This will really distribute the oils from your scalp evenly while also detangling the hair,” she says.

• More bristles
• Some reviewers say brush head slides off handle

This vegan boar bristle brush is great for all types of hair, including fine, whether it’s straight, curly, coiled, or wavy. The ballpoint tips massage the scalp gently, distributing oil throughout your hair.

• Ball point tips to massage scalp
• Vegan and cruelty-free
• Multi-layered bristles
• May not be good for people with hair that tangles easily

Fitzsommons also likes this brush from Denman since it combines both boar bristles and nylon pins to detangle, smooth, and helps add shine to the hair.

• Flexible nylon bristles
• Detangling and smoothing
• Bristles are stiff
• Handle is small

When it comes to adding life into limp, fine hair, Taylor says to reach for a round brush, which helps bring volume and height into the mix. “This is perfect for adding more volume and the tourmaline and ionic properties reduce frizz and static,” she says.

• Heat-resistant nylon bristles
• Doesn’t snag in hair
• Some reviewers say it creates static

If you have short or medium-length fine hair, this round brush is ideal for blow-drying as the design allows air to circulate freely in the heat-resistant bristles. It’s also rose-gold, so it’ll look pretty on your vanity.

• Heat-resistant bristles
• Non-slip handle
• Short, sharp bristles

If you’re in the market for a brush that you can take for travel or just pop in your bag, this one by Tangle Teezer is a great choice. Its two-tiered design allows you to detangle knots fast without causing damage to your strands. ( You can also shop here on Amazon .)

• Ergonomic design
• Harder to grip

Another great option for boar bristles that’s super affordable, this Conair brush is especially good for fine hair folks with shorter cuts. Plus, the classic wooden design is incredibly chic.

• Boar bristles
• Good for all hair types, especially short hair
• Bristles are short

This vegan boar bristle brush not only protects from breakage while you detangle and smooth your hair, but it’s also infused with tea tree oil, so every time you brush you get additional nourishment with each strand. ( You can also shop here on Amazon. )

• Tea tree oil infused cushion
• Some reviewers say brush causes static

Need a good detangling brush? This one from Drybar has soft, flexible brushes that will eliminate annoying knots without damaging your delicate fine strands.

• Flexible bristles
• Can be used on wet or dry hair
• Some reviewers say bristles break easily

This paddle brush combines both boar bristles and nylon bristles. Boar bristles “add shine and distributes natural oils from the roots throughout the hair to increase moisture and achieve healthy hair,” says Hurtado, and the nylon bristles help gently detangle. The paddle design gives you plenty of brush surface to work with, so you can spend less time styling and more time rocking that style.

• Large paddle design
• Both boar and nylon bristles
• Sturdy wood handle
• Better for people with a lot of hair

This brush is great for detangling wet hair (it can be used for dry hair, too). “It has flexible silicone bristles that are tough enough for knots and easily glide through hair so it won’t cause breakage. This brush applies tension, but also bends when you don’t need it. I recommend it for people who tangle pretty easy, fine hair, and for people who have highlighted hair since highlights can sometimes cause tangles which is normal,” says Hurtado. ( You can also shop here on Amazon .)

• Flexible, dual length bristles
• Works on both wet and dry hair
• Smoothes hair
• Some reviewers say the bristles are stiff

Additional tips for caring for and styling fine hair

There are two things Taylor says to avoid when styling fine hair: overbrushing and excess product. “Thin hair is more susceptible to breakage so decreasing the amount of friction you add while brushing is best to avoid that,” she says. “Also, make sure not to add too much product depending on the style, you don't want to weigh it down more than it naturally is.” If you want some extra hold, try a lightweight hairspray for fine hair .

In addition to using a brush with soft bristles, Raven Hurtado, a stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, says to "always start brushing hair from the ends first and work your way up."

Should you brush your hair when it's wet or dry?

Fitzsimons also has post-shampooing tips and if you should brush wet hair . “When drying your hair, use towels with a softer material, like a microfiber towel, and brushing it when it's about 50 percent dry. I would also recommend keeping it moisturized—use products such as detanglers and leave-in conditioners.”

He also says that when you brush your hair, do it in small sections, working from the ends up to the roots, and minimize how much you brush your hair. “Aim to keep it between once or twice a day to help distribute your scalp’s natural oils and avoid breakage,” he says. Plus you'll want to learn how to clean a hairbrush to keep your strands healthy.

"If you do brush your hair when it’s wet, use a wide tooth comb or a brush designed for wet hair," adds Hurtado.

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The 12 Best Hair Brushes for Fine Hair That Make Detangling a Breeze

Designed to nurture and protect your fragile strands.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Top picks for the best hair brushes for fine hair in 2024

Best Paddle Brush for Thin Hair

Dyson paddle brush.

Best Splurge Brush

Mason pearson pocket mixture hair brush.

Best Round Brush for Blowouts

Y.s. park hair brush.

“Fine hair is the most fragile type of hair, so picking the right brush is very important,” explains celebrity hairstylist Matt Collins . “If you buy a high-quality brush, you will have to replace it very rarely, whereas cheaper brushes will break down very quickly, and you will have to replace them more often,” he adds. For daily detangling purposes, he recommends choosing a sturdy paddle brush that features synthetic bristles, a softer cushion, and a seamless base to prevent your individual hairs from catching on it. Those looking for ways to make their hair grow faster should also consider opting for something that includes both synthetic and boar bristles, which collaborate to delicately detangle and stimulate blood flow in the scalp, encouraging hair growth .

Below, we’ve found the 12 best brushes for fine hair. With these brushes, you can get your strands tangle-free without the damage. Give your hair the princess treatment it deserves!

Dyson’s hair tools are at the top of their game, so it makes sense that the company also produces a premium hair brush—the Paddle Brush possesses gentle bristles for painless detangling. “The handle is the perfect size,” Collins says. “The material is smooth, so it’s easy to clean, and it won’t get nasty-looking with wear,” he adds.

Materials: Synthetic bristles

An ELLE editor says: “With great pain comes an even greater lesson: Invest in a quality paddle brush, people. I didn’t understand the importance of one until I scraped my scalp quite a few times with brushes that had bristles falling out, saw my hair tear out as a result of the missing bristles, and, worst of all, had to throw a bunch of brushes out once the adhesive holding the cushion together dissolved. Word of advice: buy this Dyson paddle brush to save your hair and wallet the hassle. This brush is firm and strong and can withstand a range of hair textures, from my coarse, coily natural hair to whatever texture wig I’m wearing.” — Nerisha Penrose , ELLE.com beauty commerce editor

Here at ELLE.com, we believe in quality over quantity, and nobody can deny that Mason Pearson is the definition of quality when it comes to hair brushes. The mixture of boar and synthetic bristles in this mini one is effective and sturdy—get ready to have it by your side for decades. The smaller size makes it perfect for slipping into your purse or carry-on, and it’ll help keep every strand in place wherever you go.

Materials: Boar and synthetic bristles

Amazon rating : 4.7/5 stars

An ELLE editor says : “This brush is little, but I love it a whole lot. As with all Mason Pearson brushes, this one’s cushion is supple, its bristles are just the right amount of firmness, and it massages the scalp and spreads out my hair’s oils. I have fine hair myself, and I’m picky when it comes to brushes. But Mason Pearson just can’t be beat.”—— Carol Lee, ELLE.com associate beauty e-commerce writer

If you're searching for a brush that will give you a salon-worthy blowout, look no further than YS Park’s round hair brush. For best results, use the brush to pull a section of your hair away from your scalp (making sure that you’re creating enough tension), then roll the brush inward toward your scalp while applying heat from your blow dryer. Keep repeating this in-and-out motion until you’ve passed through each section.

Materials: Boar and nylon bristles

Amazon rating : 4.5/5 stars

A n Amazon reviewer says : “Buy it! I get my hair done a few times a year professionally and when they use this brush my hairstyle looks polished and lasts longer! Glad I found it on Amazon!”

SHASH Nylon Boar Bristle Brush

To achieve smooth and silky strands, a soft boar brush is a must-have. Thanks to the smooth bristles, boar brushes actually help to hydrate hair while reducing frizz. Because these bristles are so soft, you’ll also feel like you’re giving yourself a relaxing scalp massage.

Amazon rating : 4.4/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says : “This brush has been perfect for my daughter. Usually she hates to brush her hair, but this didn’t even bother her while brushing the tangles. Would purchase again.”

TANGLE TEEZER The Fine and Fragile Ultimate Detangling Brush

Fine hair folks, you’ll want to be extra cautious while detangling your strands in the shower. Wet hair is much weaker than dry hair, and fine hair is already susceptible to breakage. To avoid losing excess strands in the shower, try Tangle Teezer’s detangling brush. The soft bristles are designed to gently separate and detangle fine and fragile hair, so you won’t have to worry about damage.

Amazon rating : 4.6/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says : “The Tangle Teezer Ultimate Detangler Plant Brush has completely transformed the way I care for my hair, and I couldn't be happier with the results! This brush works like magic, effortlessly gliding through both wet and dry hair to eliminate tangles and knots. It's an absolute game-changer for those with unruly hair like mine. I no longer dread the post-shower tangle battle; this brush makes detangling a breeze.”

Crown Affair The Brush No. 003

Crown Affair’s Brush No. 003 is crafted specifically for fine hair, and because of its boar bristles, it makes for the perfect styling tool. The boar bristles are also useful for distributing natural scalp oils throughout your strands, which helps to moisturize your hair. Whip up a snatched sleek bun with ease sans any flyways.

Crown Affair rating : 4.8 /5 stars

A Crown Affair reviewer says : “Having a nice brush is definitely worth the splurge— the difference is noticeable! My hair looks shinier and feels so soft. I absolutely recommend this product for anyone looking to level up their routine.”

T3 Smooth Paddle Professional Styling Brush

Nobody wants to deal with burnt plastic in their hair. Thankfully, you can give yourself a blowout worry-free with this heat-resistant brush, whose bristles are designed to smooth frizz and go easy on delicate hair.

Materials: Nylon bristles

Bluemercury rating : 4.4/5 stars

A Bluemercury reviewer says : “Loving my new hair brush. Hair is smooth and doesn’t break when I use this brush.”

Sisley-Paris The Radiance Brush

Fine hair can be prone to tangles, especially if you have a little texture to your hair. Sisley-Paris' Radiance brush runs through knots with ease and avoids causing painful tears. It’ll also give you a gentle scalp massage while it’s at it!

Bluemercury rating : 4.9/5 stars

A Sisley-Paris reviewer says : “Best brush I’ve ever had. Massages scalp and is gentle on my straight mid-length hair. I feel it brushes every hair separately. Worth every penny.”

Aveda Wooden Paddle Brush

There’s nothing more aggravating than the feeling of a brush tugging on your strands. If you’re using a brush that causes discomfort, swap it out for Aveda’s wooden paddle brush. This brush is carefully crafted to reduce tension, giving you a stress-free detangling experience.

Aveda rating : 4.6/5 stars

An Aveda reviewer says : “I have thin long dry hair that are very prone to become frizzy and tangle together and this brush saved me!!”

Denman Curly Hair Brush D3

There’s a common misconception that curly hair can’t be fine, and that’s simply untrue. The word “fine” refers to width, not texture. For those with both curly and fine hair, this Denman brush is an absolute lifesaver. The bristles are long enough to navigate the depth of curls, but smooth enough not to agitate fine strands.

An Amazon reviewer says : “I’ve been using the Denman brush for years now and it always leaves my curls looking juicy and defined.”

Belula Boar Bristle Hair Brush Set

If you’re in the market for a brush that will detangle and style, you’ve found the right one. Belula’s multi-purpose brush softens hair while styling and lessens frizz while detangling. Plus, the package comes with a comb, a headband, and a travel bag, so you’ll have a complete set for home or on the go.

Materials: Boar bristles

An Amazon reviewer says : “What a luxurious brush. The bristles are soft, and smooths hair in sections, and distributes natural oils so well. Never another brand.”

Diane 2-In-1 Premium Styling Brush

For nearly $13, Diane’s 2-in-1 styling brush features synthetic bristles for detangling and boar bristles for a salon-worthy finish. The wooden handle is also lightweight and easy to maneuver to prevent cramped hands from extending your hair styling time longer than it needs to be.

Ulta rating : 5/5 stars

An Ulta reviewer says : “I spent 6 months deciding on a new hair brush, went with this one, and I'm SO GLAD I did. It's the best brush I've owned. The thin bristle side detangles better, but still gentler, than any wet brush. The boar bristle side is great for redistribution of oil on second and third day hair.:”

Meet the Experts

Matt Collins is a celebrity hairstylist and a Dyson global styling ambassador.

What kind of brush is best for fine hair and why?

With so many options out there, it’s hard to identify just one type of brush that takes the top spot, so we’ve pointed out a couple of options. According to Collins, a paddle brush with synthetic bristles and a sturdy cushion is a must-have. Collins points out that the shape of the brush matters too, suggesting that a round end won’t cause any aggravation if it comes into contact with the scalp. “Usually fine haired individuals tend to have sensitive scalps,” Collins adds.

In addition to synthetic bristles, boar bristles are also ideal for smoothing the hair while effectively spreading the scalp’s natural oils across the hair strands without causing any friction.

Why is it important to select a good quality brush, especially for fine hair?

As Collins mentioned earlier, you’ll want to invest in a high-quality brush especially for fine hair, which is prone to damage. After all, the health of your hair is directly correlated to your grooming habits, so choosing an exceptional brush is imperative if you want to maintain strong, tangle-free strands.

Why Trust ELLE Beauty?

As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, Lauren Tappan spoke to a celebrity hairstylist, and she and Carol Lee scoured the internet to find the best hair brushes for thin hair.

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The Best Hairbrushes for Thin Hair and Hair Loss

Treat your hair with TLC to keep those strands soft and beautiful.

In addition to fact-checking for Real Simple, Jillian covers various topics from food and wine to luxury travel and culture guides for outlets such as Travel + Leisure, Forbes, and Conde Nast Traveler.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

• How to Shop

Take Our Word for It

Real Simple / Kristin Kempa

The proper hairbrush for your hair type is vital—the wrong one could be doing more harm than good. For thin hair in particular, gentleness is the most important factor to consider in a hairbrush, says Dr. Alan J. Bauman , MD, ABHRS, IAHRS, FISHRS, founder, CEO, and medical director of Bauman Medical Hair Transplant & Hair Loss Treatment Center.

“Harsh brushing can further damage fragile hair strands, irritate the scalp, and exacerbate hair loss,” Dr. Bauman says, adding that soft bristles typically made from materials like natural boar hair or nylon are best.

To find the best hairbrushes for thin hair, we researched dozens of the most popular brushes on the market, taking into account the bristle material, shape, size, and special hair concerns. For recommendations on what to look for in a hairbrush if you have thin hair or hair loss, we sought insight from Dr. Bauman and Kimberly Gueldner , founder and leading stylist at Voël Hair .

Best Overall

Crown affair the brush no. 003.

It’s made with pure boar bristles, and the ergonomic handle offers a comfortable grip.

The stiff boar bristles may take some getting used to.

Delicate tresses are in for a treat with The Brush No. 003 from Crown Affair. It’s handmade in Italy using pure boar bristles, which go to work gently on hair, coating each strand from root to tip with the scalp’s natural oils. Each stroke prevents hair from becoming dry and brittle and even provides the scalp with a nice massage . Those with fine or thinning hair will notice more shine and volume with each use.

The boar bristles are nestled in a flexible cushioned pad with a breathing hole that helps reduce tension on the scalp. The ergonomic handle is made from natural beechwood and offers a comfortable, firm grip. Just be sure to use it on your hair only when it’s dry to avoid damage and brush from scalp to root to detangle hair and restore shine .

Shape: Oval | Bristle Material: Boar | Hair Types: Thin and fine

Best Budget

Black egg wooden boar bristle brush.

It’s extremely gentle on fine or fragile hair.

Some might find the bristles to be too soft for their hair texture.

This oval brush has a lightweight beechwood handle that offers a comfortable grip. The soft bristles are made from adult boar hair, and each one goes through a rigorous screening process that makes them soft and full of natural luster. This process actually removes much of the oil in those natural bristles, but it leaves just enough to help balance out the oil in your own hair and scalp every time you brush. 

The soft bristles work to gently remove frizz , plus it comes with a wide-tooth mahogany comb that also works well to detangle and distribute product through wet hair. In fact, if you’re new to natural brushes, the manufacturer recommends using the comb first to detangle and defrizz before diving into the daily use of the boar brush. 

Best for Wet Hair

Tangle teezer the ultimate detangler fine & fragile.

The widely spaced soft bristles take it easy on fragile hair.

Although this is very gentle, you might still prefer a brush with natural or nylon bristles.

Wet hair deserves proper care no matter the hair type, but it is especially important to take it easy on fine and fragile hair. If you're familiar with the Ultimate Detangler from Tangle Teezer, know that this one is optimized for fragile hair with flex teeth that are even softer than the original.

This oblong brush does have plastic bristles, but they are soft and flexible. Plus, they don't have tips that will eventually fall off and cause your hair to snag. The slim handle offers an ergonomic grip, and the widely spaced bristles make quick work of detangling wet hair. The long teeth work to remove knots while the short teeth help smooth strands; they work together to reduce breakage and frizz. As a bonus, this brush comes in a few cool different colors, like Hypnotic Heather and Lilac/Mint.

Shape: Oblong | Bristle Material: Plastic | Hair Types: Fine, fragile, thin 

Best Splurge

Sisley-paris the radiance brush.

Sisley-Paris

You can use it as a wet or dry brush, and it makes your hair noticeably softer and shinier.

It’s pricey, especially if you need additional brushes or combs to style your hair.

A good paddle brush is a great tool for smoothing hair and stimulating the scalp . The Radiance Brush from Sisley-Paris has soft, supple bristles that work gently on both and make it easy to detangle hair and keep frizz at bay. All hair types can use this, wet or dry, and with regular use, you should notice shinier and more voluminous hair. It’s understandable that this brush might give you a bit of sticker shock, but it's worth the splurge. 

Shape: Rectangle paddle | Bristle Material: Not listed | Hair Types: All

Best Paddle

Dyson paddle brush.

It’s heat-resistant, so it’s perfect to use while drying your hair.

Some might find the weighted handle too heavy.

If you want a new hairbrush to go along with your Dyson Supersonic hair dryer — or you're looking for an excuse to finally splurge on one—this paddle brush will be a great addition to your haircare lineup. The flexible bristles are set in an oval configuration on a cushioned base that puts less tension on the scalp. The handle is weighted, too, so it feels balanced in the hand when styling. 

While this brush is gentle enough for all hair types, it’s also rather durable. It’s heat-resistant up to 302°F, so it's the perfect brush to grab when it's time for a blowout at home . We also like that this brush comes in five different colors: rosé, fuchsia, purple, black, and Prussian blue.

Shape: Oval paddle brush | Bristle Material: Not listed | Hair Types: All

Belula Boar Bristle Round Brush for Blow Drying Set

It’s a great size for blowouts, plus it comes with clips and a brush cleaner.

Some bristles will fall out with use.

A round brush could spell trouble for delicate hair, but this one promises to be gentle. It has a combination of boar and nylon bristles that go easy on fragile strands. The 2.7-inch barrel is great for blowouts—it’s large enough so that you don’t have to worry about it getting tangled. Unlike other round brushes with harsher bristles, this one works to distribute the natural oils from your scalp through your strands so that your hair looks shiny and silky.  

This brush comes with three crocodile hair clips to help separate your hair for easy styling, and the included hair cleaner tool makes it easy to clean out the bristles between uses. The best part? This brush comes with a two-month guarantee; if it’s not right for your hair, you can send it back for a full refund. 

Shape: Round | Bristle Material: Boar and nylon | Hair Types: All

Shash Boar Bristle Classic Hair Brush

The 100% boar bristle brush stimulates your scalp to promote healthy hair growth.

You might prefer a brush with a heftier handle. 

Natural boar bristles are best for hair that needs a little TLC, so it makes sense that a brush from Shash, a company known for making boar bristle brushes since 1869, made our list. This German-made brush has hundreds of natural bristles at the ready to gently glide the natural oils from your scalp and distribute them evenly through your hair. 

Not only does this brush cut down on scalp irritation, including itching and dandruff, but it also promotes healthy hair growth. It's like giving a gentle exfoliation to your scalp every time you use it. The smooth handle has an ergonomic design, so it feels comfortable in your hand while brushing and styling. If you’re not impressed with its performance and the company’s 150+ year reputation, you can return the brush for your money back.

Best for Detangling

Wet brush original detangler.

The bristles are super flexible for quick and gentle detangling.

You might prefer something with natural bristles.

The aptly named Wet Brush is indeed great for detangling wet hair, but it also works great for getting knots out of dry hair. The IntelliFlex bristles are nestled in a cushioned base that reduces tension as it glides through your hair, wet or dry, without fear of snagging brittle or fragile hair.

The bristles are sturdy yet flexible enough to work through all types of hair for a painless detangling experience. In fact, you'll experience 45% less breakage and need to expend 55% less effort to get your hair smooth. We like that it comes in a variety of different colors, though that’s really just a bonus when it comes to the actual performance of this brush. 

Shape: Oblong | Bristle Material: IntelliFlex | Hair Types: Thin and fine

Best Low Tension

Aveda wooden paddle brush.

The extended bristles allow for easy detangling and will help you achieve a silky-smooth straight style.

Some say the handle isn’t as ergonomic as they’d like it to be.

The Aveda Wooden Paddle Brush features a flexible cushioned base to help reduce the tension on your scalp as it glides through your strands. The long bristles on this rectangular paddle gently massage and stimulate the scalp to promote healthy hair growth, too. They’re widely spaced, which makes it easy to quickly remove tangles from all hair types. The long wooden handle offers a comfortable grip, and the whole thing is lightweight, so you won’t get hand fatigue as you brush and style your strands. This brush is great for achieving smooth, straight styles.

Best Sculpting

Paul mitchell pro tools 413 sculpting brush.

Paul Mitchell  

It’s lightweight and easy to use when styling wet or dry hair.

The balls on the tips of the brushes tend to fall off over time.

This small yet mighty brush from Paul Mitchell is a budget-friendly addition to your hair care routine. It’s got flexible, widely spaced bristles that work gently through wet or dry hair to smooth and detangle. It's perfect to use for blow drying or finishing touches on any hairstyle. 

The design is slim and lightweight to reduce hand fatigue during brushing and styling. It’s also great for travel: Since it’s compact, it should fit in most makeup bags . For home use, you’ll likely use this Paul Mitchell brush to complement your hair tool arsenal rather than as your single go-to hairbrush, but it’s a no-brainer for the price.

Shape: Rectangular | Bristle Material: Not listed | Hair Types: Thin and fine

The Crown Affair The Brush No. 003 is the top pick, because the pure boar bristles are gentle on delicate strands and the handle offers a comfortable grip. For a budget-friendly pick, we recommend the soft-bristled Black Egg Boar Bristle Hair Brush .

How to Shop for Hairbrushes for Thin Hair Like a Pro

The type of hairbrush you need depends on what you’re going to be using it for—anything from a gentle detangler to work through wet hair post-shower to a round brush for blowouts to an everyday brush to add shine and body.

The size, shape, and color of said brushes are a matter of personal preference, but where possible, Dr. Bauman recommends keeping an eye on the spacing of the bristles. “Brushes with widely spaced bristles are less likely to tangle or pull on thin hair, reducing the risk of breakage,” he says. “This feature helps prevent further damage to already fragile hair strands.”

Bristle Material

You’ll see that many of the selections on this list contain bristles made from natural boar hair, nylon, or some combination of the two. When choosing a gentle brush for your delicate hair, Dr. Bauman says to avoid anything with sharp or too-rigid bristles. 

“Brushes with sharp or rigid bristles can cause friction and damage to delicate hair, leading to breakage and increased hair loss,” he says. “Instead, opt for brushes with flexible and smooth bristles that glide through the hair without causing unnecessary stress.”

Base Cushioning

If you’ve got fine, thinning, or otherwise fragile hair, it’s important that your hairbrush is gentle enough to not cause further stress to your scalp and hair. For this reason, Dr. Bauman recommends looking for a brush with a cushioned base. 

“A brush with a cushioned base provides additional support and flexibility, reducing tension on the hair follicles and minimizing breakage,” he says. “This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals with thinning hair, as it helps protect the hair shafts from damage during brushing.”

Questions You Might Ask 

What type of brush is the least damaging to thin hair.

Boar and nylon bristles are seen frequently among the brushes on our list because they’re much more gentle on thin hair. If you are looking to avoid further damage to your hair, avoid brushes with balls on the tips of the bristles, Gueldner says. The balls can easily break off, causing the bristles to snag and pull at your hair. 

Instead, opt for brushes with softer bristles—a mixture of boar and nylon. “I think softer bristles on the brush are helpful, and mixed bristle brushes are nice, as well,” Gueldner says.

How often should you brush thin hair?

Infrequent, gentle brushings are the way to go with thin hair, according to Dr. Bauman. “Aim to brush your hair only when necessary to style or detangle it, rather than excessively throughout the day,” he says.

When it’s time to pick up the brush, Gueldner recommends taking it easy on your tresses. “Start from the bottom and work your way up,” she says. “It’s more gentle on the hair.” 

Can you brush thin hair when it’s wet?

Yes, but be even more careful when doing so. “Hair is most fragile when it’s wet,” Gueldner says. “Always apply a smoothing product like a cream or oil mid-shaft to ends to soften the hair before brushing.” A wide-tooth comb works well to distribute the product gently through the hair, she adds.

This article was written by Barbara Bellesi Zito , a freelance lifestyle writer based in Staten Island, N.Y. To compile this list of best hairbrushes for thin hair, she researched products from top brands while considering factors like bristle material, brush shape, and hair needs. For expert advice on what consumers should know when purchasing hairbrushes for thin hair, she consulted Dr. Alan J. Bauman , MD, ABHRS, IAHRS, FISHRS, Founder, CEO & Medical Director of Bauman Medical Hair Transplant & Hair Loss Treatment Center , and Kimberly Gueldne r, founder and leading stylist at Voël Hair .

Related Articles

We only recommend products we love and that we think you will, too. We may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was written by our Commerce team.

Curly or straight, keeping your hair protected from unnecessary damage is probably your biggest hair-related concern — and fine hair is particularly susceptible to damage. While heat styling tools and sulfate-free shampoos are well-known troublemakers, sub-par hair brushes are another culprit behind breakage. The best brushes for fine hair are gentle on the hair, won't tug on strands or tangles, and help evenly distribute your scalp's natural oils along the hair's shaft.

Is a boar bristle brush good for fine hair?

Boar bristle brushes are generally considered a must-have for fine hair, but why? Their bristles are stiff enough to detangle, but according to Jordi Martinez , stylist at FEKKAI SoHo , “Boar bristles are more gentle with the delicate structure of fine hair.” They also do a phenomenal job of distributing the scalp's natural oils from root to tip and softly removing dirt and debris from hair. Damaged hair can benefit from an extra-soft boar bristle brush that helps stimulate the scalp, which boosts circulation to hair follicles, and if you like a good blowout, the best round brushes for fine thin hair are often made with 100% boar bristles.

Are nylon bristles good for hair?

That said, 100% boar bristle brushes aren't the only ones you should have on your radar. Brushes with a combination of boar and nylon bristles are great for blow-drying and detangling, especially if you want a hairbrush for use on wet hair . “The nylon bristles add some strength and consistency to the boar ones,” Martinez wrote. “They also help reduce static.” Whichever materials you decide to go with, remember that brushing gently is absolutely essential.

Shop The Best Brushes For Thin Hair

In a hurry? Here are the best brushes for thin hair.

• An Affordable Boar Bristle Brush With Great Reviews: Belula Boar Bristle Brush
• An Editor-Approved Brush With Boar & Nylon Bristles: MIŠEL Professional Styling Boar Bristle Hair Brush
• A Detangling Brush That Works On Wet Or Dry Hair: Tangle Teezer Salon Elite Hairbrush
• A Classic Brush With Boar & Nylon Bristles: Denman Soft Nylon and Boar Bristle Brush
• A Round Brush That's Great For Blow-Drying Fine Hair: Care Me Round Vented Hair Brush With Natural Boar Bristles
• A Boar Bristle Brush For Less Than $10: Diane Soft 100% Boar Wave Brush
• A Static-Fighting Cushion Brush That's Perfect For Long, Fine Hair: Denman Cushion Brush Nylon Bristles, 9-Row
• The Stylist’s Pick That’s Worth The Splurge: YS Park Luster Wood Styler Hair Brush

An Affordable Boar Bristle Brush With Great Reviews

• Also available on Walmart , $25

With thousands of positive reviews on Amazon, this Belula hair brush is a great way to go if you're looking for an affordable option with real boar bristles. This brush for thin hair and fine hair features a bamboo handle and soft bristles that smooth your strands and distribute oils for natural conditioning. Keep in mind that it’s probably too soft to detangle medium or coarse hair and that this option isn’t necessarily recommended for styling.

Helpful Amazon review: "I have long, straight, fine hair, and plastic brushes (the majority of what you see in stores today) just shred my hair. I did some research and discovered Belula. I am so pleased with this brush, I bought another one to keep in my purse, so I don't have to resort to plastic brushes or combs breaking my hair!”

An Editor-Approved Brush With Boar & Nylon Bristles

For less than $30, this boar and nylon bristle brush is an editor favorite that’s slightly more affordable than the similar Denman . “My stylist recommended that I use this Misel brush on my long, fine, very-dyed hair, and it's made a major difference in its softness and strength,” explains Bustle editor Caroline Goldstein . “It works perfectly fine as a detangler, but I like it best for evenly distributing products (and oils, if my hair is unwashed) from scalp to ends — and making it visibly shinier in the process.” Thanks to the combination of bristles, you really do get that dual functionality, with the nylon bristles helping to detangle and the boar bristles distributing products and natural oils for smoother, shinier hair. It comes in two different sizes, and Amazon reviewers with fine hair seem to be big fans of the brush as well, raving about how well it smooths and detangles without pain or pulling.

Helpful Amazon review: “ Amazing! I have very thin hair, and not a whole lot of it. I wash it every other day, try to go to every 2 days but it looks greasy. I think this will help significantly in prolonging time between washes. It doesn’t pull my hair and it leaves it without frizz. Happy with the purchase!”

A Detangling Brush That Works On Wet Or Dry Hair

• Also available on Ulta , $13

Knots and snarls can cause breakage regardless of hair type, but they really wreak havoc when you have fine hair, which is why it's important to invest in a good detangling brush like this award-winning one from Tangle Teezer. Featuring memory-flex bristles that are firm but still gentle on sensitive hair follicles, this brush can be used on wet or dry hair and glides through it with ease. It's constructed with a mix of long and short teeth, the former to detangle your hair and the latter to smooth it. According to the brand, the brush is so gentle that it can even be used on hair extensions, weaves, and wigs.

Helpful Amazon review: "I have very thin hair that tangles if I look at it. I shed like crazy and lost tons of hair when I used my old brush. But this new brush is everything it advertised. I still get tangles, but I only lose a couple of hairs due to breakage. It runs right through and my hair feels so soft. I left my friend try it who has lots of thick hair, and it worked perfectly for her wet hair. I recommend this product wholeheartedly.”

A Classic Brush With Boar & Nylon Bristles

• Also available on Sears , $41

Denman is a well-loved brand, and this highly rated brush combines two fantastic fine-hair helpers: boar bristles and nylon bristles. The soft boar bristles are gentle on delicate hair, and they distribute oils for natural sheen and protection. Meanwhile, the flexible nylon bristles add a little detangling power while helping to style hair. To top it off, the air-cushioned pad goes easy on the scalp. This eco-friendly option is available in three sizes.

Helpful Amazon review: “My hair looks, feels and [manages] better. Very happy with this brush. Detangles without breakage for my fine hair. Helps pull oils through and keeps the frizziness down.”

A Round Brush That's Great For Blow-Drying Fine Hair

• Also available on Walmart , $14

When it comes to blow drying fine hair, the biggest challenge lies in getting the hair to actually remain on the brush while you're styling it. But the 100% boar bristles in this round ceramic brush allow it to firmly hold onto fine hair while you blow dry, without tugging or snagging. On top of that, the vented ceramic barrel is designed to allow air from the blow dryer to circulate, helping your hair dry extra fast for some amazingly voluminous results. Finally, it comes in three barrel sizes, so you can achieve the style you’re looking for.

Helpful Amazon review: "I really like this brush. Over the years I have spent twice to three times the amount of money that this brush costs and been very disappointed in them. I have baby fine hair and this brush will grip it and hold it through your blow-dry session without losing pieces of it. [...] It is also a sturdy brush that will last and it helps to speed up the drying time.”

A Boar Bristle Brush For Less Than $10

• Also available on Walmart , $11

If you don’t want to spend too much on a boar bristle brush, this Diane one is a super great deal, boasting a 4.4-star rating on Amazon overall, from more than 6,000 reviews. Best of all, it’ll cost you less than $10. The brush comes in a range of different styles intended for different types of hair, but this soft bristle version is meant for fine to medium tresses. It features 100% boar bristles and an ergonomically-shaped wooden handle that’s comfortable to hold.

Helpful Amazon review: “My hair is baby fine hair easily break with even regular brush, so I don't brush my hair much. Boy, this one is so soft that I can brush my hair without any pulling or breakage. I really love using it, make my hair shinny too. Great find with such inexpensive price. Brush is very light, easy to wash, and right size for me. I love it.”

A Static-Fighting Cushion Brush That's Perfect For Long, Fine Hair

• Also available on Sally Beauty , $27

With more than 14,000 reviews on Amazon and a 4.6-star rating, this Denman cushion brush with nylon bristles is a popular styling tool for people of all hair types, but it also works well on fine hair because its soft rubber base and flexible bristles won't pull on hair. Instead, this static-fighting brush is like a gentle massage for your scalp, and helps shape and smooth out long hair.

Helpful Amazon review: "This is perfect for my ultra fine hair! [...] This brush smooths out a lot of the fly-aways and shapes my hair nicely. Feels like great quality - never tried this brand before, but will definitely be purchasing more!”

The Stylist’s Pick That’s Worth The Splurge

• Also available on Walmart , $62

If Martinez were to pick one brush to use on especially fine hair, “it would be the YS Park Luster Wood Styler .” Yes, this Japanese-made brush is a splurge, but according to this stylist, it’s worth it: “A bit stronger than others, which also makes it great for styling with heat, but still gentle enough to be used on fine hair.” It has a combination of boar and nylon bristles, and it’s heat-resistant for use alongside your blow dryer. The cushion helps to reduce static and ease your scalp, while the ergonomic handle is “[definitely] a plus, too.”

One reviewer wrote : “A friend recommended it because I'm trying to grow my hair and need to brush it more frequently. I really like it so far. It brushes through tangles easily and is also very easy to clean!”

Jordi Martinez , stylist at FEKKAI SoHo

This article was originally published on Sep. 8, 2017

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

13 Best Boar-Bristle Brushes for Softer, Smoother Strands

By Jennifer Hussein and Sarah Madaus

A variety of brushes — round, vented, paddle , etc. — have likely called your vanity home, but nothing comes close to the best boar-bristle brushes and their exceptional smoothing and shine-enhancing abilities. They've long held a special spot in hairstylists' and editors' hair-care routines for their high-quality, gentle bristles that create tension and detangle strands without damaging hair. Whether you're looking for natural bristles or a vegan nylon brush option, we found and tested the best boar-bristle brushes for a variety of hair-care needs and concerns.

Our Top Picks:

• Best Overall: Crown Affair The Brush No. 003 , $74
• Best for Longer Hair: Leonor Greyl Natural Boar Bristle Brush , $59
• Best Under-$50 Brush: Dae Detangle + Style Brush , $24
• Best Nylon Bristle Brush: Briogeo Vegan Boar Bristle Hair Brush , $26
• Best for Scalp: Sisley-Paris Hair Rituel The Radiance Brush , $95
• Best for Fine Hair: Prose Boar Bristle Brush , $72
• Best Luxury: Oribe Italian Resin Flat Brush , $100

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are boar bristle brushes considered the best type of hair brush.

• How do I clean a boar bristle hair brush?

How we test and review products

Our staff and testers, best overall: crown affair the brush no. 003.

Crown Affair

Crown Affair The Brush No. 003

Why It's Worth It: Smooth frizzy hair from root to tip with Crown Affair's luxurious The Brush No. 003. This paddle brush is made from beechwood and real boar bristles that brush through all hair textures.

Editor Tip: The bristles stimulate the scalp, distribute natural oils and hair products, and add a final smoothing touch to all of your hairstyles.

Material: Boar bristles, beechwood | Who It's For: All hair types, especially fine hair

Best for Longer Hair: Leonor Greyl Natural Boar Bristle Brush

Leonor Greyl

Leonor Greyl Natural Boar Bristle Brush

Neiman Marcus

Why It's Worth It: For those searching for a mid-level price point, Leonor Greyl Natural Boar Bristle Brush is one that's stylish and under $100. It beautifully detangles hair while leaving the lengths smooth and shiny for an overall healthy finish. Anyone with medium to long hair knows this is key to achieving an effortless style that’s sure to turn heads.

Editor Tip: Instead of brushing from the top of your hair to the ends, the brand encourages starting from the bottom and slowly working your way up to reduce breakage.

Material: Boar bristle | Who It's For: All hair types, especially long hair

Best Under-$50 Brush: Dae Detangle + Style Brush

Dae Vegan Detangle + Style Brush

Why It's Worth It: Allure commerce writer Jennifer Hussein says the Dae Detangle + Style Brush is essential in her hair-care routine for its synthetic boar-mimicking bristles that can be used on dry and wet hair. Plus, the ballpoint tips provide a gentle, relaxing scalp massage. "When I'm going for a straighter hairstyle, I always have this brush by my side," she says.

Editor Tip: This one makes detangling a breeze for even the thickest hair. “It's so gentle on my thick strands and brushes out knots without pulling out any hair in the process,” says Hussein.

Material: Nylon | Who It's For: Medium to thick hair

More boar bristle brushes we love:

Best nylon bristle brush: briogeo vegan boar bristle hair brush.

Briogeo Vegan Boar Bristle Hair Brush

Ulta Beauty

Why It's Worth It: Sure, grabbing a faux-boar-bristle brush is more cost-effective, but there are few that measure up to the quality of a real one. Along with Dae's, which we just mentioned above, the Briogeo Vegan Boar Bristle Hair Brush is another Allure editor-favorite for anyone who wants an effective detangling brush with vegan, nylon-based bristles. Its bristles mimic the look and feel of actual boar bristles while providing the same shine-boosting effects without any animal byproduct or high price tags.

Editor Tip: This brush is also accented with nylon ball-tipped pins to glide through knots without damaging or pulling on strands.

Material: Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, rubber, nylon | Who It's For: All hair types

Best for Scalp: Sisley-Paris Hair Rituel The Radiance Brush

Sisley Paris

Sisley Paris Hair Rituel The Radiance Brush

Saks Fifth Avenue

Bluemercury

Why It's Worth It: Smooth, soften, and boost shine all at once with Sisley-Paris's Hair Rituel The Radiance Brush. This particular brush features a combination of luxe, tangle-reducing boar bristles and sturdy ballpoint pins. The former gently glides through hair and breaks up knots while the latter gently massages and stimulates the scalp, brushing away buildup and flakes in the process.

Editor Tip: Boar-bristle brushes are known for their ability to evenly distribute excess oil, therefore making hair look less greasy. With that being said, if you've skipped a few wash days and have an especially oily feel to your hair, try spritzing one of our favorite dry shampoos first and brushing its formula through for a matter, oil-free finish.

Material: Boar bristles, nylon | Who It's For: All hair types

Best for Fine Hair: Prose Boar Bristle Brush

Prose Boar Bristle Brush

Why It's Worth It: The beauty of Prose's Boar Bristle Brush is that it's totally customizable — no wonder it won an Allure Best of Beauty Award in 2022. This pure boar bristle brush is especially great for fine hair types, thanks to its soft bristles that redistribute oil to minimize greasiness and boost shine.

Editor Tip: Medium-to-thick hair types should grab the Boar & Nylon Bristle version, which, as you can expect, features a mix of pure boar bristles and synthetic nylon pins for their detangling and scalp-massaging abilities.

Material: Boar bristles | Who It's For: Fine or thin hair

Best Luxury: Oribe Italian Resin Flat Brush

Oribe Italian Resin Flat Brush

Why It's Worth It: There's something about using a substantial, beautiful hair tool that makes you feel like a woman in Victorian England brushing her hair at her vanity. This Best of Beauty award-winning brush from Oribe is a sensorial delight; it's heavy in your hands, comfortable to grip, and feels like a treat to the scalp. The boar bristles smooth all hair types for swept-up styles or slicked-back buns.

Editor Tip: P.S. Los Angeles-based hairstylist Lisa Erin highly recommends Oribe's Medium Round Brush . "The build on this brush is phenomenal with the balance in weight between the handle and the bristles," she explains. "If you take care of it, it will take care of your hair." Creating a full, shiny blown-out 'do has never been so easy.

Material: boar bristles, nylon pins | Who It's For: All hair types

Best for Sensitive Scalps: Mason Pearson Sensitive Boar Bristle Hairbrush

Mason Pearson

Mason Pearson Sensitive Boar Bristle Hairbrush

Why It's Worth It: Mason Pearson's Sensitive Boar Bristle Hairbrush is a classic boar bristle brush that has been the go-to for hairstylists for years. It's a steep investment but will last you for a long time if you take care of it.

Editor Tip: The rubber cushion pad offers some give for a comfortable and gentle brushing experience, particularly for those with thin hair or sensitive scalps.

Material: Boar bristles | Who It's For: All hair types, especially thin hair

Best for Styling: Black Egg Boar Bristle Brush

Black Egg Boar Bristle Brush

Why It's Worth It: Hairstylist Darrius Peace , who is based in Birmingham, Alabama, can't help but rave about the affordable Black Egg Boar Bristle Brush, which has a comfortable wooden handle and is packed with bristles. "I love this brush because of the versatility that it creates for styling hair," he says. Pull it out next time you're giving yourself a blowout and you'll believe him.

Editor Tip: Peace says it's great for all styling purposes, from adding "finesse" to low-brush cuts to polishing off sleek updos. "These tightly bristled brushes are excellent for all hair types and lengths," he adds.

Material: Hog bristles, beechwood | Who It's For: All hair types

Best for Shine: Denman D81M Style & Shine Hairbrush

Denman D81M Style & Shine Hairbrush

Why It's Worth It: As its name suggests, the iconic Denman D81M Style & Shine Hairbrush is basically a one-way ticket to smooth, tangle-free, and shiny hair no matter what your curl type may be.

Editor Tip: It's not magic — the strand-smoothing powers of synthetic and natural boar bristles work together to effortlessly untangle knots, boost shine, and soften each strand.

Material: Multiple bristle options (boar bristle, plastic) | Who It's For: All hair types, including curly hair

Best Double-Sided Brush: Pattern Beauty Double-Sided Bristle Brush

Pattern Beauty

Pattern Beauty Double-Sided Bristle Brush

Why It's Worth It: When you grab the Pattern Beauty Double-Sided Bristle Brush, you're basically getting two brushes for the price of one — we'll sign up for that. This tool features two types of brush bristles: a soft nylon-tufted side for slicking back flyaways and boar hair bristles for smoothing tighter updos.

Editor Tip: If you find yourself experimenting with a lot of updos, it's one of the best brushes for styling 'em (and sleek hairstyles, too), no matter your hair type. (However, it was made with coily and curly hair in mind.)

Material: Nylon (soft side), boar bristles (stiff side) | Who It's For: All hair types, especially coily and curly hair

Ceramic and Ionic: Olivia Garden Ceramic Ion Supreme Brush

Olivia Garden

Olivia Garden Ceramic Ion Supreme Brush

Why It's Worth It: Smalley loves the quality of Olivia Garden brushes — especially the Ceramic Ion Supreme Brush. The smoothing effect of its boar bristles is enhanced by tourmaline-based ion technology. Plus, the cushioned base makes it super comfortable to use.

Editor Tip: All of Olivia Garden's brushes are built for professionals and regular consumers alike, so you can expect salon-level quality with this brush. We love that it includes a retractable sectioning pick in the ergonomic handle to create straight parts.

Material: Boar bristles, ceramic and nylon pins | Who It's For: All hair types

Best Travel-Size Brush: Drybar The Mini Flat Mate Boar Bristle Travel Brush

Drybar The Mini Flat Mate Boar Bristle Travel Brush

Why It's Worth It: Don't settle for pocket-sized plastic travel brushes if you don't have to, folks. This mini boar bristle brush from Drybar ensures that you can fit an extra outfit in your carry-on without sacrificing healthy and happy hair. It revives second-day hair, adding shine and volume, and aids in styling.

Editor Tip: This one is best for dry hair, so once you hop out of the shower, opt for a comb.

Material: Boar bristles, nylon | Who It's For: Fine, medium, and thick hair

We believe multiple brushes have a time and place in your hair-care routine, but the beauty of boar-bristle brushes is that they're beneficial for fine strands, coarse hair, and just about everything in between. "Boar-bristle brushes are great because their soft bristles glide through hair, leading to less hair breakage during styling," hairstylist Kim Kimble explains. "They are also great for massaging the scalp and promoting blood flow, which is important for healthy hair." Hello, relaxation.

Need even more convincing? Fort Lauderdale-based stylist Olivia Smalley says boar-bristle brushes won't cause any annoying static, split ends, or frizz — and they can even exfoliate. "As the boar bristles come in contact with your hair, they are actually brushing out the dead cells from your scalp and getting rid of product buildup and dust," she tells Allure .

How do I clean a boar-bristle hairbrush?

Cleaning your boar-bristle brush is very similar to cleaning the rest of your hairbrushes, which we have a full guide on. Not sure how to make your brushes squeaky clean in the first place? TL;DR:

• Only use soap and warm water on all bristles. Wooden paddles and handles can be wiped down with a bit of rubbing alcohol.
• If your brush is moderately gunky, try soaking it in hot water and disinfectant soap to loosen up and remove buildup.
• After washing, use a fine-tooth comb to pick out excess hair and buildup. "Take a comb in your dominant hand while holding your brush in the other," Tukia Allen , hairstylist and educator coach at Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Atlanta, previously told Allure . “Proceed to place the comb across the brush like the small letter "t" and stroke down the brush."

The only caveat we'd like to add is, since boar bristles tend to be prone to fallout, be extra gentle when washing them.

We always enlist a range of testers for any review, but hair-care products and tools are another story. While some can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and concerns, many are created with specific consumers and their needs in mind. When reviewing tools, we also take into account testers’ experience levels. For instance, an innovative new blow-dryer may feature industry-leading technology, but if the only people who find it intuitive to use are professional hairstylists, we have to consider this when determining whether it is worthy of a recommendation.

For our review of the best boar-bristle brushes, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and hairstylists with a wide range of hair types, concerns, and desired outcomes. Testers considered performance across three primary categories: efficacy, safety and ease of use, and value. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page .

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors — in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon — is essential to reaching that goal.

After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the “best” for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

Find more Allure staff-approved hair-care products:

• 17 Best Detangler Sprays for Knot-Free Hair
• 15 Best Air-Dry Creams to Perfect Your Heatless Styles
• 15 Best Dandruff Shampoos for Intensive Flake & Itch Reduction
• These Creams Are the Way to Pillowy-Soft, Defined Curls

Now, watch Sabrina Carpenter try 9 things she's never done before:

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By Jennifer Hussein

By Sarah Han

The 32 Best Hair Brushes for Every Hair Type

Because not all hair brushes are created equal.

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When we were young, any kind of detangling tool for our hair fell into, at most, two categories: brushes and combs. Both were my mortal enemies as a child, as my mom desperately tried to undo  the mass of knots  that is my hair's natural state. But one day I woke up and suddenly found that the list of two tools  had expanded overnight  to:  round brushes, wet brushes, paddle brushes, wide-toothed combs, boar-bristle brushes... But  no one ever explained  what each one did, or if I needed all of them. So I'm here to walk you through the secret language of hair brushes.

The kind of brush you should use depends on your hair type and preferred styling.  What you use when your hair is wet and freshly washed isn't the same as the brush you use when it's styling time. Brushing your hair does more than you might think, too:  Along with detangling, brushes can energize the scalp and help evenly distribute oils so you can have a healthy head of hair.  With the brush market so heavily saturated right now, picking the perfect one for your hair goals can be difficult. For all price points, hair types, and styles, use this hair brush guide to figure out which tool needs a spot on your vanity.

Before getting into the anatomy of brushes, a quick word on combs.  The spacing between each tooth will tell you what kind of hair the comb is best for.  For curly-haired ladies who don't brush their hair outside of the shower, wide-tooth combs (with larger spaces between each tooth) are great options, because they detangle without breaking up the natural curl pattern. If you have fine hair, combs with less space between each tooth works well. Combs with a spike on one end and very little space between each tooth are great for running alongside a flat-iron for super-sleek hair, or for sectioning hair before a blowout.

Try These Multi-Use Combs

Detangling Brushes

The word "detangling" might transport you into a youthful memory of being violently attacked by a hairbrush (is that just me?) but, truth be told, most brushes are technically detangling brushes. However, brushes that are branded as "detangling brushes" actually serve a unique purpose.  Hair is fragile, and ripping, tearing, and breaking are all harmful practices that occur when we brush our hair too aggressively or with the wrong style of brush.  This is especially true when hair is wet and at its most delicate.

Detangling brushes are most often specifically designed to be gentle enough to use on wet hair, though they can be used on dry hair as well if your hair isn't super thick. This is a great staple for most women to own, unless they have curl patterns that don't react well to any kind of brushing. If your hair is prone to tangles and a comb won't cut it, bring a detangling brush into the shower with you to eliminate any knots and work product through your hair evenly.

Shop These Detangling Brushes

Paddle Brushes

Paddle brushes are the wilder, more specialized sisters of detangling brushes.  They work best on women with long, thick hair , since they're often too large and unwieldy on short or thin hair. Most paddle brushes are designed for dry hair, as a daily detangler and smoother (picture: That scene from  Tangled  where Rapunzel spends an hour brushing her hair on the floor).

For women with straight to wavy hair who aren't looking for complex styling, paddle brushes can also be used to blow-dry hair straight. They're also super effective post heat-styling to brush out curling-wand curls or to keep a blow-out looking natural, so we don't end up with  meme-able  hair.

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Try the Best Paddle Brushes

Round Brushes

Round brushes may be the most elusive brushes of all time. Yes, we see them a lot and understand that we should probably own one, but there are so many variations that seem to remain mysterious. A quick rundown: Round brushes are perfect for creating that  voluminous, classic wavy blowout  that we all hope to run into an ex with. However, there are so many different sizes of round brush, with different types of bristles, and those two details will determine exactly what your style looks like.

This is a general rule:  the smaller the barrel of a round brush, the more curly or wavy your hair will be after blow-drying.  This is because you hair can wrap around the brush more times, therefore giving more of a wave. The exception to this rule is for pixie cuts or bangs, where small-barrel round brushes should be used to effectively style. Larger barrel round brushes are better for created a sleek blowout, and a medium barrel is most commonly used for that classic wavy blowout. Of course, this is all dependent on your length of hair. A medium-barrel brush on chin-length hair will produce a sleeker look, because the hair doesn't have the length to wrap around the brush as well as long hair would.

Boar bristle brushes for a long time have been considered to be the most effective and healthy type of bristle for hair maintenance.  They're gentler than most other bristles, so for ladies who suffer from breakage or shedding, it might be worth investing in a brush that is either entirely boar-bristle, or a mixture of boar-bristle and another material. If your hair is pretty easy to maintain, go forth with whichever brush lets you achieve all your hair goals.

Shop These Round Brushes

Tatjana Freund is a Beauty Commerce Writer, covering makeup, skincare, and haircare products and trends. She's a fan of vodka tonics and creepy Wikipedia pages.

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• Hair Products And Tools

The 23 Best Brushes for Soft, Knot-Free Hair

With picks for every hair type and length.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• What to Look For
• Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie / Lecia Landis

While some people can get by with just a comb , brushes are crucial for anyone with long, thick hair. But as hairstylist Kat Savano notes, they're not all created equal. Your hair type and desired style will determine what kind of hairbrush you need. As a rule of thumb, she explains, the more bristles a brush has, the more control (aka tension) you get. The fewer bristles, the more airflow you get, so less control but a faster blowout . There are also other considerations to be made, like the type of brush and the type of bristles. (More on that later.)

With so many options to choose from, we conducted hours of research on the best hairbrushes, evaluating each on design, bristle type, and brush shape. We also considered if the brush can be used on wet, dry hair, or both, and also, the different hair types each brush is best suited for. After consulting with a few hairstylists, we landed on the following best in show.

Best Overall

Fromm the intuition brush.

Bristle formation distributes oils and massages scalp

Real boar bristles

Leaves hair shiny

Not ideal for very thick hair

Hair Type: Straight, wavy, curly, fine, medium | Bristle Material: Boar | Shape: Paddle | Wet or Dry: Both

Fromm's Intuition Glossar Brush checks both the boxes our experts recommend: boar bristles and a strong handle. The natural fibers are positioned in a porcupine-style formation to help distribute the oils produced by your scalp while loosening up debris. This brush also has longer pins throughout that work to massage your scalp. A cushioned base minimizes tugging while you pull it through your hair, and the wide paddle gives you more coverage with each stroke.

Best Budget

Conair velvet touch hair brush.

Eliminates knots without pain

Doesn’t pick up a lot of strands

Lightweight feel

Somewhat small

Hair Type: All | Bristle Material: Plastic | Shape: Oval | Wet or Dry: Both

For those on a budget, we recommend Conair's Velvet Touch Brush. This lightweight brush received nothing but praise from our home tester, who said it gets knots out without unnecessary tugging. It doesn't pick up a lot of strands, which one might think is a bad thing, however, given that this brush is smaller, we think it's a good choice for anyone who wants to give different areas of their hair individualized attention (which can be important when trying to untangle knots). Also nice: Due to its plastic construction, it works on both wet and dry hair.

Best Splurge

Leonor greyl natural boar bristle brush.

Stylist-recommended

Hair Type: Straight, wavy, fine, thick | Bristle Material: Boar | Shape: Flat oval | Wet or Dry: Dry

"For brushing dry hair and advancing natural oils down the hair strand, I like a flat brush like the Leonor Greyl Natural Boar Bristle Brush," says Savano. Because of how well it distributes oils, it leaves hair super shiny. It's got boar bristles (so it should only be used on dry hair) and it's ideal for folks with straight, wavy, fine, or thick hair. Oh, and it looks luxe on any vanity.

Best Paddle

T3 smooth paddle brush.

Heat-resistant bristles

Easy to grip

Might be too big for those with short hair

Hair Type: All | Bristle Material: Nylon | Shape: Paddle | Wet or Dry: Both

Designed to work with all hair types, T3's take on the paddle brush has a broad base, a cushioned body, and heat-resistant bristles that gently detangle and smooth wet or dry hair. The soft, non-slip handle also provides a nice grip. It's worth noting that because it has such a large body, it might be too big for those with short hair.

It's a 10 Haircare Miracle Round Brush

Tourmaline barrel

Aerated holes

Not ideal for dry hair

Hair Type: Straight, wavy, curly | Bristle Material: Nylon, boar | Shape: Round | Wet or Dry: Wet

This brush comes in five different sizes and has aerating holes at the top of the brush as well as throughout the barrel. The core of the brush is a tourmaline metal, which heats up and acts almost like a hot iron, which can be helpful when styling hair. It's also lightweight by round brush standards, offering a comfortable fit in your hand.

Best for Thick Hair

Denman d4 original styler 9 row brush.

Extra-long pins

Separates wet hair

Slick handle

Hair Type: Thick, long | Bristle Material: Nylon | Shape: Curved rectangular | Wet or Dry: Both

Thick hair? The Denman D4 has your name on it. Featuring nine rows of extra-long nylon pins on a long, lightweight, rounded base, this brush effortlessly separates, shapes, and defines even the thickest hair. This is a super sleek pick, which you'll no doubt want to proudly display on your nightstand or vanity.

Best for Curly Hair

Rizos curls pink detangling flexi brush for curly hair.

 Amazon

Unique design

Minimizes tugging

Hair Type: Curly, coily, wavy | Bristle Material: Plastic | Shape: Pronged | Wet or Dry: Wet

The Flexi Brush was designed specifically for curly hair . It's lightweight, gliding through your knots without pulling on your roots and causing unnecessary fallout. What's more, the non-slip rubber handle gives you a solid grip while you work out the tangles.

Best for Type 4 Hair

Felicia leatherwood detangler brush.

Flexible bristles

Designed specifically for curly hair

Uncomfortable handle

Hair Type: Coily, curly, textured, wavy, medium, thick | Bristle Material: Plastic | Shape: Rectangular | Wet or Dry: Wet

If you're working with coily hair , this lightweight detangler brush might be your best bet. The flexible bristles are placed in wide rows to help them glide through wet hair without tugging at your scalp or causing tension and breakage. Our only gripe is that the handle isn't the most comfortable.

Best for Extensions

Drybar super lemon drop detangling brush.

Gentle on hair extensions

Hair Type: All | Bristle Material: Nylon | Shape: Oval | Wet or Dry: Both

We'll let you in on a little secret: Drybar makes the best brush for hair extensions . Featuring flexible bristles and a soft cushioned base, the Super Lemon Drop is designed to gently detangle wet or dry hair with minimal tugging. It's somewhat small, so those with lots of hair might be brushing for a while, but those who want to be extra careful with their extensions might enjoy how petite it is.

Best for All Hair Types

Briogeo vegan boar bristle hair brush.

Massages scalp

Eco-friendly packaging

Works on wet or dry hair of all types

Tricky to clean

We love this pretty lilac brush from Briogeo, which features vegan bristles with soft ballpoint tips to detangle all hair types, wet or dry. It provides the same smoothing benefits boar-style brushes have while remaining cruelty-free. The tips work to gently massage the scalp and detangle every strand they come in contact with, regardless of hair type and texture.

Best for Dry Hair

The hair edit finish & shine boar bristle brush.

Not ideal for wet hair

Hair Type: All | Bristle Material: Boar, nylon | Shape: Oval | Wet or Dry: Dry

This blush-pink brush by The Hair Edit was designed for dry hair. Featuring real boar bristles and ball-tipped nylon pins, it helps distribute your hair's natural oils, tames flyaways, and enhances shine, while giving you a nice scalp massage.

Best for Wet Hair

Wet brush original detangler.

Can be used in the shower

Easy to clean

The plastic bristles aren't the highest quality

Hair Type: All | Bristle Material: Plastic | Shape: Oval | Wet or Dry: Formulated specifically for wet hair, but can be used on dry strands, too

When you step out of the shower (or are in the middle of one), reach for the Wet Brush. This clever and lightweight detangler works to gently remove knots and separate your hair without tugging at your roots or causing hair breakage . It works wonderfully with hair masks and other deep conditioners while being super easy to clean afterward.

Best In-Shower

Pattern by tracee ellis ross shower brush.

Defines natural curl pattern

Can be used with hair masks and conditioning treatments

Not very durable

Hair Type: Curly, wavy, textured, thick | Bristle Material: Plastic | Shape: Curved rectangular | Wet or Dry: Wet

Pattern's Shower Brush has long, comb-like bristles that effortlessly separate and detangle your wet hair while defining your natural curl pattern. The comfy handle also has a hole on the end so you can hang it up next to your loofah. Byrdie editor Olivia Hancock shares that this brush makes detangling her thick, long curls a pain-free process. "The well-made bristles allow the brush to gently and effectively work through even the toughest tangles in my hair," she says. "The brush also does an excellent job of clumping curls, which helps me achieve incredible definition."

Best Detangler

Tangle teezer original detangling brush.

Not ideal for curly hair

Hair Type: Medium, straight, wavy | Bristle Material: Nylon | Shape: Contoured | Wet or Dry: Both

The Tangle Teezer earned a 4.8 out of 5 overall score from our tester, who said it passed through her knots without tugging and enhanced her hair's natural shine. She also liked the lightweight, comfy hold and easy-to-clean design. For more on her experience with the brush, check out the full review .

Byrdie / Sarah Wu

Best for Blow-Drying

Olivia garden ceramic + ion thermal hairbrush.

Ceramic barrel with aerated holes

Eight sizes

Bristles can be scratchy against skin and clothing

Hair Type: All | Bristle Material: Nylon | Shape: Round | Wet or Dry: Wet

Savano recommends a ceramic barrel when blow-drying, like this thermal option from Olivia Garden. Available in eight sizes, it has sturdy bristles (which, admittedly, can be scratchy against skin and clothes), large holes for maximum airflow, a retractable sectioning pick, and an ergonomic handle.

Best Multi-Purpose

Kitsch kitsch dual edge brush and comb.

Works as edge brush and for grooming brows and lashes

Lightweight

Compact size

Not as sturdy as some other products

Hair Type: All | Bristle Material: Nylon | Shape: Rectangular | Wet or Dry: Either

This two-for-one product offers a brush on one side and a comb on the other, so it's kind of the best of both worlds. Use the comb to lay baby hairs and edges (or groom brows and lashes) or create a part and sweep through with the brush to smooth flyaways.

Best for Medium-Length Hair

Mason pearson mason pearson handy bristle hair brush for medium length hair.

Mason Pearson

Well-made and luxurious

Easy to maneuver

Comfortable

Bristles can be sharp at first

Hair Type: Mid-length and fine hair | Bristle Material: Boar | Shape: Oval | Wet or Dry: Either

This luxurious brush tames frizz and flyaways with six rings of stiff boar bristle tufts. We love the long handle, which allows the user to brush to great lengths (literally). And while it's expensive, it will likely stand the test of time, thanks in part to the cleaning brush that comes with it and helps you keep your hairbrush in the best possible condition.

Read Full Review : The Mason Pearson Pocket Bristle & Nylon Hairbrush BN4 Feels Like a Mini Massage

Best for Thin Hair

Crown affair the brush no. 001.

Great for fine or thinning hair

Glides through hair without tugging or breaking

Volumizes as it brushes

Might not be ideal for thick hair

Hair Type: All, but best for thin | Bristle Material: Nylon and boar | Shape: Oval | Wet or Dry: Either

All hair types will benefit from this boar- and nylon-bristled brush, but commerce writer Caitlyn Martyn says it's exceptional for those with thin hair who need volume. "I've tried so many brushes and this is the one I keep coming back to," she explains. "It's gentle on my fine strands—so it won't cause breakage— and it effectively detangles and volumizes my waves." It's something of an investment, but as Caitlyn points out, it's a solid choice for those in need of something that won't be too hard on their head or hair.

Aveda Wooden Paddle Brush

Lightweight and easy to hold

Scalp-stimulating bristles

Natural design and aesthetic

Bristle tips may fall off over time

Hair Type: All | Bristle Material: Nylon | Shape: Paddle | Wet or Dry: Either

If you like the look and feel of a wooden brush, this one from Aveda has your name on it. Suitable for all hair types, it's lightweight and easy to hold with a large paddle and scalp-stimulating bristles that work to detangle hair, wet or dry.

Best Ceramic

Moroccanoil ceramic paddle brush.

Speeds drying time

Helps smooth flyaways

Prevents heat damage

Bristles may warp under high heat

If you need something for at-home blowouts, go with the Moroccanoil Paddle Brush. Like many hair dryers and flat irons, the paddle and handle are made of ceramic to help speed up drying time, prevent damage, smooth flyaways, and leave you with super-sleek locks. Just a heads up, medium blow-drying heat is best, as the nylon bristles might warp if they get too hot.

What to Look For in a Hairbrush

• Hair Type: When shopping for a brush, be sure to keep hair type in mind. Thin hair can benefit from a boar bristle brush, which helps ensure hair doesn't snag or frizz. Curly hairand thicker hair types will also appreciate boar bristles, which are more flexible than synthetic and therefore avoid tugging on the hair. Those with damaged hair should also look for bristles that are soft, which will help avoid further damage.
• Shape, size, and design: When it comes to shopping for hairbrushes, hairstylist and salon owner Anthony Nader recommends first making sure the brush shape will fit your specific hair needs. “If you want to achieve more volume, aim for using a medium to large round brush,” he says. However, if you’re looking to achieve a quick and effortless blowout with minimal drying time, he recommends investing in a large, flat cushioned paddle brush. “The larger the brush, the more area you can cover in a shorter amount of time,” he says. Size also matters: Bigger paddles and longer arms will ensure more coverage and comfortability when brushing long hair. On the other hand, smaller styles will be better for those with short hair (or those who are looking for a tool to use on the go).
• Bristles: When it comes to bristle material, Nader is a big fan of brushes made of boar hair. “These are soft, so your strands will glide through them with ease,” he says. “They help reduce the amount of tugging on strands, which can cause hair breakage, and they're fab for promoting blood flow which is beneficial for natural hair growth .” Nylon can also be effective and some tools mix both nylon with boar. Plastic is good, too, though it won't hold up as well and can cause added friction to strands.

When it comes to brushing, Nader’s rule is never to brush more than twice a day. “Any more than that, and you’re asking for trouble,” he says. He explains that over-brushing causes the sebaceous glands in the scalp to work overtime, leading to oily roots and the need to wash hair more frequently.

Experts recommend that hairbrushes be replaced every six months and cleaned at least once a month. To clean a brush, mix a clarifying shampoo with water and baking soda, and allow the brush to soak in the mixture for 30 minutes.

According to Nader, cleaning your hairbrush shouldn’t be a complicated process. “I just mix warm water with clarifying shampoo and let the brushes soak for an hour; that way, all the buildup can disappear," he says. "Then, I rinse them in cool water and lay them out in the sun to dry.”

Theresa Holland is a freelance commerce writer covering haircare, skincare, and makeup at Byrdie. She interviewed two experts for this story, compiling their product recs and insight into the best materials and designs:

• Anthony Nader is a celebrity hairstylist and the salon owner of Raw Anthony Nader in Sydney, Australia.
• Kat Savano is a hairstylist based in the California Bay Area.

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12 Effective Shampoos for Straight Hair that Add Body and Shine

Vacation beauty: the best hair brush for travel.

The ultimate multitasking brush.

Welcome to holiday travel season! We do love a good vacation when we can get them. This means that it’s high time to pack up of our hair care products and tools and figure out which ones will hold up during our travels. When it comes to packing hair supplies you already know your essentials, but often we’re asked, “what is the best hair brush for travel?” You may have multiple brushes you use at home for styling, detangling, and more but it seems like overkill to pack more than one, especially with limited luggage space. In a nutshell? The best hair brush for travel should be able to do it all.

Read on to see what the best hair brush for travel should do:

The Best Hair Brush For Travel: Meet The Paddle Brush

1. The best brush for all hair types

When it boils down to it, the best all-rounder hair brush for all hair types and lengths is the paddle brush . We do like to recommend many different brushes for different hair types , but no one can go wrong with a paddle brush! Right now we’re into the Nexxus Ibiza Cx2 Paddle Hair Brush : Because it is large and has pins that are evenly spaced, this brush type works well for both detangling and styling.

2. Styling with a paddle brush

Because of the size of the brush and its widely spaced pins, a paddle brush is ideal for styling. You can totally use for your at-home blowout  and use it to help you style your hair into sleek looks. Plus, the springy base of the brush makes it super comfortable when brushing near the scalp. Use the paddle brush, and just keep in mind that you need to be gentle. It’s better for the brush, and more importantly, it’s better for your hair.

3. Why size doesn’t always matter for travel

When searching for the best hair brush for travel, many sources will tell you to try and find a more compact or smaller-sized brush, or a brush with a folding handle. We agree that small brushes are needed if you’re going hiking or backpacking, but for your average traveler, fitting in one standard sized hairbrush into your carry on shouldn’t be an issue. We think it’s more important to have a full-sized overachiever of a brush that helps you get the hair you want than to save two inches of space in your suitcase.

4. Which hairbrushes to avoid for travel

When you are traveling, even for a short period of time you need a brush that can do it all. Brushes that are uni-taskers aren’t the smartest for traveling. As much as you may love your teasing brush or your fine-toothed comb for getting precise styles, neither will help detangle your hair or make blow-drying easy and effective. First choose a brush that can help you with your daily hair needs, then see if you have space in your case to toss in another one (or two!) for extra styling help.

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• Hair Products & Tools

The 19 Best Hair Brushes for Smooth, Soft, and Tangle-Free Styles

From shower detangling to blowout styling, we found brushes for every purpose, style, and budget.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

What to Keep in Mind

Your questions, answered, why shop with us.

InStyle / Alli Waataja

Purchasing a hair brush isn’t something we always put that much thought into, but not all hair brushes are created equal. Whether you’re looking to enhance your hair health, find the perfect brush for air-drying , or finally tame those tangles, the brush you pick can make a huge difference to your comfort and hairstyle.

Hair brushes are so common, so know what you’re using the brush for and consider your hair type and thickness. “Are you looking for help to control frizz and smooth your hair? Or do you need a brush that will help create more volume?” says Gretchen Friese , a trichologist at  BosleyMD . “You don’t want to try to detangle your hair with a short bristle round brush, and a detangling brush will most likely not give you a great blowout style.” With that in mind, we’ve whittled our list down to the very best hair brushes for every hair type and need.

Best Overall

Wet brush original detangler.

Why We Love It: The appropriately named Wet Brush Detangler is THE hair brush for detangling not only wet hair, but dry hair as well, says Friese. This is also an all-time favorite for Norma Long , founder and creative director of Indulge Treatment Bar in Naples, Florida. “It easily gets through hard-to-get-out knots and doesn’t cause any breakage, maintaining healthy hair,” says Long. It also makes detangling—if not pleasurable—at least much less painful than other brushes, and even for kids. It does this with the help of Wet Brush’s proprietary IntelliFlex bristles, which are specially designed to minimize pain and damage. Just note, though, that they’re made from plastic and therefore not suitable for use while blow-drying. Other reasons to love this brush? It’s under $10, readily available online and from drugstores everywhere, and it comes in lots of cute colors, plus limited edition versions, too.

Who It’s For: Anyone despairing of their unruly, tangly hair will be obsessed with this brush’ non-painful detangling power.

Just Trust Us: If you have tape-in hair extensions , you can safely use a Wet Brush on them and expect minimal damage, says Friese.

Hair Type: All | Bristle Type : IntelliFlex nylon | Barrel Material: Plastic

Best Budget

Conair ceramic wood nylon & boar bristle cushion hair brush.

Why We Love It: Ah, who doesn’t adore drugstore mainstay, Conair? They’ve been around for decades for this very simple reason: The products just plain work, and without breaking the bank, either. This large square paddle brush is a gem for detangling wet or dry hair, even thick manes—though those with extra thick hair may prefer to use this brush for styling after detangling in the shower. Still, curly-haired customers approve of this one as well. We also love that this hair brush features a ceramic coating that leaves your hair beautifully shiny without the need for additional product.

Who It’s For: This brush is perfect for heat styling without snagging, and for leaving your hair glossy.

Just Trust Us: If detangling brushes usually snag and damage your hair, this one will make quick work of your tangles.

Hair Type: All | Bristle Type : Nylon | Barrel Material: Plastic

Best for Sensitive Scalps

Mason pearson bristle & nylon hairbrush.

Why We Love It: A Mason Pearson brush may cost quite a bit more than your average hair brush, but it’s a total classic, and hair stylists swear by it. “A Mason Pearson brush has been part of my kit for 20 years,” says Cheryl Munoz , a master stylist at Josh Wood Atelier in London and the visionary behind the hairstyles seen on the Erdem runway at London Fashion Week. “This bristle brush is great for everyday brushing, and can be used on wet hair as it’s very gentle on the hair, especially great for styling sleek ponytails . Everyone needs this brush.”

Who It’s For: Celebrity colorist Gigi Pogosyan says it’s great for distributing natural oils from your scalp to your ends, giving you an all-over healthy, shiny look. “The combination of nylon and boar bristles helps to stimulate the scalp, promote hair growth, and create a smooth, shiny finish,” says Pogosyan. “While it is a more expensive option, the durability and performance of the Mason Pearson brush make it a worthwhile investment for those looking for a long-lasting hair tool.”

Just Trust Us: If you fall just as in love with this brush as we think you will, you can also invest in one in a pocket size to carry around in your handbag, says Munoz.

Hair Type: All | Bristle Type : Boar, nylon | Barrel Material: Cellulose acetate plastic

Best Hair Brush to Prevent Breakage

Briogeo wet detangling brush.

Why We Love It: This brush looks like nothing fancy, but it packs big detangling power. It’s designed for use on wet hair of all types, and doesn’t pull uncomfortably on your strands or cause breakage thanks to the flexible bristles—even on fine or thick hair. It also features a squishy cushion for added comfort on your scalp. More generally, we love Briogeo, a Black-founded brand committed to sustainable and ethical practices. Their products are designed to beautify all hair types and textures; they work with anti-racist and other social initiatives that align with their values; and they use recycled packaging and clean ingredients wherever possible.

Who It’s For: Anyone who needs a little help detangling in the shower.

Just Trust Us: If you need a little extra slick, spray a little leave-in conditioner on your hair before using this brush. This will also help your hair look extra shiny once it dries.

Hair Type: All | Bristle Type : Nylon | Barrell Material: Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, thermoplastic rubber

Best Boar Bristle Hair Brush

Crown affair the brush no. 003.

Why We Love It: Crown Affair is famous for its amazing microfiber hair towels , but the brand’s hair brushes are equally glorious. This particular number was handcrafted in Italy from natural beechwood and ethically sourced boar bristles, which alone makes it worth the investment. You’re probably wondering about its effectiveness, though, so here goes: The No. 003 is a fan favorite for fine or thinning hair, gently detangling strands without causing breakage or frizz. It also gives your scalp a bit of a massage, which is great for hair growth , and adds shine to your hair by distributing the natural oils throughout.

Who It’s For: If you have fine but thick hair, this brush will leave your hair smooth, silk, and best of all, detangled at last.

Just Trust Us: A brush with boar bristles is perfect to use when styling your hair into a protective style, such as a ponytail , before bed. It will smooth your hair and distribute the oils to promote hair health overnight.

Hair Type: Straight, wavy | Bristle Type : Boar | Barrel Material: Beechwood

Best to Use in the Shower

Tangle teezer ultimate detangler.

Why We Love It: First off, we just have to note how freaking adorable the original Tangle Teezer hair brush is. Available in bright pastel shades like Millennial Pink and colorblocked options like Lilac Mint, the barrel is made from plastic and the bristles are patented plastic teeth, with the whole effect reminding us of our beauty kits circa 2003. But we’re not out here buying hair brushes just because they look nice: The cult British brand makes the holy grail in terms of a detangling brush that’s effective and doesn’t damage your hair or hurt your scalp in the process. Because it’s made from plastic, and because the teeth are designed specially not to damage wet hair, this one is perfect for using in the shower, or straight after the shower. Plus, it’s super easy to clean as well, since water won’t damage it. Just remember not to use it while heat-styling, since this will melt the bristles.

Who It’s For: This is the brush for you if you’re looking to detangle unruly hair in the shower (and on a daily basis), and you don’t like the detangling brushes with round bristle caps on them.

Just Trust Us: For best detangling results without damaging your hair, start brushing from the ends of your hair, then work your way up towards the scalp, advises Friese.

Hair Type: All | Bristle Type : Plastic | Barrel Material: Plastic

Best Detangling Brush

Dae vegan detangle + style brush.

Why We Love It: Suitable for all hair types and textures, this vegan boar bristle brush from Dae is incredible for detangling, without pulling or damaging your hair—whether it’s wet or dry. The bristles are also really gentle on the scalp, and feel like a massage when brushing. Plus, it helps to create volume , smooth the hair, reduce frizz, and add shine by distributing your hair’s natural oils. This brush is close to perfect, but some people have found the bristle caps can come off after a few months. Still, it’s an amazing choice for anyone looking for a brush that’s friendlier to the planet. Dae is Leaping Bunny-certified, meaning the brand is always entirely cruelty-free, and they donate a portion of proceeds from every purchase to projects bringing clean water to developing regions.

Who It’s For: This Dae hair brush is ideal for anyone who likes the idea of a boar bristle hair brush but prefers a vegan alternative and a lower price tag.

Just Trust Us: To clean your brush, start by removing any hair from it with a comb. Then, fill your sink or a bowl with warm water and your choice of shampoo, gentle dish soap, baking soda, or vinegar, and soak the brush face down in the mixture for about 10 minutes. Then, lay it face down on a towel to drain and dry.

Hair Type: All | Bristle Type : Vegan boar | Barrel Material: Plastic

Best for Blow-Drying

Drybar full pint medium round brush.

Why We Love It: Who better to make your new go-to heat-styling round brush than the iconic blow-dry bar itself? This round brush from Drybar is designed with a vented ceramic barrel, which means it’s heat-resistant and allows the air from your hair dryer to flow through the brush, maximizing your styling potential. It’s perfect for creating soft curls and waves, and Ionic Technology also helps to prevent frizz and give your hair a beautiful shine—though some people do find it creates some static. The bristles are firm, but don’t hurt or tangle your hair—even those with fine hair swear by it. Other than that, it also feels comfortable in your hand, with a grip to avoid slippage, and not too heavy, which is important since you’ll need to hold it for a while to get your desired blowout.

Who It’s For: Suitable for all hair types, this round brush makes a great addition to your hair care arsenal if you’re looking to recreate salon-worthy blowouts at home.

Just Trust Us: Boar bristles are typically super gentle on the hair, but make sure to only use them on dry hair to prevent breakage.

Hair Type: All | Bristle Type : Boar | Barrell Material: Ceramic

Best Curly Hair Brush

Denman the freeflow curl definer & styler.

Why We Love It: This is the perfect brush for curly or coily hair, according to Jane Mayhead , a trichologist at The Private Clinic in London. “One thing that’s great about this brush is that if you’ve got very thick or very curly hair , you can remove every other row of bristles in order to allow the curls to clump together, like it would when using a wide-toothed comb,” Mayhead explains. This Denman number does an incredible job of detangling the thickest, curliest of hair, creating stunning volume and curl definition. It’s also a salon quality hair brush that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, which scores it extra points as far as we’re concerned. Those who love it say it doesn’t snag or cause breakage, and that it’s super easy to clean.

Who It’s For: Those with hair types 2A through 4C will love how painless this brush is when detangling and defining.

Just Trust Us: For extra curl definition, brush a strand of hair starting from as close to the root as you can get, then twist the brush down the strand of hair—kind of like you would a curling iron.

Hair Type: Curly | Bristle Type : Nylon | Barrel Material: Rubber

Best for Wet Hair

Dyson paddle brush.

Why We Love It: You’ve heard all your friends rave about the Dyson Airwrap (or perhaps you’re that friend), but did you know the brand’s hair brushes are equally beloved? This oval paddle brush comes in some pretty cute colors, but of course that alone doesn’t justify the price. Because it’s a Dyson hair brush, it’s specifically designed to use while heat-styling up to 302 degrees, meaning it’s safe to use on wet hair, and you can expect minimal damage from doing so. It’s comfortable to hold thanks to the weighted handle, and gives your hair a beautiful, shiny finish.

Who It’s For: You’ll love this if you prefer a hair brush that feels like premium quality, and are looking for a great heat-styling brush.

Just Trust Us: While its primary function is to smooth hair while heat-styling, the paddle brush is also incredible for detangling really thick hair without damaging it.

Hair Type: Straight, wavy, curly | Bristle Type : n/a | Barrel Material: n/a

Best Hair Brush for Fine Hair

Fromm the intuition brush.

Why We Love It: It’s important to be extra gentle when brushing fine hair, because it can easily snag and break with the wrong hair brush. A boar bristle brush in general makes a great choice since these bristles are typically gentler than nylon or plastic ones. A paddle brush is great if your hair is thick as well as fine (the former referring to the amount of hair you have, the latter to individual hair thickness), or if it’s long, since it can brush more hair in one go than a regular oval brush. As for this one from Fromm specifically, it’s amazing for gently detangling fine hair (although not so much for coarse hair), without pulling, tugging, or snagging. It also doesn’t cause static and helps your hair look smoother and healthier overall.

Who It’s For: It’s ideal for taming frizz on a daily basis.

Just Trust Us: Use this one on oily hair to help distribute the oil and gain an extra day between washes.

Hair Type: Straight, wavy, curly | Bristle Type : Boar | Barrel Material: Nylon

Best Hair Brush for Thick Hair

Ghd paddle brush.

Why We Love It: Hailing from beloved heat-styling brand Ghd (formally referred to as Good Hair Day, meaning you really know what you’re getting), this paddle brush was of course designed with blow-dries in mind. It should be used on damp rather than wet hair to avoid any breakage, and will leave your hair smooth, sleek, and shiny. It’s also great for detangling thick and/or long hair and taming frizz, and won’t cause any annoying static. If you have a lot of hair volume-wise but each hair is fine, you’ll love how this brush works through your tangles without damaging your hair or hurting your scalp. People absolutely love this brush as long as it’s working well, but a big downside we have to call out is that it’s not durable: Some people find the bristles fall out and the cushion detaches after a few months to a year.

Who It’s For: Anyone blessed with a full head of thick hair prone to tangles will be obsessed with this smoothing wizard.

Just Trust Us: When you go to wash your brush, make sure to keep the metal end away from water. Then, lay the brush face down to dry on a towel, so that the cushion doesn’t fill with water, which can damage it.

Hair Type: Straight, wavy, curly | Bristle Type : Synthetic | Barrel Material: Plastic

Best Round Hair Brush

Philip b. round hairbrush.

Why We Love It: Professional hair stylists are obsessed with Philip B.’s hair brushes, and this mahogany round brush, though expensive, is a real winner. The wooden barrel is kind to your hair and helps avoid static, and the nylon and boar bristle mix works beautifully to boost hair health, and leave your hair feeling soft and looking glossy. It’s designed to give you a glamorous blowout , with no tugging or breakage, creating a smooth, bouncy hairstyle. This medium-sized round brush, with its ergonomic handle, is also really comfortable to hold—a must when you’re working hard on your blow-dry. Also, Philip B.’s brushes are made in Spain from ethically sourced materials, with sustainably sheared boar bristles and mahogany from non-endangered forests, so you can feel good about your purchase.

Who It’s For: Those with fine hair will thank this brush for not creating unwanted frizz, and for detangling without snagging.

Just Trust Us: Friese loves a hair brush that combines both nylon and boar bristles because it keeps the price slightly lower when compared to pure boar, is just as effective, and is easier to clean.

Hair Type: All | Bristle Type : Nylon and boar | Barrell Material: Mahogany

Best Hair Brush for Edge Control

Pattern by tracee ellis ross edge tool.

Why We Love It: Red-carpet regular Tracee Ellis Ross knows a little something about natural hair, and we think you’ll love her entire hair care line. Singling out this edge tool, it’s a game changer for styling your baby hairs as simply or intricately as you like. It’s double-sided, with an edge brush on one side and a mini comb on the other. The brush also comes with a protective sleeve so you can take it with you for any touch-ups you may need. Most people love that the brush perfectly toes the line between firm yet gentle bristles for great shaping without damaging your delicate baby hairs; however, some people find they are slightly too firm and can scrape the skin a little.

Who It’s For: If purchasing ethical products is a big deal to you, you’ll love that Pattern is cruelty-free, and committed to supporting organizations that empower women and people of color by donating one percent of proceeds from each purchase.

Just Trust Us: For the perfect swirls, start by applying a little edge pomade on your baby hairs. Next, brush your baby hairs straight down towards your face. Then, place a finger halfway through the length of a strand while swooping the end towards your scalp in a circular motion.

Hair Type: Curly, coily | Bristle Type : Synthetic boar | Barrel Material: BPA-free thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)

Best Paddle Brush

Denman d83 the gentle paddle.

Why We Love It: Mayhead loves the Denman paddle brush for long straight hair. Because it’s larger than your average flat brush, it can deal with a larger chunk of hair at a time, making it a definite time saver. It’s perfect for detangling and straightening your hair as you blow-dry, without pulling or damaging the hair. Thanks to the soft, bouncy cushion and ball-ended bristles, this brush feels lovely on your scalp, while the handle’s shape and texture make for a comfortable experience while you work it through your hair. While it’s great for styling damp hair, this brush is also perfectly suitable for daily brushing on dry hair. A quick note: If you have extra thick or curly hair, you can still use this brush for styling, but you may need a separate detangling brush.

Who It’s For: This Denman brush is for you if you like a little scalp massage while you style your hair.

Just Trust Us: Nylon is static-resistant, says Friese, so break this brush out if your hair starts standing of its own accord.

Best for Shine

Ys park round brush.

Why We Love It: This salon quality hair brush comes highly recommended by Munoz. “I use these brushes on almost every client,” she says. These are “great for polishing the hair, create an incredible shine, and are wooden, therefore don’t overheat and damage the hair when using the hairdryer.” Since this is a round brush, it’s specifically designed for use while blow-drying, with the smaller option perfect for creating tighter waves or curls, and the larger one ideal for soft waves or straight blowouts. Thanks to the ventilated holes in the barrel, this brush allows for faster dying, while its high-quality boar bristles work to create exceptional shine and gloss in the hair.

Who It’s For: You’ll love this brush if you want a beautiful blowout but without the unnecessary heat damage, since it’s designed to dry your hair faster than a non-ventilated round brush.

Just Trust Us: A boar bristle brush like this one is the perfect choice for smoothing your hair and distributing natural oils throughout the hair for a shiny, healthy look, says Friese.

Hair Type: Straight, wavy, curly | Bristle Type : Boar | Barrell Material: Teak wood

Best Hair Brush for Hair Growth

Manta electric scalp massager.

Why We Love It: This hair brush is really more of a scalp massager, but you won’t see us complaining. This nifty little handheld device uses magnetic pulsations to boost blood flow in your scalp, exfoliate your skin, help remove product buildup, and all-around make it so that your hair can grow faster and more healthily—not to mention it feels amazing while you’re using it. It’s designed to use while you shampoo, so is totally waterproof (hello, easy cleaning), and features two modes, one of which is meant to give you a lovely relaxing massage and the other a more invigorating experience. It’s definitely best for use on thin or straight hair, as it may cause tangles on thicker hair.

Who It’s For: This one is for those who see a shower as an opportunity for a full-blown self-care moment, and also want to stimulate hair growth.

Just Trust Us: If you have thick hair but still want to enjoy the benefits of a head-massaging brush that also promotes hair growth, you can use this tool after thoroughly detangling your hair and separating it into sections.

Hair Type: All | Bristle Type : Patented Flexguard technology | Barrell Material: Plastic

Best for Volume

Moroccanoil ceramic round brush.

Why We Love It: One of the best things about this Moroccanoil round brush is that it comes in four different sizes, meaning there’s one for every hair length and desired result. The small brush is the perfect fit for anyone with short hair or who wants to create small waves, while those with long or very long hair and who are looking to add volume will want to opt for one of the two largest sizes. This brush from trusted hair care brand Moroccanoil is thoughtfully designed with an ion-charged ceramic barrel which promotes straight-out-of-the-salon levels of shine, and will give you beautiful, bouncy, voluminous hair. Another perk is that it comes with a removable sectioning tip so that you can create even waves and neat hairstyles. Beware, though, this brush can snag if you get hair caught in the area where the barrel meets the handle—to avoid this, make sure to work a section of your hair starting an inch or so away from where the bristles end.

Who It’s For: The Moroccanoil round brush is perfect for thin, straight, or wavy hair, but not so great on especially frizzy, curly, or thick hair, because the bristles are too soft.

Just Trust Us: A great hair brush like this one can get you a long way towards the perfect blow-dry, but at the end of the day, Long says you also have to invest in an amazing blow-dryer and hair products to complement the brush’ effects.

Hair Type: All | Bristle Type : Nylon | Barrel Material: Ceramic

Best for Straightening

Olivia garden thermal hair brush.

Why We Love It: “Olivia Garden Round Brushes are my go-to brushes for straightening hair,” says Long. “They have a big selection of brushes in different sizes to accommodate a range of hair lengths and textures, and the firm bristles add shine to the hair and help with frizz and flyaways.” 

This is another brand loved by hair stylists everywhere, so you know you’re getting a hair tool with the potential to give you that fresh cut-and-blow-dry look. The ceramic-coated barrel retains heat, which allows you to style your hair faster and with longer-lasting results, plus its diamond-shaped vents promote hair flow, which reduces drying time even further. The bristles are gentle on the scalp, the brush doesn’t snag, and it comes with a built-in sectioning pick, too!

Who It’s For: Sleek, glossy, straight hair or soft waves, right this way.

Just Trust Us: This Olivia Garden hair brush is perfect for breathing new life into your curtain bangs. Just roll in the direction you want the wave to go, and blow!

Hair Type: Medium to thick | Bristle Type : Ion-charged nylon with rounded tips | Barrel Material: Ceramic coated

• Bristles vs Teeth: Hair brush bristles can be made of nylon or boar, while teeth can be made of plastic or metal. Each of these has a number of pros and cons. Meanwhile, metal or plastic teeth are typically the best choice for heavy-duty detangling without causing damage to the hair, are durable and easy to clean , and are great for sectioning and styling the hair with precision. However, these “may cause damage or breakage if used too aggressively or on wet hair, are not as gentle on the scalp as natural bristles, can create static and frizz in fine or thin hair,” says Pogosyan.
• Bristle Type: Boar bristles can be more expensive, are more difficult to clean and need to be cleaned often, and aren’t good for detangling thick or coarse hair. Still, they have a lot to recommend them: Boar bristle brushes are “naturally gentle on the hair and scalp, making them ideal for all hair types, help distribute natural oils from the scalp, resulting in shinier and healthier-looking hair, and can help reduce frizz and static in the hair,” says Pogosyan. Nylon bristles are “ideal for detangling and smoothing hair, especially for thick or coarse hair types, they’re durable and easy to clean, and can help distribute natural oils from the scalp along the hair shaft,” says Pogosyan. On the other hand, they can cause static and frizz if you have fine or thin hair, can feel harsh on the scalp, and don’t add shine to the hair.
• Material: Hair brush barrels come in different materials—including wood, aluminum, plastic, and ceramic—and this has a non-negligible bearing on how the brush works, how it feels while you hold it, how durable it is, and what you can use the brush for. “Plastic is by far the most common. These are cheap and can be safe but they can break easily,” says Mayhead. Wooden barrels can be made from sandalwood, bamboo, teak, beech, and more. “As well as being more sustainable, they’re better for your hair than plastic or metal alternatives,” says Mayhead. “Using a wooden brush over a plastic one is also less likely to cause the static that plastic ones often do.” Mayhead adds, “​​In comparison, a metal barrel such as aluminum will heat up quickly and stay hot. This can help styling of the hair but isn’t as kind on the hair because it can make hair more prone to heat damage.” Last but not least, “ceramic barrels heat up evenly and retain heat well, making them ideal for use with heat styling tools,” says Pogosyan. The expert explains that these also work to seal the cuticle, creating smooth and shiny hair, and reducing frizz and static. On the flipside, they tend to be quite fragile and can be expensive.
• Brush Shape: Hair brushes can generally be sorted into either round or flat brushes, though round brushes can sometimes be a bit more on the oval side, and flat brushes can be rounded, square, rectangular, or even triangular. With that in mind, round brushes are “ideal for creating volume and body in the hair, especially when used for blow drying, can help smooth and straighten hair when used with heat styling tools, and are great for creating curls and waves when used to wrap sections of hair around the brush,” says Pogosyan. That said, they’re not necessarily the right choice for short or layered hair, can cause tangles and snags, and aren’t suitable for detangling or for use on wet hair. As for flat brushes, these are “great for detangling and smoothing hair, especially for straight or fine hair types, can be used to create sleek and polished looks, and are suitable for brushing wet hair without causing breakage,” explains Pogosyan. However, they “may not provide as much volume or body as round brushes, and can be less effective for creating curls or waves and not as versatile for styling as round brushes.”

How often should you brush your hair?

“Generally, it is recommended to brush your hair once or twice a day to help distribute natural oils from the scalp along the hair shaft and to detangle any knots or tangles,” says Pogosyan. “However, over-brushing can lead to breakage and damage, so it's important to find a balance that works for your hair.” Knowing what your specific hair type needs is crucial, with Mayhead noting that those with coily hair may need to use a wide-tooth comb instead of a hair brush.

How do you brush your hair without damaging it?

“It’s important to avoid brushing your hair too aggressively or when it is wet, as this can cause breakage and damage,” says Pogosyan. “I recommend using a wide-tooth comb instead of a regular brush.” That said, some hair brushes are designed specially for use on wet hair—you should just be extra gentle when using these, especially if your hair is brittle.

Meanwhile, Mayhead says, “In order to brush hair without damaging it, I would advise starting at the bottom of the hair and working up, making sure the hair has good slip from a product such as a serum, conditioner, or oil.”

Can certain hair brushes damage your hair?

It’s super important to choose a hair brush that’s meant for your specific hair type and thickness. “Certain hair brushes can damage your hair if used incorrectly or if they are not suitable for your hair type,” says Pogosyan. “For example, using a brush with hard bristles on fine or fragile hair can cause breakage and damage.”

Iris Goldsztajn is a Paris-born, London-based freelance writer with 10 years of experience covering fashion, beauty, wellness and lifestyle for the likes of InStyle, British Vogue, Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, Bustle, Refinery29 and many more. As the former associate editor for Her Campus, she was responsible for all style and beauty news coverage. For this story, she researched and tested hair brushes, and spoke to hair care experts who shared their insights and recommendations: Gretchen Friese, a trichologist at BosleyMD; Jane Mayhead, a trichologist at The Private Clinic in London; Cheryl Munoz, a creative master stylist at Josh Wood Atelier; Norma Long, founder of Indulge Treatment Bar in Naples, Florida; and celebrity hair colorist Gigi Pogosyan.

Related Articles

• Hot Air Brushes

The Best Hot Air Brushes for Fine Hair

Have you ever been annoyed by the fact that you just cannot master using two hair tools on yourself at the same time? This is going to be the least of your worries if you only invest in one of the best hot air brushes for fine hair. In this review, I will give you my top picks and tell you what it is that makes them so great!

When I first heard of hot air brushes, I was skeptical of how effective they would be in styling my fine hair. It is not that my hair is too frizzy or anything, but the idea of having one tool that I would use as a blow dryer, flat iron, and curling iron was somewhat concerning. I did not believe in their ability to style hair until I actually tried one out.

Let me tell you this: If you are not someone who likes spending a lot of time on their hair or if you detest using two hair tools at the same time, this will be your game-changer. The hot air brush styles the hair quite nicely in only a few minutes. To add to that, these brushes come at a very affordable price, so you will not have to spend a fortune to get one.

Hot air brushes are the best modern solution to styling any kind of hair. They come in all shapes and sizes with various features that can make the styling process that much easier. I definitely recommend trying one out, and if you do not know which one to buy, take a closer look at this review and the top ten options that are currently available on the market!

TOP PICK I love the Revlon Salon One-Step Drying and Volumizing Hot Air Brush . It can dry and style your hair in only a matter of minutes, it has high-quality bristles that heat to three different optimal temperatures, and it has a cool setting as well. If you are looking for a brush that comes at a great price but will still style your hair flawlessly, this is the right one for you!

Table of Contents

The Best Hot Air Brushes for Fine Hair Are…

1. revlon salon one-step drying and volumizing hot air brush — best overall.

Coming in first place as my best overall choice is the Revlon One-Step hot air brush. What I love most about this brush is that it will dry your hair, style it, and even contribute to making it more voluminous than ever before – all of this in a single step!

Key Features

• Ion generator for shinier hair
• Ceramic-coated bristles
• Airflow vents for faster drying

Everything about this brush is so great, from the ergonomic design to the innovative brush head with a cool tip and tangle-free bristles. By using this brush , you will not only save on time, but you will also make your hair less frizzy and less damaged.

• Adjustable heat settings
• Safe to use on all types of hair
• Brush head is not detachable

I recommend this brush for all hair types, but mostly for people with fine hair because it will give you the fastest, best styling experience of your life. You can even choose which color you want the brush to be, and what is better than that?

2. Hot Tools Professional 24K Gold One-Step Blowout Hot Air Brush

This hot air brush from Hot Tools Professional has a very similar design and almost all the same features as the Revlon One-Step brush. One of the biggest differences is the actual color of the brush. This 24K gold brush does wonders for styling hair and gives great results that last a long, long time.

• Long swivel cord
• Reduces frizz in hair
• Various speed settings

If you use this brush on fine hair, you will see that the hair becomes smooth and silky to the touch without any frizz or damage at all. Your roots will be voluminous while the hair strands will look beautifully straight or curly, depending on the look you are going for!

• Safety plug included
• Great for styling second-day hair
• Might be a bit heavier than some users like

This brush is a great choice if you are looking for something that looks expensive and gives professional results. You will not make a mistake if you invest in it!

3. Bed Head One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer Hot Air Brush

If you are looking for a hot air brush that is colorful and fun, then look no further than this Bed Head brush. Coming in a couple of color options, this brush has an amazing design that leaves the hair frizz-free and smooth.

• Tourmaline ceramic technology
• One-step hair styling
• Lightweight design

Thanks to the ego boost mixed bristles, you will be able to style your hair easily and however you like. Everything is possible – you can make your hair straight, curly, wavy, and voluminous!

• Quick styling results
• Three temperature settings
• Can be a bit loud

If you want to ditch your regular trips to the hairdresser and give yourself a nice professional blowout at home, this is the best product for you! At this price, you will not regret getting this brush for yourself.

4. L’ange Le Volume 2-in-1 Volumizing Dryer Hot Air Brush

This 2-in-1 volumizing hot air brush from L’ange comes in two different sizes. Depending on the length of your hair, you can choose the 60 mm or the 75 mm one. Everything aside from the size is the same in both brushes. There are also three color options for you to choose from.

• Heat and airflow control
• Tug-resistant bristles
• Professional swivel cord

What I love about this brush is that it comes with a protective cover and a cleaning brush. Thanks to the protective cover, you will not have to worry about damaging the bristles when the brush is in storage. On the other hand, the cleaning brush comes in handy when you need to remove hair that is stuck to the bristles.

• Compact, lightweight design
• Adjustable heat setting
• Doesn’t dry hair that quickly

This L’ange brush is something you have to look into if you have fine hair. Thanks to the adjustable temperature and the high-quality bristles, you will have no problem getting the desired look in only a matter of minutes!

5. CHI Volumizer 4-in-1 Blowout Hot Air Brush

This CHI hot air brush comes with four attachments. Aside from the round brush attachment, you get a diffuser, a nozzle attachment like the ones for regular blow dryers, and a paddle brush attachment. You can easily switch them and use the tool with whatever attachment you need.

• Ion ceramic technology for shinier, moisturized hair
• Detangling bristles included
• 1000W powerful motor

This brush has three settings: low, high, and cool. If you have fine hair, I recommend using it on the low setting as the high one is known to be a bit too hot for fine hair.

• Versatile and convenient styling
• Reduces hair frizz
• The round brush comes in only one size

No need to use more than one tool on your hair to make it look gorgeous – this tool proves that! Not only can you use it with four different attachments, but you can also make your hair extremely shiny and silky with only a few passes of the round brush.

6. ghd Rise Volumizing Hot Air Brush

ghd always comes up with some great hair tools, and this hot air brush is no exception. With a very elegant black design, the hot air brush looks great, and it styles fine hair even better!

• Optimal styling temperature
• Optimal barrel size for all hair types
• Tapered handle

Because of the barrel size , I recommend this brush for people who have fine hair. If you have thicker hair, you will need to divide your hair into many sections, and that can get a bit complicated.

• Auto shut-off after 30 minutes
• Cool tip included
• Temperature is not adjustable

If you are looking for a feature-packed hot air brush that will give you volume and a lasting hairstyle, this is the perfect tool for you. It might be a bit pricey compared to other brushes, but it is worth every penny!

7. Hot Tools Professional 1’’ Hot Air Brush

This is the second brush from Hot Tools Professional that I mention in this review, and there is a good reason for that! This brush is the perfect size for people with fine hair, and the ergonomic lightweight design is a plus!

• Removable brush sleeve
• Ball-tipped bristles

The barrel of this hot air brush has air vents that can help dry hair a bit faster, while the temperature can always be regulated and set on high or low. If you fear that it will burn your fingers, you can also add a cool tip.

• Comes with a seven-year warranty
• Great for straightening and curling hair
• Curl release switch might malfunction

This versatile tool can do wonders for your fine hair. The beautiful styling results are something I cannot forget, so I recommend giving it a try as soon as you can!

8. Conair Supreme Styling 2-in-1 Hot Air Brush

This great hot air brush from Conair comes with two round brushes that you can easily switch out. One of the barrels is 1-inch while the other is 3/4-inch and is more suitable for creating tighter curls.

• High-quality aluminum barrels
• Tangle-free long cord
• Even heat distribution

Thanks to the high-quality barrels on this hot air brush, you will be able to style your hair quickly and enjoy the curls for days to come.

• Dual voltage
• Versatile styling tool
• Not enough drying power

This hot air brush can be your best travel buddy – with the convenient size, versatile styling options, and dual voltage, it seems like the perfect tool to take with you on all your trips!

9. Conair INFINITIPRO Spin Hot Air Brush — Best Budget

Last but not least is the Conair Spin hot air brush. Even though the previously mentioned brushes were also great, this one is specifically designed for people with longer hair. Thanks to the 2-inch barrel, you will be able to dry and style even the longest of hair in a matter of minutes.

• Antistatic heating bristles
• Brushes rotate in two directions
• Reduces frizz and smooths hair out

I recommend using the smaller brush when you want to make waves or natural-looking curls and the larger brush when you want to create voluminous curls. Both these brushes style the hair and dry it at the same time.

• Can be used to refresh hair between washes
• Various temperature settings included
• Not as suitable for thick hair as it is for fine hair

This hot air brush comes at a very affordable price, but it still includes two brush heads as well as two protective brush covers. That is definitely something to consider when choosing your next hot air brush.

Want to see more? Check out our roundup of the best hot air brushes for most hair types here .

How to Pick the Best Hot Air Brush for Fine Hair

With so many options available on the market, I know it can be hard to choose a good hot air brush that will style your fine hair perfectly. Before you actually make a purchase, you need to do your research and find out what you should look for in a hot air brush.

I am here to help you out with that! In this buying guide, I will tell you exactly what your new hot air brush should include. So let’s get right into it!

Hot air brushes can have several types of bristles, but they usually come with either nylon or plastic bristles. Now, nylon bristles are great for styling hair, but they are usually recommended for coarse hair.

For fine hair, I would recommend getting a brush that has plastic bristles. They transfer heat quite nicely and evenly, and they can be great at keeping the hair tangle-free during styling.

Temperature Settings

Hot air brushes are generally a great idea for people with fine hair because they do a great job at lifting the hair and making it look more voluminous. However, your fine hair should not be styled with a brush that is too hot as that can lead to unnecessary damage.

When buying a hot air brush, get one that comes with an adjustable temperature that has several low-temperature settings. That will be very helpful when styling fine hair . But remember – even on lower settings, you should still use some heat-protective spray before styling your hair!

Cord Length

A lot of people think that cord length is not that important, but it actually is! If your cord is too short, you will have difficulties while styling your hair, and you might not even be able to reach some parts of it.

I would recommend getting a hot air brush that comes with at least a 7-foot long cord. You should also look for a cord that is swivel- and tangle-free. Usually, all professional hair tools come with this type of cord, so you might want to look into them.

Additional Features

There are a ton of features that you will come across, but only several of them are an absolute must when styling fine hair. First of all, you will need a hot air brush that has quality heat transfer and high-quality bristles because they will help you avoid doing unnecessary damage to the hair.

As I already mentioned, you should get one that has adjustable temperature and a long swivel cord, but you should also try to find one that has at least two different brush attachments. They will help you create different types of curls without having to spend money on an additional hair tool!

Another interesting feature would be a rotating action, and you’ll find that in these rotating hot air brushes .

To put the finishing touches on this review means to give you the final information that you need to buy a hot air brush for your fine hair. So here are two more questions that other people often ask in relation to this type of hair tool:

Are hot air brushes bad for your hair?

Hot air brushes are not bad for your hair, no matter if it is fine, thick, coarse, or otherwise. They style the hair quickly and nicely without damaging it. You will find that they only make your hair look more voluminous and healthy once you start using a hot air brush daily!

How do you get the hair out of a hot brush?

Getting hair out of your hot air brush is very important because leaving the hair on the brush can lead to it malfunctioning. After each styling session, you should remove all the tangled hair from the brush with either your fingers or a smaller comb. Before cleaning the hair out, you should make sure that the brush is not too hot and that it will not burn your fingers or melt the comb.

Go Style Your Fine Hair with a Hot Air Brush!

That’s all you need to know about the best hot air brushes for fine hair. Even though I gave you ten different options, I recommend looking into the Revlon Salon One-Step Drying and Volumizing Hot Air Brush as this is my favorite option. The Conair INFINITIPRO Spin Hot Air Brush will give you nearly the same quality for a lot less money.

What I want to say is that no matter which one of these brushes you end up buying for yourself, you will not regret it. They are all great for their own reasons, and I would love for you to try them out and see that for yourself. Let me know in the comments if you have any experience with any of these brushes and what it was like – I cannot wait to read all about it!

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The Best Hot Air Brushes for Short Hair

The Best Hot Air Brushes: Expert Picks for Flawless Hair

The 9 Best Hair Brushes for Men, Reviewed by Grooming Experts

Whether you have thick curly locks or fine straight hair.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

For starters, we recommend choosing a hair brush that is equipped with a strong handle and a blend of comfortable bristles. Beyond the ability to eliminate knots and snags, the best hair brush should also stimulate the scalp and remove any flakiness (aka dandruff) so your hair looks fresh and healthy, no matter the length.

Best Overall Hair Brush

Wet brush men's detangler.

Best Double-sided Hair Brush

Diane premium boar bristle brush.

Best Hair Brush for Curly Hair

Baasha hair brush.

Best Hair Brush for Wavy Hair

Kent og2 beechwood hair brush.

Best Vent Hair Brush

Cricket static free fast flo brush.

Best Paddle Hair Brush

Aveda wooden paddle brush.

Best Hair Brush for Thick Hair

Mason pearson pocket nylon hair brush.

Best Hair Brush for Thin Hair

Drybar round ceramic brush.

Most Affordable Hair Brush

Conair conair salon results hairbrush for men and women.

If you’re struggling with flat hair, a standard styling hair brush will give it more volume and support. For those with frizzy hair, a brush can easily eliminate frizziness while stimulating the follicles on the scalp for improved growth. And if you’re in a rush after washing your hair, a vented hair brush will help your hair dry faster. Really, when it comes to the best hair styling products for men, the possibilities are endless. We’ve rounded up the 9 best hair brushes that meet a variety of needs below to remind you just how low-maintenance grooming can be.

What To Consider

For fine or thin hair, hair brushes with tighter bristles are better since they can easily smooth and detangle. For thick hair, opt for brushes with bristles that are farther apart because they can better detangle and run through the hair without damaging it.

Bristle Material

The bristles on hair brushes are often made naturally or synthetically. Natural bristles typically come from the hair of boars; they can distribute your hair’s natural scalp oils evenly and give it a natural shine, and sometimes even increase blood flow by stimulating your scalp. And because these bristles are very close together, they’re great for fine or thin hair. On the other hand, synthetic bristles are often made with nylon and are often more spaced out, meaning they’re better for thick, coarse hair. Nylon bristle hair brushes can glide through pretty much any hair texture, making them versatile for styling and excellent at detangling.

For styling your hair, dense, boar bristle hair brushes are considered better for holding and setting hair for curls or your preferred hairstyle. Other than that, some hair brushes are meant for styling long hair versus short hair. Be mindful of that before you buy.

How We Selected

For the past two years, we consulted with Men's Health's Grooming editors and writers on the top hair brushes for men. Experts including our contributor, Cristina Montemayor, and our Deputy Editor of Commerce, Christian Gollayan, tried dozens of hair brushes and evaluated their feel and effectiveness. We also considered top-reviewed hair brushes that had great customer ratings on e-commerce websites that we trust.

Beloved by stylists, this best-selling hair brush uses patented flexible bristles that stimulate circulation for improved hair growth. Additionally, its ergonomic design adapts to a variety of needs.

This brush is made to use when the hair is wet to help detangle and prevent knots from forming. When your hair has tangles, it's more likely to break off, leading to increased hair loss. Gently brushing your hair while it's wet is one way to encourage healthy hair growth. We love that it works for a bunch of different hair types including straight, curly, textured, thick, and wavy hair.

Get two hair brushes for the price of one. This is a multi-purpose brush for the ultimate smooth style. One side uses boar bristles that help distribute your hair’s natural oils for healthy hair for smoothing and styling wave style, while the nylon bristles on the opposite side help to reduce frizz. Plus, this option is made of real wood with special UV coating to prevent against moisture and wear.

The curved design of the popular Baasha makes styling and detangling different hair types a breeze. And a bonus—the covered bristles provide a subtle massage effect that keeps the scalp healthy. The anti-static bristles glide effortlessly through every hair type, reducing unwanted static and adding shine. With 11 rows of vented bristles for faster drying and styling, it's a vented brush that is a great tool on its own, but when used with a blow dryer , the vents allow air to flow through the brush and directly onto your hair, resulting in a faster dry-time. No more walking out of the house with wet hair! This brush gives you that perfectly tousled look in just a few minutes.

Like we said, Boar bristle brushes are great for styling coarse and wavy hair. Take Kent’s beechwood version. Like most of its kind, this one will get you that smooth, ripple-like pattern, and gently distribute oils from the scalp—promoting shine and reducing frizz. One of our grooming testers has used this brush to freshen up his waves every night before setting a durag on top for a solid hold. We recommend repeating the same process in the morning to keep your waves in top shape. Plus, this brush can be used on your beard, too.

A vent brush is a crucial tool for styling hair, as it features widely-spaced bristles and openings that allow for efficient airflow. Enter Cricket’s Static Free Fast Flo Brush. This option received a seal of approval by JayR Mallari , a celebrity barber based in San Francisco, CA.

“I highly recommend [it] for men's styling due to its innovative design that effectively reduces static and frizz, providing a smooth and polished finish,” he says. “The brush's fast-flowing bristles effortlessly detangle and style hair, making it a versatile tool for various looks.”

We love that its anti-static feature ensures a hassle-free styling experience, and helps with quick and even drying. That said, it’s a reliable grooming accessory that enhances styling precision and promotes healthier hair by minimizing heat damage during the styling process.

Mallari also recommends Avenda’s wooden paddle brush, thanks to durable wooden construction, ensuring longevity and sleek styling. “The brush's wide surface area effortlessly detangles and smoothens hair, making it an ideal tool for achieving a polished and well-groomed look,” he says. We love this brush’s wide, flat design and flexible bristles, which distribute natural oils from the scalp to the ends and keep hair in optimal condition.

If you have particularly thick hair, consider a nylon hair brush. The softness of the bristles provides a strong but gentle detangling experience for more sensitive scalps. With 5 rings of fine boar bristle and nylon tufts to gently massage the scalp and release natural oils, your thick hair will be taken care of.

You can create creates smooth curls with this volumizing brush that helps reduce frizz and add shine. The ceramic barrel heats up during blow-drying, which helps lock in volume and curl. With a vented design that allows for maximum airflow—which means faster drying time—it helps detangle and tame fine hair. This brush is best for thin, straight hair.

Affordable and all-purpose, this simple option has nylon bristles and a no-nonsense design and is a perfect introductory hair brush. Best yet, it can effortlessly work styling products through the hair.

Why You Should Use a Hair Brush

No matter your hair type—but especially if you have long or thick hair—hair brushes for men are essential. They're great for dispersing your hair products and natural hair oils evenly (the latter can prevent dry ends, frizzing, breakage, etc.), and setting the basic structure of your hairstyle. A good hair brush like can also massage your scalp to stimulate blood flow. If you've got curls and tangles, hair brushes can tame them better than curls. Lastly, hair brushes can remove hair that is ready to shed.

What Brush is Best for Thinning Hair?

Every hair type has an ideal hair brush, and if you're having more bad hair days than good, you brush may be to blame. A soft bristle brush is best for thinning hair because it gently detangles without pulling out your hair at the root. Boar hair is similar in structure to human hair and both contain keratin, which is the protein that forms the strength of your hair. A soft, boar bristle brush helps distribute your scalp oils to the rest of your hair, which encourages healthy hair growth.

How to Brush Your Hair?

Men should be brushing their hair every day, especially if you regularly apply product to your roots and ends. You want to brush in long, even strokes using light to moderate pressure. If you have tangles at the ends of your hair, start by brushing the lengths first before brushing all the way through from the roots. Brushing isn't so much about brushing out the lengths but about massaging the scalp. If you want healthy hair that grows long and strong, start with a healthy scalp. Gentle daily brushing will help maintain scalp health by increasing circulation to the scalp and distributing those natural oils from root to tip.

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• Personal care

We Tested the Viral UNbrush on 4 Different Hair Types. It’s Actually a Great Detangler.

By Elissa Sanci

Elissa Sanci is a writer on the discovery team. She has found that clear ice makes carbonated drinks taste better, and citronella candles don’t work.

When I first saw the FHI Heat UNbrush trending on TikTok last summer, it was by no means new—but it certainly was captivating. I stopped scrolling as soon as I saw videos of the brush easily gliding through even the most gnarled hair. And I wasn’t alone in my obsession: Videos tagged with #unbrushbrush have garnered over 4 billion collective views. The hollow-backed, square-headed brush was also available through TikTok Shop, so it was extraordinarily easy to buy—and after emailing a representative of the company, I learned that it’s no exaggeration to say that millions of people bought the brush within the first seven months of its TikTok Shop launch.

I was one of them.

My fine, thin hair tangles so easily that all it takes is one gust of wind to whip my hair into knots. Brushing through it has always taken time, patience, and a willingness to wince through the painful tug of a hairbrush. As a kid, I’d throw a tantrum anytime my mom would even suggest combing my hair. As an adult, I’ve learned to soldier through brushing sessions, but I’ve never enjoyed the task.

But after a lifetime of yanking cheap drugstore brushes through my hair, I finally found a brush that snagged only some of the time: the hollow-back Wet Brush , a detangling hairbrush with an oval head and flexible bristles.

My Wet Brush and I were happy enough together for nearly two years, until an endless stream of UNbrush videos started flooding my TikTok feed last summer. I watched clip after clip of folks—with all different hair types—using the UNbrush to effortlessly comb through their tangles, their mouths popping open in surprise when the brush glided through matted locks with minimal tugging. And once I saw a video of a mother brushing through her normally brush-adverse toddler’s hair with nary a teary eye in sight, I was compelled to try the UNbrush—I saw myself in that tender-scalped kid, and I owed it to my younger self to give this mesmerizing hairbrush a shot.

With an apology to my Wet Brush (“It’s not you; it’s me”), I purchased the $18 UNbrush in October 2023. And I haven’t picked up my Wet Brush since.

FHI Heat UNbrush

A buzz-worthy hairbrush.

This lightweight hairbrush has a square head with bristles aligned in even rows, a design that allows hair to travel through straight pathways no matter the angle at which you hold the brush and works through tangles gently with minimal scalp-tugging. But it’s on the pricier side.

Buying Options

When the UNbrush arrived at my doorstep, my matted hair was in desperate need of attention, left tied in a bun for several days. I was skeptical that my new hairbrush would make the rat’s nest on my head any easier to comb out, but I ate my words almost immediately. The brush teased out my snarled locks gently, never snagging as I brought it down the length of my hair, and I didn’t have to hold my hair at the root as I brushed, a technique I would often employ with the Wet Brush to keep my hair from tugging at the scalp. With the UNbrush, I was able to detangle my hair faster and with far less wincing than I ever could with my Wet Brush.

A brush that sets itself apart from the competition

To learn more about why the UNbrush is so effective at gently detangling hair, I spoke with Sahalie Cindrich , a Utah-based hairdresser who has been using the brush on herself and with clients since November 2023.

Cindrich also first encountered the UNbrush on TikTok and was skeptical of its detangling abilities. She received the UNbrush for free via TikTok Shop in exchange for a review, but she told me that she would have bought the brush regardless based on intrigue alone. In her TikTok video (which has garnered over 525,000 views), Cindrich uses the UNbrush to detangle a client’s long, matted and highlighted hair, sliding the brush easily through tangled sections of damp hair while breaking down the key reasons the UNbrush works so well.

The UNbrush has a square head with bristles aligned in even rows. This design allows hair to travel through straight pathways no matter the angle you use to hold the brush, so the strands don’t twist around the bristles as you work through tangles.

Oval-head brushes such as the Wet Brush have only one clear pathway for hair to travel through, so you need to hold them straight up and down, with the handle pointing toward the floor. But most people end up using their brush at a 45- to 90-degree angle—holding a hairbrush in the “proper” position feels awkward and uncomfortable, especially if you’re brushing your own hair, Cindrich said. And if you’re holding a brush with only one straight bristle pathway at an angle, your hair ends up bouncing between the bristles in a zigzag pattern, which makes brushing out tangles more painful and could cause hair breakage.

The UNbrush doesn’t have ball-tipped bristles. The balls found on the end of most hairbrush bristles might not pose a problem when your brush is new, Cindrich said. But the ball tips tend to loosen over time, causing strands to catch and snag as you run the brush down your hair. In addition to forgoing ball tips, the UNbrush has bristles of varying length—58 long bristles to help detangle and 47 mini bristles for smoothing—that aid in gentle detangling.

A champion hairbrush for most types of hair

I’ve used my UNbrush consistently over the past eight months, and the process is always as effortless as it was the first time, no matter the state of my hair. To see if the brush would work just as well for folks with other types of hair, I enlisted three of my Wirecutter colleagues to help me test: one with curly, wavy type 3a hair; another with super-curly 3c hair; and one who used the brush to tame her kids’ curly type 2c and 3a hair.

They all had great things to say.

The UNbrush is gentle on your hair while eliminating tangles quickly. All of our testers found the brush easy to use, despite their varying hair types. It runs through hair more smoothly than other hairbrushes, doesn’t snag or tug too hard, and makes the brushing process more tolerable for young ones who normally dread brushing. We all noticed that, although the UNbrush pulled out some hair as we brushed, the amount of hair collected around the base of the bristles was far less than the amount of hair we’ve pulled out from other brushes.

Its backless, vented head makes it easier to keep clean. This is a boon for folks who use hair products that can build up around the base of the bristles, such as Wirecutter senior updates writer Sri Rain Stewart. Before testing the UNbrush, Sri used the Wet Detangling Brush , which collected product buildup quickly and was difficult to deep clean. The UNbrush’s hollow back streamlines the cleaning process , making gunk easier to wash away. And its vented holes also make it easier to use in the shower, as it doesn’t get waterlogged.

It brushes through both wet and dry hair nicely (for most people). Folks with curly hair patterns, such as Wirecutter software engineer Jasmine Khoury, often avoid dry-brushing their hair. But Jasmine enjoyed using the UNbrush to detangle her wet hair and found it more helpful than the Wet Brush she’d been using previously in styling her hair. “It helped separate my curls a bit more and spread product through my hair a bit more smoothly,” she said.

The testers who were able to use the UNbrush to brush both wet and dry hair, myself included, found it easier to brush through wet hair. Dry-brushing hair generally took our testers longer, but the bristles teased out tangles gently in both situations.

The plastic UNbrush is featherlight, so it’s easier to hold for longer. The UNbrush weighs 1.6 ounces, less than the hollow-backed 2.2-ounce Wet Brush I was using prior. That lightweight design is especially helpful for folks who have a lot of thick hair, as well as hair stylists, who have to hold a brush for the majority of their workday. But some people, such as a handful of Reddit reviewers who use the UNbrush, have noted that it can feel flimsy and cheap upon first hold.

It comes in more than 40 colors and patterns. With a range spanning from solid colors to translucent, glittery hues, the UNbrush is likely to appeal to most aesthetic preferences.

But the UNbrush has some flaws

The UNbrush is relatively expensive, and not every tester thought it was worth the price. The UNbrush starts at $18, which can feel like a hefty price tag for what is, essentially, a piece of plastic. (For context, the Wet Brush costs $7 to $11, depending on the style.) Some testers said that the experience of using the UNbrush outweighed the cost of the brush, but not everyone was convinced.

The UNbrush Mini doesn’t glide through tangles as smoothly as a standard-size UNbrush, and at $14, it isn’t much cheaper despite being half the size. The UNbrush Mini ’s smaller footprint makes it easier to travel with, but it also requires you to split your hair into more manageable sections.

You can find many UNbrush dupes out there, so make sure to get the right one. Spend a few minutes scrolling through TikToks about the UNbrush, and you’ll see plenty of people warning others not to spend their money on the cheaper UNbrush dupes that have proliferated online. If you’re interested in purchasing the UNbrush, be sure that the one you get is manufactured by FHI Heat. FHI Heat sells the UNbrush directly on its site; you can also find the UNbrush on Amazon , as well as in stores and online from Kohl’s, Target , Urban Outfitters, and Von Maur.

The UNbrush won’t magically detangle your hair, but it will make the process less painful

Wirecutter hasn’t tested hairbrushes, and we haven’t done exhaustive side-by-side comparisons of the UNbrush and other contenders. But we have compared it against various available brushes that we’ve used personally over a number of years, including different versions of the Wet Brush, the Tangle Teezer Ultimate Detangling Brush , drugstore-bought paddle brushes, and a dense beard brush repurposed for hair.

No matter which brush you’re running through your hair, using it correctly can make a world of difference. Cindrich recommends splitting your hair into manageable sections, especially if your locks are thick, rather than attempting to brush through it all at once. She recommends brushing from the bottom up: Instead of starting at the root of your hair, run the brush over your ends first, then slowly work the brush up your hair. And if you’re using a brush with only one clear pathway for your hair to travel through, make sure to hold it straight up and down as you brush.

The UNbrush doesn’t always make brushing through your hair as easy as it looks on TikTok. But when you use it correctly, with patience, it’s an excellent hairbrush that smooths tangles in all types of hair with minimal effort.

This article was edited by Annemarie Conte, Catherine Kast, and Maxine Builder.

Meet your guide

Elissa Sanci

Senior Staff Writer

Elissa Sanci is a senior staff writer for Wirecutter’s discovery team based in Denver. Her byline has appeared in The New York Times, Woman’s Day, Marie Claire, and Good Housekeeping. When she’s not testing TikTok-famous products or writing about car garbage cans, you can find her hiking somewhere in the Rockies or lying on the couch with a bowl of chips balanced on her chest. There is no in-between.

Further reading

The Best Hair Straightener

by Hannah Waters and Tiffany Kelly

We've tested 11 hair straighteners on four heads of hair, and we’ve found that the GVP Ceramic Titanium Digital is the most maneuverable full-size flat iron.

How to Dye Your Hair at Home (Even Though You Probably Shouldn’t)

by Lesley Stockton

If you’re up for temporary solutions, these are the stylist-approved at-home hair dye options that are less likely to damage your hair.

This Wacky $400 Hair Drying Vacuum (Yes, Vacuum) Gives a Great Blowout

by Nancy Redd

The pricey, bulky “reverse air” dryer—essentially, a vacuum for your hair—blows all other tools for straightening curly hair out of the water.

The Best Hair Dryer

After more than 70 hours of research and tests of 42 hair dryers, we’ve found that many perform similarly, but the Rusk W8less is the one we recommend first.

Choose the best hairbrush for your hair type

P eople with curly hair, straight hair, thick hair, thin hair and any type of hair in between require the right tools to look their best. 

That means choosing the right hairbrush. 

You may spend hours researching the right kind of razor, cologne or makeup, yet reach for that same old hairbrush without a second thought. There is such variation in available hairbrushes, and even more diversity in hair types, that it can be hard to know which brush is best.

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When choosing a hair tool for any desired outcome, it is important to consider what type of hair you have, what type of hairbrush is best suited to the task and what type of bristles are best for achieving a given effect.

Here's a deep dive.

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Paddle brushes are the go-to for people with a lot of hair, and they are very effective for straight hair in particular. Their flat, broad surface and widely spaced bristles deliver sleek results that will not break the hair's natural curl or wave pattern, so they are suitable for most types of hair. 

They are able to smooth large sections of hair quickly and are especially useful when blow-drying or detangling hair before straightening. People with thicker hair will want to choose a brush with sturdier bristles, likely made of nylon, which are flexible and can stand up to tangled, textured hair.

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Cushion brushes are a variation of paddle brushes that have bristles embedded in a soft, elastic cushion. This offers some give while brushing and is particularly useful for knotted hair, while firmer bristles might be better for styling. 

Cushion brushes are a good choice when a gentle touch is needed, as with fine hair.

Vented brushes are another form of paddle brush, though these come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Vented paddle brushes have holes, or vents, which make blow-drying wet hair faster as the hot hair flows through the vents, reaching deeper layers of hair as you brush.

The round brush has a cylindrical base with bristles protruding from all sides. This is used as a styling brush. They are often used in combination with a blow-dryer for their ability to create voluminous curls or waves when held vertically. 

They can also leave hair looking straight when wielded horizontally.

Smaller brushes tend to create a curlier look, while larger brushes make for a wavier look. Round brushes usually have densely packed bristles, creating a lot of grip and control over your hair, but you can find a round brush with any type of bristle on the market. For short hair, a small round brush is the most convenient.

Thermal brushes are a type of round brush that has a barrel made out of material that conducts heat, which makes blow-drying and curling faster and easier. But fine hair-owners, beware: Thinner hair is more susceptible to heat damage, so a thermal brush will better serve thicker locks.

Paddle brushes also come in thermal varieties.

Curly hair may be more prone to getting tangled. Taking care of curly or coily hair requires gentle finesse and tools that will not snag or pull. Enter the wide-toothed comb.

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Wide-toothed combs are best for thick hair, especially if brushing while wet, when hair is more vulnerable to breakage. Wide-toothed combs are gentle and will not tug. They are great for getting tangles out and distributing products down the length of your hair. 

A wide-toothed comb is a popular tool for those with curly or wavy hair who prefer brushing it while it is wet, even though some professionals recommend against it. 

A hair pick is a highly useful tool for coily or very curly hair. A gentle tug from a pick comb will lift curls away from the scalp to add volume. Separating and lifting curls at the root is a sure way to add some fluff and dimension to your hairstyle. A plastic pick is a lot gentler on curly locks, so they are better for detangling or styling loose curls than a metal pick. 

Metal varieties can be useful for thicker hair and tighter curl patterns, as long as you are careful not to scratch up your scalp.

The name says it all. Detangling hairbrushes minimize breakage when brushing knotty hair. The key is their flexible bristles, which can glide through knots instead of tearing them apart.

Detangling brushes are another safe choice when brushing hair when it is wet and at its most delicate, as the brushes are designed to be gentle.

Thick or thin, straight or coily, any hair type can be tamed with the right detangling brush. For people with long, thick and curly hair, however, a detangling brush is practically a necessity.

Teasing brushes are made to add volume to fine or limp hair. They are small brushes customarily used at the crown of the head to lift roots and create a fuller look. The small brush often comes with a pointed handle that can be used to easily section out hair.

Teasing brushes are often used to "backcomb," or comb hair backwards, from the end to the root, to add volume. But the process can be a bit rough on your hair, so proceed with caution, especially if you have finer, more delicate hair. 

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Their small size and dense bristles also make them great for targeting flyaways.

Rat tail combs are similar to teasing brushes. They come with long, thin handles that make it easy to precisely separate your hair into sections or work out small knots. They can also be used as a more gentle alternative to the teasing brush for backcombing, though the teasing brush's bristles may create more volume.

A loop brush can work for any type of hair, but is crucial for anyone with hair extensions. The looped bristles will slide over wefts without accidentally snagging and risking pulling them out, all while gently untangling hair like any good hairbrush should.

Soft boar bristle brushes are great for fine hair. The main draw of this brush is its fine, tightly clustered bristles' ability to distribute natural hair oils down the strand. These naturally occurring oils are critical to healthy, shiny hair . 

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Because people with curly hair can be more prone to a buildup of oil on the scalp, a boar bristle brush can be a good choice to carry moisture to your hair's drier ends while lifting away unwanted debris.

Despite how they might look, boar bristle brushes are designed to glide evenly through the hair. They are useful after heat styling to keep your hair healthy and moisturized, shape curls and avoid breakage.

For hair that proves too thick for the soft, highly flexible boar bristles, synthetic nylon bristles are more effective. 

The material also reduces static, which means your hair will be less likely to frizz up. Their tougher build gives you more control when styling.

If you want the detangling benefits of nylon bristles with the oil-distributing properties of boar bristles, look no further than a mixed bristle brush, which contains both nylon and boar bristles.

This type of brush is good for hair of medium thickness that can benefit from the shine left behind by boar bristles and the strength of nylon bristles.

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle .

Original article source: Choose the best hairbrush for your hair type

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Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The 13 Best Slicked-Back Hair Products for Smooth Buns and Ponytails

Smooth things over with these top expert picks

As seamless as creating slicked-back hair may seem, there’s a bit of a learning curve when it comes to styling it. There are many ways to achieve the same look, so it depends on preference and what works best for your hair type. And of course, no hairstyle is complete without the right product.

Shop our Favorite Products for Slicked-Back Hair

Best Wax Stick for Thick Hair

Bed head by tigi hair wax stick.

Best Wax for Fine Hair

Nexxus slick stick strong hold hair wax.

Best Loose Wax

Maria nila hair wax gneiss.

Experts say some of the most popular staples for slicked-back styles include mousse, wax sticks, hairspray, and a hardworking boar bristle brush . Professional hairstylist Raven Hurtado tells Bazaar that she prefers using mousse for slick hairstyles because you can apply it to dry hair, flattening it for a slicked look. “I also like using a wax stick because it keeps fine hairs locked down. Hairspray is also good because it’s a universal product to keep styles in place,” she notes.

Here, we've rounded up the best slicked-back hair products to perfect your next bun or ponytail. Keep reading for expert-approved favorites from R+Co , Bread Beauty Supply , and more that will even have prima ballerinas eyeing your updo with envy.

Taming hair frizz is key for achieving a sleek, slicked-back look, and this wax stick makes it easy. While there are a number of options available to shop, this one from Bed Head by Tigi is my go-to. The stick's beeswax and castor oil formula seamlessly combats humidity and sweat and has a pliable hold that prevents hair from looking greasy.

One satisfied customer writes: "This hair care product works very well and is super easy to use. It has helped keep the flyaway hairs from running rampant. It has helped maintain a smoother hair texture when styled." — Kandace

Here's another frizz-fighting wax stick favorite from Nexxus that's made for the long haul. To get its stronghold benefits, apply it directly to your hair, or use your hands for thorough coverage.

One satisfied customer writes: "The strong hold provided by this hair wax is truly impressive. No more struggling with my front hair falling into my eyes throughout the day. Despite its powerful hold, I love that this wax doesn't leave my hair looking sticky or oily." — Anonymous

Products from Swedish hair care brand Maria Nila have me in a chokehold as of late to style picture-perfect updos. I’m particularly impressed by this pomade from the brand that keeps my hair in place without feeling heavy. Plus, it adds a shine and moisture boost—thanks to a combination of shea butter and olive oil—that my sometimes dry and brittle hair can appreciate. It also has a fragrance of cedar and sandalwood that adds a subtle scent.

One satisfied customer writes: "Gives a nice bit of hold and texture without being too noticeable in dryness or shine." — Petar

Djerf Avenue On the Go Styling Gel

If you prefer to use gel for a sleek style, celebrity stylist Ursula Stephen suggests starting with damp hair. “Beginning with damp hair allows the product to spread more easily through the hair and prevents you from overusing it,” she explains. This popular pick from influencer and designer Matilda Djerf provides a flexible hold that helps tame flyaways. Since a little goes a long way, you only need a small amount for a seamless hair finish.

One satisfied customer writes: "This gel is perfect for creating a sleek hairdo very quickly. The formula is creamy, soft, and non-sticky, so the gel spreads easily through the hair without leaving a greasy feeling or look. And just like the mist, the scent is so addictive!" — Victoria

La Bonne Brosse N.01 The Universal Hair Care Brush

There are many hair brushes worth adding to your routine for a smooth finish, but professionals say this versatile option from La Bonne Brosse takes the cake. “A boar bristle brush is needed for smoothing and combing back the hair,” Hurtado says of its natural fiber design. Boar brushes help keep your hair shiny and balanced, as they're made to draw oil from your scalp and distribute it to the rest of the hair.

Mason Pearson Popular Bristle and Nylon Brush

You can't mention boar bristle brushes without including Mason Pearson. This tried-and-true tool is another boar bristle favorite experts, like Guido Palau , swear by. It contains a rubber cushion pad that cradles the scalp as you use it with a sturdy handle that makes brushing your hair through feel like a dream instead of a chore.

One satisfied customer writes: "I waited a long time to purchase this brush. It is expensive for a brush. But it feels wonderful brushing my hair. I was afraid that the bristles would not get through my hair. I have a lot of hair. But they did a good job. If you can swing it, it's nice to have." — HappyChaplain

R+Co Vicious Strong Hold Flexible Hairspray

Hairspray is a tried-and-true essential for keeping your look in place. For a high-shine finish, Jill Buck , celebrity hairstylist and extension specialist recommends this strong-hold version from R+Co that won't leave behind unsightly flakes.

One satisfied customer writes: "Nice styling and holding spray without the stiffness." — Nan106

Dae Monsoon Moisture Mask

Just like with many other beauty buys, the TikTok algorithm convinced me this moisture mask deserves a spot in my slicked-back rotation. It's an easy way to give hair the wet look treatment without even having to step foot in the shower. Plus, it also happens to be one of the most nourishing masks available, thanks to its combination of nourishing cactus flower extract, cocoa seed butter, and prickly pear seed oil.

One satisfied customer writes: "Great product, my hair holds onto the moisture from this product without feeling greasy or heavy. And my hair has never felt healthier, using three times per week for about three weeks and already have tremendous results!" — Stephanie

Bread Beauty Supply Hair-Foam: Curl Defining Mousse

This popular mousse has a nearly perfect rating at Sephora for a reason. Its flexible formula won't leave your hair feeling sticky or crunchy and holds your style in place while taming unmanageable frizz. And since it's extremely lightweight, it also won't weigh hair down.

One satisfied customer writes: "Used for the first time today! Incredibly soft but with a pretty strong hold, wonderfully scented. I’m excited to see how this mousse holds out <3" — paddd

Pattern Edge Tool

This staple from Pattern is a three-in-one tool, which means you can swirl your baby hairs to perfection and craft the perfect center or side parts. I still cringe looking at photos of myself with a misaligned part, but this handy staple has been game-changing for my updos.

One satisfied customer writes: "Great tool for styling edges and flyaways. Love the sleeve it comes with too." — designsbykellys

Goody Ouchless Elastic Hair Ties (Set of 30)

It's hard to craft a seamless slicked-back style without a great hair tie. Buck advises using multiple elastics to really secure your look. “First, establish your ponytail or bun where you want, whether it’s high or low, and section only the hair behind your ears," she says. "Your second ponytail will be with the remaining hair in front of your ears." She recommends adding styling products as you go and keeping a few clips on hand for expert sectioning.

One satisfied customer writes: "Love using this brand as they hold up better than any other brand we have tried. My mother and daughter all use this brand and rave that it hasn’t loosened too much or snapped." — lovelymamabear

Slip Wild Leopard Silk Hair Wrap

A silk scarf may not be the first thing that comes to mind for a slicked-back bun or ponytail, but it’s Stephens’s secret weapon for minimizing frizz. Its gentle tension helps prevent your look from shifting once your style is complete.

One satisfied customer writes: "Firstly, the quality is top-notch - there are a lot of silk products out there now but this Slip is by far the best, this is heavy, double-thickness silk that is just beautiful. Secondly, it is a good size so far more practical if you are used to wrapping your hair rather than using a turban. And it looks great!" — Loubielou32

Bellami x Andrew Fitzsimons Faux Wrap Ponytail Extension 160g 20" Dark Brown

To give your look some extra pizazz, might we suggest extensions? According to celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons , adding on a faux ponytail is an easy way to take the slick look up a few notches. As for placement, “I add them around where the base of the pony will be, pointing inward, so there is extra hair for a fuller-looking pony effect," Fitzsimons explains. "Then, I use a boar bristle brush to smooth hair into a pony: This distributes the hair evenly throughout." A good rule of thumb is to follow your jawline past your ear and create a ponytail where your hands meet. This alignment should place it slightly above your eye, providing a face-lift effect as a beauty bonus.

One satisfied customer writes: "I had trouble finding thick enough hair extensions to blend with my thick hair. With these I don’t even need all the wefts and hardly have to style it at all it looks that good! They’re so thick and soft and the color is spot on! I’m very happy with these!!!!" — Gina A.

Meet the Experts

• Ursula Stephen is a celebrity hairstylist and the owner of The Salon by Ursula Stephen in Brooklyn.
• Andrew Fitzsimons is a celebrity hairstylist based in Los Angeles.
• Jill Buck is a celebrity hairstylist at Nine Zero One salon in West Hollywood, California.
• Raven Hurtado is a professional hair stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago.

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Iman Balagam is a freelance writer who has been in the beauty industry for nearly five years. She has written for and contributed to top women’s magazines and digital brands such as Harper's BAZAAR, Allure, Byrdie, Elle and more. She will try *nearly* anything and spends a lot of time looking for new ways to store her beauty products in a small New York apartment.

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The Best Hair Detanglers for Kids With Knotty Locks

Glide through knots and tangles with ease.

What’s the Best Detangler for Kids?

• Our Favorites

Our Review Process

Our experts.

• Factors to Consider

Are Kids’ Detanglers Good for Hair?

• How Do I Detangle My Child's Hair?

Parents / Kristin Kempa

From curly and wavy to straight and coily—with more hair types in between—brushing through kids’ tresses can be a real adventure. Good detangling products and tools, like sprays, brushes, and more, help minimize breakage and pain (or tears), save time, and keep kids’ hair healthy. 

Your child's hair products should fit their texture and density and have gentle, safe ingredients. To help parents find the best hair detanglers for kids, we spoke with licensed stylists, salon owners, a scientist, and parents. Our experts provided insight into safe ingredients (and which ones to avoid) and hair types and textures in kids. In addition, a pediatrician on our Expert Board reviewed this article for medical accuracy and integrity regarding kids' hair detanglers and the best way to evaluate these products.

According to our experts, the best detangler for your kid depends on their hair type. Hair types break down into four categories: straight, wavy, curly, and coily—sometimes referred to as types 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Within types 2 through 4, the categories are subdivided into A, B, and C (i.e. 2A, 2B, 2C, etc.). As the letter and number increase, the texture becomes more apparent, with 2A being a barely there beach wave and 4C being a tightly coiled ribbon curl. 

Other factors like density and porosity, which refer to the thickness and how easily the hair can absorb and retain moisture, also influence whether or not a product is a fit. For fine hair, opt for sprays with a thinner, more water-based texture. “Generally, detanglers heavier in oils and butters work better than water-based detanglers, but they may also be a bit heavy for fine hair strands,” says Gaby Longsworth, Ph.D. , a certified hair practitioner.

On the other hand, "when dealing with a curly or coily hair texture, depending on the density, you might have to be generous with the amount of moisture used on the hair, especially on high-density hair," recommends Yvey Valcin , an award-winning master stylist.

Our Favorite Hair Detanglers for Kids

Best overall: fairy tales tangle tamers detangling spray, best for curly hair: cantu for kids conditioning detangler, best for stubborn tangles: sheamoisture kids extra-moisturizing detangler, best leave-in: socozy kids detangler & leave-in conditioner spray.

• Best Detangling Brush for Straight and Wavy Hair: Tangle Teezer
• Best Detangler for Curly and Coily Hair: Bestool Detangling Brush
• Best Conditioner for Straight and Wavy Hair: Johnson’s Ultra-Hydrating Conditioner

Best for Fine Hair: The Honest Company Conditioning Detangler

Best multi-purpose: paul mitchell taming spray.

• Best Detangling Comb: WetBrush Pro Detangling Comb

Why We Like It

The Fairy Tales Tangle Tamers Detangling Spray helps you quickly work through knots, manage frizz, and add moisture without leaving a gunky residue behind. It's free of harsh ingredients, like sulfates and parabens, and common allergens, like nuts, soy, dairy, and gluten. 

According to licensed stylist Jess Van Diest , the Fairy Tales detangling spray is one of her favorites because it's easy to use. She appreciates how the spray nozzle allows for more targeted product distribution , “so parents and caregivers can focus the detangler directly on the problem areas, making it less painful for kids,” she says.

But Take Note

Although the brand says the detangler works on all hair types, we found that it might not work for some kids with tighter curls and natural hair. However, Fairy Tales also makes Curly Q Conditioner , which is specifically designed for more textured hair types.

The Details:

• Size: 12 oz.
• Lid type: Spray
• Hair type: Straight, wavy
• Key ingredients: Vitamin E, keratin, jojoba, and aloe vera

Why We Like It 

The Cantu for Kids Conditioning Detangler nourishes and protects natural and curly hair by adding enough slip for fingers, combs, and brushes to glide through without causing pain or frizz. Key ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and honey keep hair soft and moisturized throughout the day without using harmful chemicals. And both parents and tots will enjoy the gentle and subtle scent. 

We appreciate how the detangler satisfies the needs of three hair types : curly, coily, and wavy. Moreover, it helps reduce breakage during the combing process and leaves hair feeling bouncy and healthy once dry. 

The small size might be a deal breaker for some parents caring for longer or more textured hair, as they may need to use more product to saturate and work through knots. That may translate into a higher cost, since the 6-ounce spray bottle may not last long. 

• Size: 6 oz.
• Hair type: Wavy, curly, coily
• Key ingredients: Shea butter, coconut oil, and honey

The SheaMoisture Kids Extra Moisturizing Detangler might seem like it’s best for kids with thick, curly hair , but it’s actually very versatile . If you have a child whose hair tangles easily, regardless of hair type, this Shea Moisture kids’ detangler has enough slip to tackle tangles and knots. Natural ingredients like slippery elm extract, coconut oil, and hibiscus flower extract can do wonders to cut down detangling sessions. This kids’ hair detangler keeps locks frizz-free and soft while providing hydration and defining curls. 

But Take Note 

The company says you can apply the detangler to wet or dry hair . However, depending on your child’s hair type, it may cause their hair to become stiff if applied on dry locks.

• Size: 8 oz.
• Key ingredients: Elm extract, slippery elm, coconut oil, and hibiscus flower extract

The SoCozy Detangler and Leave-In Conditioner Spray for Kids has clean ingredients, smells great, and really works. This detangler is free of sulfates, phthalates, and common allergens like gluten, wheat, and nuts. It works with most hair types and not only detangles but also strengthens hair after washing it .

While it’s effective at banishing knots, some users may find the detangler’s smell unpleasant. 

• Hair type: All
• Key ingredients: Keratin, soy protein, kiwi extract

Best Detangling Brush for Straight and Wavy Hair: Tangle Teezer The Ultimate Detangler 

No matter how good a detangling product is, more often than not, you’re going to need to use tools. The Tangle Teezer hairbrush is an excellent option for attacking knots because it works through wet or dry hair . Plus, it’s available in a rainbow of colors, so you can find something your little one will like.

The two-tiered teeth design is flexible enough to be gentle on strands and your child’s scalp. You can use it on your child regardless of their hair type, and it will leave them with soft, smooth, frizz-free hair. However, keep in mind that the more textured your child’s hair is, the less recommended it is to detangle it dry.

While this hairbrush is a fan favorite for many, it has fallen out of favor with some ultra curly and coily hair types over the years as more truly flexible bristle brushes have emerged (more on that later).

• Size: 8.7 x 2.6 in.
• Lid type: N/A
• Key ingredients: N/A

Best Detangling Brush for Coily and Curly Hair: Bestool Detangling Brush

If traditional detangling brushes don’t seem to make quick work of stubborn knots, then this very uniquely designed detangling brush may become your new favorite tool. What sets the Bestool Detangling Brush apart is the eight separate columns of bristles that allow it to move independently through strands. Plus, a size control bar adjusts the spacing between the columns. 

To speed up your detangling time, use the Bestool Detangling Brush on damp hair and saturate obvious tangles with a product. Once you finish detangling your child's locks, any shed hair from the brush is easy to remove. While we chose the detangler brush for curly and coily textures , it works on all hair types. 

There is a slight learning curve to using this brush. Hold the brush vertically when tackling tangles and then use it horizontally (how you’d normally hold a brush) when smoothing out a length of hair.

The Details:  

• Size: 9.85 x 3 in.

Best Conditioner for Straight and Wavy Hair: Johnson’s Ultra Hydrating Conditioner

Johnson’s Ultra Hydrating Conditioner contains vitamins and proteins that protect your kiddo’s hair and help keep strands moisturized and strong. Thanks to a gentle formula free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and dyes, it's tear-free and safe for toddlers and kids. Plus, it's hypoallergenic and budget-friendly for its large size.

Johnson’s Ultra Hydrating Conditioner isn’t fragrance-free, and the scent is slightly overpowering. It may remind some parents and caregivers of a baby smell, similar to baby powder and other products.

• Size: 13.6 oz.
• Lid type: Squeeze bottle
• Key ingredients: Pro vitamin B5, proteins

For fine hair, we're big fans of The Honest Company's Conditioning Detangler, and so are our kids. While it’s great for all hair types, it’s best for fine hair because the detangling spray is lightweight . According to licensed stylist Cozy Friedman , a heavy conditioner can weigh down fine hair—something to consider as you shop for detanglers. 

This detangler has naturally derived ingredients , like quinoa extracts and jojoba protein, as well as moisturizing ingredients, like shea butter and argan oil. The Honest Company detangling spray is also free of harsh ingredients, so it’s super clean and gentle on the hair. Plus, the spray smells good and will leave the hair feeling soft and smooth.

Even though this pick won’t weigh down finer strands, you may need to use more product to work through tough tangles. Potentially using more product is the main drawback of the detangler’s lightweight formula, as it may not provide enough slip and saturation to quickly work through more challenging hair. 

• Size: 4 oz.
• Key ingredients: Argan oil, jojoba protein, shea butter, quinoa extract

Paul Mitchell’s Kids’ Taming Spray is one of our favorite detanglers because it does much more than simply detangling. It’s a lightweight detangler and leave-in conditioner that helps calm, control, and protect all types of hair (including hair with dandruff). The detangler works quickly (which is key for young kids), reduces static , and leaves hair feeling soft and full of body. 

We like the faint floral vanilla scent because it’s calming and enjoyable. However, some parents (and kids) may not like the combination of the scents.

• Size: 16.9 oz.
• Key ingredients: White ginger root extract, wheat protein, amino acids, silicone quaternium-22

Best Detangling Comb: Wet Brush Pro Detangling Comb

All our experts agree that detangling combs are one of the best ways to free hair from knots because their wide teeth do the least amount of damage to the hair cuticle. We particularly love the Wet Brush Pro Detangling Comb, with its wide-tooth design and wavy teeth that help evenly distribute wet hair for more effective and simpler detangling. 

Likewise, wide tooth combs are often recommended for tighter curls and coils since the space helps to prevent excessive strain on strands, making it easier to work through tangles. Great for all hair lengths, the Wet Brush Pro has an easy-grip handle to help keep the comb from sliding out of your hand since water and conditioner can get very slippery. Moreover, it's a great option for older kids to care for their hair independently.

This wide-tooth detangling comb should work on most hair types, but it may not be as compatible with finer hair textures. 

• Size: 10 x 4 in.
• Lid Type: N/A

To select the best hair detanglers for kids, we studied dozens of top-rated detangling products and tools, including sprays, leave-in conditioners, brushes, and combs. We considered several attributes, such as size, lid type, hair type, and key ingredients, to ensure the products are safe for kids and useful for various hair types. 

Moreover, we reviewed guidance from the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA) on how to teach children healthy hair habits and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on harmful chemicals in products. We also spoke with a selection of experts who specialize in hair care and asked them about what to look for in hair detanglers for kids. 

The experts we spoke with provided insight into hair types and textures, and how to care for each of them. They also gave guidance on safe ingredients and which ones to avoid.

• Gaby Longsworth, Ph.D., certified hair practitioner and owner of Absolutely Everything Curly.
• Jess Van Diest, licensed stylist and salon manager at Kidtopia Salon.
• Cozy Friedman, licensed stylist and owner of Cozy’s Cuts for Kids.
• Yvey Valcin, award-winning master stylist and salon founder of Yvey Salon, a gender neutral and inclusive salon.
• Latoya Moore , a texture specialist and expert hairstylist at DevaCurl, and founder of Elle Moore's Beauty, a salon specializing in curly and coily hair types.

Factors to Consider in Hair Detanglers for Kids

• Ingredients to Avoid: According to Friedman, it’s best to look for clean products that avoid sulfates and phthalates. In addition, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a surfactant found in many soaps and personal care products; while effective at cleaning, it can cause excessive dryness and irritation, leading to breakage. Phthalates are chemicals used in various industries, including hair care, to create a gel-like texture. Because the FDA is unclear on the effects of phthalates on human health, it’s best to avoid the chemical wherever possible. 
• Ingredients to Look For: Longsworth recommends looking for products with a lot of “slippery ingredients,” such as marshmallow root, shea butter, jojoba oil, slippery elm, coconut oil, aloe vera, fatty alcohols, or glycerin. The slippery ingredients coat the strands to prevent tangle-causing friction, making it easier to run a brush, comb, or your fingers through the hair. These ingredients are a must-have for curly and coily hair types, which often need additional moisture and benefit from slip to reduce breakage during detangling sessions.
• Tools: Detangling tools include fingers, combs, and brushes. Fingers can be ideal when you're concerned that traditional tools could cause breakage. According to Moore, there are a few factors to prioritize, especially for curly and coily hair types. "When using combs, make sure it's a wide-tooth comb. This helps prevent snagging and breakage, and the gaps between the wide teeth minimize friction on the hair strands," they explain. Another factor to consider is the grip. A textured grip is ideal—especially if you need to use significant amounts of product—since you'll need to maintain a firm grip as you work through your child's hair.

According to Van Diest, detanglers are really good for hair because they help prevent the breakage and damage that may occur if you try to forcefully brush through tangled hair without any protection. “[Detanglers] add enough of a slip to hair to get the brush or comb through,” she says.

How Do I Detangle My Child's Hair?

Whether you're detangling a baby's, toddler's, or older child's hair, there are a few basic steps you should follow. Keeping younger children distracted with toys or other items while you detangle their hair can make the process faster. Longsworth offered a few tips for general hair detangling:

• Use lots of water: Saturate the hair with water and use a detangler with a lot of slip.
• Section the hair: The smaller the sections, the less tugging and pulling for little ones. Mist the sections often to keep the hair wet, and add more detangler if needed. Each section you detangle should feel slippery like seaweed and make a quacking sound when scrunched or squeezed. If it does not do this, add more water and more detangler.
• Start from the ends and work up towards the roots: This will keep the pulling and tugging to a minimum. 

Especially for curly and coily textures, Moore shares that caregivers should use a "good amount of conditioner that helps to soften the hair and provide slip, [to] make [it] easier to detangle and minimize breakage." 

Ashley Ziegler is a full-time parenting writer and mom to two daughters, a 2-year-old and a 5-year-old. Her daughters both have very different types of constantly tangled hair, so she understands the pains of combing through a wiggly kid’s knotted hair and the confusion of finding the right hair products for fine, straight, thick, and wavy hair.

Additional reporting by:

Dorian Smith-Garcia is a commerce, health, and parenting writer at Parents, and a mom of one daughter with very curly 3B hair that's fine—but tangles easily. With extensive experience detangling her daughter's hair and her own 4A/4B curls, she's well versed in the perfect ratio of slip to moisture to cut down the detangling time on her 5-year-old's below-the-bum length corkscrew curls.

Katrina Cossey is a commerce writer, enthusiastic shopper, and devoted mom. She’s researched thousands of baby products, toys, gifts, and more and personally tested many of them. Katrina's son has straight hair that tangles easily after playing outdoors, sleeping, and just moving in general. Because her son's hair isn't super long, she currently uses a detangling comb to smooth out knots.

Teaching Your Child Healthy Hair Care Habits.  American Academy of Dermatology Association.

Phthalates in Cosmetics. Food and Drug Administration.

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Conair Salon Results Hairbrush - Hair brush - Hairbrush for Men and Women - Detangling Hair Brush - Hairbrush for All Hair Types with Nylon Bristles

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

• PERFECT FOR EVERYDAY BRUSHING: Designed for all hair types and lengths, this professional hair brush makes daily brushing and styling effortless.
• ADD VOLUME AND LIFT: Bring out the full beauty of your hair with maximum volume and lift and minimal fuss. Volumize as you brush for full-bodied results.
• SNAG-FREE BRUSHING: Ball-tipped bristles glide through your hair without the annoying discomfort of snagging to slow you down.
• IDEAL FOR BRUSHING OUT A ROLLER SET: The nylon bristles provide just the right amount of resistance to brush out your curls for a polished, salon finish.
• PROFESSIONAL RESULTS: Crafted with an easy-to-grip handle for comfortable styling, this salon-caliber hair brush puts professional performance in the palm of your hand.

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Product Description

The Nylon Bristle All-Purpose Brush is ideal for everyday brushing, adding volume or brushing out a roller set to create the perfect style for all types and lengths of hair.

Product details

• Is Discontinued By Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No
• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 9 x 2.25 x 1.25 inches; 2.08 ounces
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ 80052HU
• UPC ‏ : ‎ 787734578653 074108800527 759894488837
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Conair
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B00112AFZG
• Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ USA
• #14 in Hair Brushes

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Customer Review: Good brush, Hard Plactic, zero flexibility, wrong colour.

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Perfect hairbrush for lazy people #founditonamazon #inspire

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Important information

Handle with care. Do not apply excessive force. Do not use harsh or abrasive cleaners.

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Customers say

Customers like the value, comfort, and weight of the hair brush. For example, they mention it's very comfortable while holding and brushing, has a nice feel, and is gentle on the scalp. Some appreciate the grip, effect on hair, and quality. That said, opinions are mixed on durability, and size.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the hair brush. They mention that it works well, has hard and stiff bristles, and is effective for brushing and straightening hair. Some say that the brush is small and practical, and that it is a good hairbrush for men.

"... Great brush at a great price." Read more

"these brushes last long and they are very good for brushing and straightening hair and its very soft and light weight" Read more

" Works. Bristles are hard ." Read more

"The brush is nice if you like very hard and stiff bristles that do not massage your head while brushing...." Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the hair brush. They say it's worth purchasing, cheap, and worth purchasing for travel.

"...Great brush at a great price ." Read more

"...It feels good and helps to detangle wet hair. It was a good value for the price . I continue to use it daily and have no regrets buying it." Read more

"...these are cheap enough (but great quality). stop trying to clean your old brush and make it last for years." Read more

"... Great price , too!" Read more

Customers like the comfort of the hair brush. They say it's very comfortable while holding and brushing, has a nice feel, and is gentle on the scalp. Some appreciate how the bristles are both gentle on their scalp and effective in distributing hair. Overall, most are happy with the comfort and value of this well-built hair brush!

"Had this brush before for years! Not only does it last, its comfortable to handle and easy to clean.Great brush at a great price." Read more

"...and they are very good for brushing and straightening hair and its very soft and light weight" Read more

"...This brush was a good option. I was pleased when it arrived. It feels good and helps to detangle wet hair. It was a good value for the price...." Read more

"...I do like it now. just not as soft on the scalp as my old one. (and i have plenty of hair and I am not tender headed)" Read more

Customers are satisfied with the effect of the hair brush. They say it untangles their hair very smoothly and easily with no pain. Some mention that it moves through hair without tangle.

"...I was pleased when it arrived. It feels good and helps to detangle wet hair . It was a good value for the price...." Read more

"I have thick wavy hair and it detangles my hair so quickly ...." Read more

" Great tangle free brush for my long hair. In fact so good, I bought 2 of them." Read more

"...Its easy to remove hair from the brush and the hole at the end of the handle is very convenient for hanging it up." Read more

Customers find the grip of the hair brush nice, easy to hold, and comfortable. They say it doesn't pull hair and works great with thick, unruly hair. Customers also mention that the brush doesn's snag or break their hair.

"...Use as pick to fluffy hair or brush style easy grip for senior hands Recommendgood quality for price" Read more

" Brush doesn’t snag or break your hair." Read more

" Good hold and painless bristles, untangles hair quickly." Read more

"...Its well-designed bristles effortlessly glide through my hair, detangling and smoothing with ease, even when dealing with knots and snags...." Read more

Customers like the weight of the hair brush. They mention it's easy to hold and use, and compact for easy travel. They also appreciate the thin, dipped point nylon bristles.

"...very good for brushing and straightening hair and its very soft and light weight " Read more

"...It is also light , elegant looking and has a cute design. I HIGHLY recommend this brush! It works fast and painlessly for any type of hair :)" Read more

"I really like this hair brush it is lightweight , small, gentle, and does a good job at brushing my hair." Read more

"...Great packaging, easy light materials ." Read more

Customers are mixed about the durability of the hair brush. Some mention that it's well-made, holds up well, and is dependable, while others say that the blue plastic tips began to disintegrate after a few months of use, the bristle tips started coming off, and the handle broke.

"Had this brush before for years! Not only does it last , its comfortable to handle and easy to clean.Great brush at a great price." Read more

"I only received one brush and should have gotten two. The package was ripped open when I got it and there is no receptionist or front desk." Read more

"...easy grip for senior handsRecommend good quality for price " Read more

Customers are mixed about the size of the hair brush. Some mention it's the perfect size and very sturdy and easy to clean, while others say it'll be too big for her. The handle and brush area feel a bit too big.

"Great brush!. Smooth and doesn't pull hair. Just the right size .." Read more

"...It's comfortable for me to hold while doing her hair. It would be too big for her , but will be fine once she's old enough to do her own hair." Read more

"This is a good hairbrush for men. It is small and practical...." Read more

"It was rather larger than I expected but that is probably my fault in not recognizing the sizing that was provided in the detail." Read more

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5 Best Cat Brushes for Feline Fur 2024

A cat brush is an essential tool for keeping your feline’s fur in tip-top shape. Whether you have a short- or long-haired cat, debris and dander can accumulate, and knots or tangles can cause uncomfortable mats. As a bonus, the more shed hair that you remove by brushing means less hair that winds up on your couch and clothes.

There are different types of cat brushes to choose from based on the length of your cat’s coat and the specific grooming goals you have. The key is to pick the right brush and use a gentle approach so your cat learns to enjoy being brushed. We’ve done the research to find the best cat brushes for short- and long-haired cat breeds.

Table of Contents

• Best Cat Brushes
• Things To Consider When Buying
• How We Chose

Safari by Coastal Pet Cat Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush  »

Self-cleaning mechanism to release trapped fur

Coated stainless steel bristles

Effective at removing tangles

Bristles can be bent or broken

Button can be finicky

Safari by Coastal Pet’s Cat Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush is a versatile tool that removes loose hair and reduces tangles thanks to its rows of fine stainless steel pins that are coated for a gentle grooming experience. The brush head measures 4 by 3 inches, giving you enough surface area while being small enough to easily maneuver.

Many cats enjoy being brushed with this tool, and pet parents appreciate the comfortable handle and how easy it is to clean. The brush features a push-button mechanism that lifts collected fur from between the bristles, making it easy to remove. It can take a little more pressure than expected to correctly use the release button, but it’s largely considered to be a swift, quick process. Since there’s no protection for the bristles, pay attention to how you store the brush, as some users have found that the fine bristles are prone to bending or breaking.

Hartz Groomer’s Best Slicker Brush for Cats  »

Affordable price

Stainless steel bristles with safety tips

Small brush head for accessing hard-to-reach areas

Hard to clean brush head

Coating on handle attracts fur

The Hartz Groomer’s Best Slicker Brush for Cats is a great value with specific features that make it well suited for brushing your kitty, like a small brush head and safety-tipped bristles to minimize the chance of scratching the skin. The brush’s petite form factor means it’s easier to use in hard-to-reach areas, like the backs of the hind legs where matting and tangling can occur. The manufacturer recommends this slicker brush for removing loose hair from all types of coats, but the style can be particularly useful on cats with medium to long fur, according to Amanda Fredal, a licensed veterinary technician and district team leader of Pet Supplies Plus.

The handle is lightweight and comfortable to hold so the brush doesn’t become fatiguing to use during a grooming session. However, cleaning the brush is somewhat inconvenient. The coating of the handle tends to attract cat hair, and there’s no mechanism to retract the bristles, leaving it challenging to completely remove all the fur from between the fine bristles of the brush head.

Mars Coat King Boar Bristle Cat Brush  »

Gentle brushing action

Sturdy beechwood handle

Natural bristles distribute oils

Not as effective at de-shedding

The Mars Coat King Boar Bristle Cat Brush is made with natural boar bristles to gently brush your cat and distribute oils throughout the coat. While it’s not an effective pick if de-shedding is your primary goal, it’s a popular choice for maintaining and giving a glossy sheen to the coats of short-haired breeds. Lynn Paolillo, a certified feline master groomer at Cat Naps Cattery, recommends a boar bristle brush like this one to smooth the flat-lying coat and “help to disperse some dandruff and small amounts of loose, dead hair.”

The beechwood handle of the Mars Coat King Boar Bristle Cat Brush gives you a sturdy grip as you brush your cat. This brush is a popular pick for cats who are new to brushing or uncomfortable with the sensations of other grooming tools. According to reviewers, one of the only downsides is that collected fur can be a little tricky to remove from between the bristles.

Chris Christensen 6-Inch Cat/Carding Buttercomb #013  »

Easily glides through long fur

Features short and long teeth

Seamless design to prevent pulling

Awkward to hold

For long-haired breeds like Persians and Maine coons, keep a comb handy for regular coat maintenance. The Chris Christensen 6-Inch Cat/Carding Buttercomb #013 is pricey but has a reputation for being well made and very effective at smoothing long fur. It has a solid brass core with stainless steel teeth and no seams, which means that it shouldn’t snag on your pet’s fur.

This cat comb features short and long teeth in an alternating pattern. Certified feline training and behavior specialist (CFTBS) Stephen Quandt explains the benefit of a comb with both short and long teeth: “Longer ones … help demat, and the shorter ones go deeper into the fur to get at undercoats.” So by using this grooming tool, you can remove knots and tangles while catching loose fur that has been shed from the undercoat.

The comb doesn’t have a handle or any type of grip to make it more comfortable or ergonomic, so it can be awkward to hold. That’s the biggest downside that cat parents point out – aside from the price. At $53, it’s more expensive than every other cat brush we recommend, but pet parents say it's well worth it.

KONG Cat ZoomGroom  »

Removes loose fur

Easy to clean

Comfortable to hold

Not designed for removing mats or knots

Doesn’t trap hair well

The KONG Cat ZoomGroom is a rubber curry brush, the type Fredal recommends as the go-to option for cutting down on cat hair around the house. However, she emphasizes that frequent grooming is essential: “The key here though is to brush often to help reduce shedding.” The KONG Cat ZoomGroom receives plenty of praise for how it removes loose fur effectively but is gentle enough to convince your kitty they’re receiving a massage.

The rubber brush is comfortable to hold and easy to clean, but it’s worth noting that some users complain that it doesn’t trap collected fur, meaning you’ll have some cleanup to do after using this cat brush. It’s also not intended for use as a detangler, so use a cat comb to remove snarls before using the Cat ZoomGroom in small circular motions to bring loose fur to the surface of the coat.

The Bottom Line

The best cat brush should meet the needs of your pet’s coat, whether it’s shedding control, natural oil distribution, or matting management. In some cases, you may need to use more than one brush to properly care for your feline friend, but for a cat brush that’s adept at removing loose hair and knots and versatile enough to use on short- and long-haired breeds, we recommend the Safari by Coastal Pet Cat Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush. It has fine safety-coated stainless steel bristles, a comfortable handle, and a push button to release trapped fur. For more intense de-shedding or cats who are looking for a soothing sensation, we suggest the KONG Cat ZoomGroom because it has rubber fingers that’ll gently massage your cat while removing loose fur.

Things To Consider When Buying Cat Brushes

Type: There are five primary types of cat brushes to choose from, and properly grooming your cat may mean using more than one tool. Here’s what to know about slicker brushes, natural and boar bristle brushes, rubber curry brushes, de-shedding rakes, and combs.

• Slicker Brushes: This type of brush features thin metal bristles and is versatile enough to be used on most types of coats, but “care should be used because the pins tend to be very pointy,” says Quandt. Look for a slicker brush with soft bristles or safety tips to minimize the chance of irritation.
• Natural and Boar Bristle Brushes: With a form factor similar to a human hair brush, a natural or boar bristle brush usually has a sturdy handle to hold onto and bristles that distribute the natural oils found in your cat’s coat.
• Rubber Curry Brushes: Frequently recommended for short-haired cats, a rubber curry brush picks up loose fur without being overly harsh or poking your cat’s skin. Small rubber fingers deliver a massagelike feel that many cats enjoy.
• De-Shedding Rakes: De-shedding rakes have a row of blades and should be used with care. “The inside of the blade is typically sharp, which can cut through thick hair but can also cut cat skin if not careful,” says Paolillo.
• Combs: Grooming your cat with a comb is often recommended by experts, and there are different sizes and types of combs to use depending on your cat’s fur length and the area of the body being groomed. Paolillo says, “The longer the hair, the longer the teeth of the comb should be.” She suggests a large metal comb – sometimes known as a greyhound comb – for areas like the body, chest, and tail. For smaller areas like the head, legs, and paws, she suggests switching to a smaller comb.

Coat Suitability: The type and length of bristles on a brush determine what type of coats it’s suitable for. For long-haired cats, you’ll need to choose a brush with bristles (or teeth, in the case of a comb) that’ll reach deep enough to do more than skim the surface of the coat. In the case of a short-haired cat, a brush with shorter bristles will be more effective without the risk of irritating your cat’s skin.

Maintenance: For a cat brush to be effective, it should be cleaned regularly, even during the course of grooming if it becomes full of fur or debris. And, unsurprisingly, “If the bristles on your brush become damaged, it’s time to replace them,” says Fredal.

Skin Concerns: Be conscious of your cat’s skin health and sensitivity. While cats aren’t prone to many skin concerns related to brushing, according to Paolillo, she says, “Dandruff can be pretty common, and while a bath is a better way to reduce the dandruff, a natural or boar bristle brush can help to more evenly distribute the natural oils in a cat's skin and collect some of the loose dandruff in their coat.”

Regarding skin sensitivity and grooming, Quandt says, “Irritating your cat’s skin or pulling at mats are probably the two biggest concerns.” He recommends that owners pay attention to the feedback they receive from their cat – body language and meows or cries – when using a grooming tool. He also offers this advice: “Slicker brushes with sharp [tines] generally need to be used with care, and senior cats or cats with sensitive skin may want a softer brush like a rubber brush or a soft bristle brush.”

How We Chose the Best Cat Brushes

At U.S. News 360 Reviews, we recognize that regular grooming is important for your cat’s coat health, and it’s imperative to choose the right cat brush for a positive experience. We asked pet professionals for advice on how to choose a cat brush based on coat length and more particular needs, like reducing shedding.

Our writer gleaned tips from Lynn Paolillo, a certified feline master groomer at Cat Naps Cattery . Paolillo provided information about the different types of cat brushes along with recommendations for short- and long-haired breeds. Next, we interviewed Amanda Fredal , a licensed veterinary technician and a district team lead for Pet Supplies Plus, to learn more about how to clean a cat brush and the signs that it’s time to replace your grooming tools.

We also interviewed Stephen Quandt, CFTBS and founder of Stephen Quandt Feline Behavior Associates . He also weighed in about the different types of cat brushes and spoke about how to make grooming more enjoyable for your cat. We then chose the most effective options for short- and long-haired breeds, prioritizing user-friendly brushes that are gentle on your cat.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

To ensure that we recommend the best options, our contributors and editors have years of experience researching, testing, and reviewing products. Erica Puisis , the author of this article, has six years of product reviewing experience as well as a background working for a veterinary practice and a keen interest in learning more about all aspects of animal care. For U.S. News 360 Reviews, Erica has covered the best in dog brushes , cat litters , and litter boxes . She’s also contributed to The Spruce Pets and Forbes Vetted.

Home goods editor Kayla Randolph is a lifelong pet lover with a German shepherd mix named Luna. Kayla is passionate about taking her knowledge of the home goods commerce space into the pet niche, as she knows how much pet parents care about the happiness and well-being of their furry children.

The frequency of grooming will depend on your cat’s coat length and condition, as well as the way you and your cat prefer to bond. Quandt, founder of Stephen Quandt Feline Behavior Associates, offers this general guidance: “Once or twice a week is sufficient for short hair cats, medium hair cats may need brushing every other day or multiple times a week, and long hair cats often need brushing or combing daily.” He points out that brushing can be a bonding activity between cats and their owners, and it gives you a chance to monitor your cat for any changes in coat condition or bumps or cuts that might require treatment.

“Regular brushing will help remove dead fur … and debris and prevent matting from occurring, which will reduce shedding overall and prevent your cat from potential injuries or infections caused by matted fur,” says licensed veterinary technician Fredal. While regular brushing won’t eliminate shed fur completely, it can lessen the frequency with which it shows up on your clothing or furniture. “Brushing and/or combing can reduce the dead hair from being noticeable around the house and furniture by controlling when most of it comes out,” says Paolillo, a certified feline master groomer.

Using the right cat brush in the proper way is important for a successful grooming session. Experts point out that using the wrong type of brush can be uncomfortable or painful for your cat and might be responsible for their adverse reaction to being groomed. In addition, don’t let tangles take over before you break out the brush. “Prevention is key to a positive experience for both cats and their owners, so it is better to do a little bit every few days instead of waiting until the cat is a hairy mess,” says Paolillo of Cat Naps Cattery.

Certified feline training and behavior specialist (CFTBS) Quandt gives this advice to make being brushed more acceptable to your feline friend: “With all cats, always brush in the direction of the coat, generally start from the head and neck down (cats typically like brushing around their head and neck), and have tasty treats at the ready in case kitty needs a distraction. A cat’s rear, belly, and tail may be more sensitive so be mindful and listen to what your cat wants.”

About Our Team

Erica Puisis

Contributor

Kayla Randolph

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

11 Best Shampoos for Color-Treated Hair, Tested by Experts

Whether you're a blonde, brunette or redhead, keep your dye job from fading with these top picks.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall Shampoo for Colored Hair

Tresemmé keratin smooth color shampoo.

Best Value Shampoo for Colored Hair

L'oreal paris everpure sulfate free moisture shampoo.

Best Shampoo for Color-Treated Dry Hair

Davines nounou shampoo.

To put together this list of the best shampoos for colored hair , we consulted our beauty editors and beauty scientists in the Good Housekeeping Institute for their top-tested picks, as well as professional hair stylists.

Shampoos of any kind are designed to clean away oil and dirt, and color-protecting formulas use the same basic cleansing ingredients but also aim to minimize the amount of dye that runs down the drain each time you wash . Not only do color-safe shampoos work to preserve your dye job, but they also help mask any damage by making strands feel softer and smoother too.

At the end of this guide, you can read more about how we test color-safe shampoos. If you're looking for more top-rated hair products , check out our guides to the best custom shampoos for a personalized wash, volumizing shampoos for fine hair and the best shampoos for blue hair and grey hair . Plus, consult our round-up of best at-home hair color products you can buy, like hair bonding treatments and root touch-up products .

Meet the experts:

• April Franzino , Good Housekeeping Beauty Director
• Patrick Kyle , New York City hair colorist
• Meri Kate O'Connor , Cooper Salon colorist in West Hollywood, CA
• Daniel Reboh , Femme Coiffure master hairstylist in Florida
• Rachel Bodt , New York City celebrity colorist and Matrix brand ambassador
• Clariss Rubenstein , Los Angeles celebrity hairstylist
• Michael Dueñas , New York City celebrity hairstylist

Keep your 'do from fading fast with the Tresemmé shampoo and matching conditioner that best helped retain color in the GH Beauty Lab's most recent test — the pair was also the consumer tester favorite. Though a sulfate formula, h air samples showed the least color change after 20 washes and 10 hours of UV exposure in Lab evaluations . Plus, this color-safe drugstore duo was the most affordable option we tested. Made with frizz-smoothing keratin and marula oil, the formula had testers saying it "felt creamy and rich like expensive salon-quality products."

A GH Beauty Lab go-to, this bargain-price sulfate-free L'Oréal Paris formula is made to both preserve color and soften strands. In a consumer study, the majority of women who used the shampoo and matching conditioner found that it helped hair color stay "pure" after four weeks of use , Lab data evaluation found. Just note that some online reviewers who have damaged hair found it drying.

RELATED: The Best Shampoos at Walmart for Every Type of Hair

Dry, brittle ends are a risk you take with dye jobs. Thankfully, Davine's NouNou shampoo aims to deeply nourish dehydrated hair while offering a "rich, creamy lather," according to celebrity hairstylist Clariss Rubenstein . Color-treated (especially bleached) hair tends to oxidize more than non-color-treated hair. Given that, Rubenstein says properly nourished, hydrated and moisturized hair helps color oxidize less. She recommends Davines because it makes hair feel "cared for, clean and not stripped of any natural oil ."

RELATED: 18 Best Shampoos for Dry Hair, According to Experts

Nexxus Color Assure Radiant Color Care Shampoo

This reasonably priced protein-infused shampoo and its conditioner counterpart from Nexxus win the praises of color pros thanks to its ability to remove product buildup without stripping color . "It prevents fading on any color-treated hair and maintains hair health," says New York City colorist Patrick Kyle . One Amazon reviewer wrote that it takes a decent amount of shampoo to get a good lather, however.

RELATED: 15 Best Clarifying Shampoos to Remove Buildup and Deep Clean Hair

BlondMe All Blondes Rich Shampoo

Keep color protection top of mind with a shampoo that celebrity hairstylist Michael Dueñas raves "helps strengthen the hair internally and closes the cuticle, ensuring that your color lasts longer with less fading." The castor oil ingredient leaves hair feeling incredibly soft and shiny, he adds. It's "also gentle with cleansing and retains your hair's natural moisture, ensuring you don’t strip away your artificial color ," says Dueñas. While online reviewers enjoyed the formula, one added that it dried out their hair slightly.

Pureology Strength Cure Shampoo

From a brand created specifically for color care, this Pureology shampoo and its conditioner formulation contain proteins and botanical oils to fortify and nourish dry, damaged strands . "I couldn't believe how soft and lush my hair felt after using these, even right after it was bleached," marvels GH's beauty director April Franzino . The shampoo comes with a higher price tag, though we think the hefty amount of product keeps this at a good value.

Fekkai Technician Color Shampoo

Great for keeping her highlighted hair looking fresh, Franzino also enjoys this color-safe shampoo for how well it leaves her hair feeling clean but not dehydrated . "Plus, the scent is amazing and makes showering feel luxurious!" she adds about its peachy smell with tropical notes. Paired with its companion conditioner, the brand claims that the duo gently cleanses colored hair. That said, some shoppers had trouble getting it to lather well, which led to shampooing twice for a more satisfying cleanse.

Shu Uemura Color Lustre Sulfate-Free Brilliant Glaze Shampoo

For a luxe sulfate-free option that increases vibrancy, check out Shu Uemura's color-protecting shampoo and conditioner , recommended by Meri Kate O'Connor , a colorist at Cooper Salon in West Hollywood, CA. "These have refining lipids that help to protect the cortex of the hair, where the color goes, so your shade lasts longer — and hair is left shiny and soft ," she explains. Those with dry scalps reported online that it felt less moisturizing, so oily hair types may benefit more.

Procter & Gamble Supreme Color Protect Shampoo

Created by the gold standard anti-dandruff brand, this Head & Shoulders shampoo and conditioner created for color-treated hair both contain the flake-fighting active ingredient pyrithione zinc . "Not only is dandruff at bay, [but] my hair is [also] shiny, smooth and smells wonderful!" reports one reviewer. Adding nourishment to the equation, the formula combines manuka honey and argan oil. However, online reviewers with curly hair — kinky textures, especially — noted that it wasn't as effective at detangling.

RELATED: 11 Best Dandruff Shampoos to Fight Flakes and Itching

Goldwell Kerasilk Color Gentle Shampoo

To keep hair color from fading, O'Connor turns to this pair from Goldwell, a collection specially tailored to smooth strands. If you want to make coarse or textured hair silky, she says the shampoo and conditioner are infused with keratin to add extra smoothness and shine. Oily hair types: It's worth keeping in mind that a few online reviewers reported that it left a greasy residue behind.

Matrix Total Results Unbreak My Blonde Shampoo

If you're on the search for shampoo for colored hair, opt for this stylist favorite. Celebrity colorist and Matrix brand ambassador Rachel Bodt recommends the My Blonde collection to all her clients who have gotten any sort of chemical lightening service, not just blondes. "Unbreak My Blonde is a three-part, shampoo, conditioning and leave-in treatment , meant to revive hair damaged by chemical lightening — leaving hair soft and shiny. " The only con: an Ulta reviewer who has fine, thin hair says it felt too heavy and hydrating.

How we test color-safe shampoos

The Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab tests shampoos for colored hair alongside each brand's matching conditioners , putting the pairs through a number of rigorous evaluations to see how well they perform. During our most recent test, Lab scientists prescreened over 160 shampoo and conditioner duos , narrowing them down to the top 10 formulas .

In the Lab, our chemists performed repeated fade-resistance testing on human hair swatches to mimic real-world conditions, including shampooing, conditioning, blow-drying and repeated exposure to UV light. They also distributed the label-masked shampoos and conditioners to consumer testers around the country, who used the products for two weeks, then evaluated the product's attributes, the look of their color and the feel of their hair after use.

What to look for in a shampoo for colored hair

✔️ Opt for strengthening ingredients. Look for ingredients like citric acid, which strengthens bonds weakened from the hair-lightening process. Bodt recommends Matrix Unbreak My Blonde collection for its ability to revive damaged hair.

✔️ Look for "sulfate-free" formulas. Sulfates sud the hair and cause pigment loss, says Bodt. When you have heavily bleached hair you will want to incorporate something that has a bonding treatment or protein and moisture.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Jacqueline Saguin covers all things beauty and beyond for the GH Institute. Before GH, she worked on Insider's style and beauty reviews vertical, where she evaluated skincare, makeup, haircare and more. She flexes her research and reporting skills by working closely with the experts in the Beauty Lab to put together product reviews on the very best haircare out there, according to consumer and Lab testing.

For this article, she also worked with Good Housekeeping 's beauty director, April Franzino , who has over a decade of experience translating the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab's rigorous product testing into compelling, factually accurate editorial.

Jacqueline (she/her) covers all things e-commerce in beauty, lifestyle and beyond for the Good Housekeeping Institute . Before joining GH in 2021, she was a style and beauty reviews fellow at Insider, testing viral trends, reviewing sustainable brands and more. She's a graduate of the University of Florida's School of Journalism, with a specialty in magazines and mass communication.

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Best Hair Color Ideas for 2024

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The 40 Best Haircuts for Thick Hair That Work with Your Glorious Volume, According to Stylists

Like the butterfly cut, bixie, french bob and shag.

Those of us with thick hair usually have one objective when considering a new haircut: to decrease the potential for poof . As Jasmine Burnside, editorial and celebrity hairdresser explains, “With thick hair, you have a high density of strands per square inch of your scalp.” Some folks also have thicker individual strands (hi!), which adds even more bulk.

The good news is that volume is never an issue. Rather, you’re optimizing your abundant mane by creating some shape and movement throughout. “For me, it’s less about finding the best haircut, but more about how you cut the hair and the techniques and tools you use,” says Burnside.

“Depending on the desired haircut, I would approach the look by using a razor to take out weight from the inside, which you can see in action here . If the hair is on the frizzier side, using scissors to slide cut gives similar results,” she adds.

This is why finding a skilled stylist who can work with your hair and styling preferences is so important. Having some points of reference is also handy ( instead of just saying “I trust you” to your stylist and hoping for the best), which is what we’ll help you with ahead. Here, 40 of the best haircuts for thick hair, plus some styling notes for them.

Meet the Hairstylists

• Jasmine Burnside is a celebrity hairstylist based in New York City, specializing in editorial, commercial and wedding hair styling. Originally from Maryland, Burnside attended a Paul Mitchell Cosmetology School. Her clients include actresses Ashley Reyes, Nida Khurshid, Gus Birney and Jessica Hecht. She’s worked on major runway shows and editorial campaigns including: Vogue, Marc Jacobs, ELLE, Ralph Lauren, Rebecca Minkoff, Alice and Olivia and Cosmopolitan, to name a few.
• Trace Henningsen is a celebrity hairstylist and ambassador for Leonor Greyl. She is currently based in Los Angeles. From cuts to color to special event styling, Henningsen's skills are especially sought after for weddings. She also has a line of couture bridal accessories and jewelry called  Henningsen & Co .
• Priscilla Valles is an industry vet of 23 years, specializing in hair extensions for celebrities like Dua Lipa, Shay Mitchell, Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, Kylie Jenner and Hailey Bieber. She created her very own dream line of hair extensions for the first-ever collaboration with Glam Seamless .

The Coolest Styling Hack for Thick Hair, According to TikTok

1. Long Layers

For those who prefer a low-maintenance cut, adding long layers throughout can break up the bulk without requiring much upkeep. As Henningsen explains, “The secret weapon to thick hair is long layers because they create movement and make your hair feel lighter.”

2. Blunt Ends

Isla Fisher’s lush curls look especially polished thanks to her clean-cut ends. (Note: This is also a good way to freshen up scraggly strands that have been damaged by too much heat or color.) However, if your hair is very thick, you might want to ask your stylist to use thinning shears to add discrete layers, as a straight blunt cut will potentially add too much volume.

3. Beachy Bob

Another option for thick and wavy hair? A beachy bob with blunt ends and some bulk removed from the inside to bring out that texture. When styling, Blakley recommends using a curling iron to smooth everything out and add shape.

4. Textured Bob

Here’s a 360 look of a similar style with slightly more textured ends. “I like to use thinning sheers to lighten up the ends, starting just a few inches from the scalp,” says Valles.

5. Sleek Bob

On the flip side, we have a sleek, straight bob that sits squarely above the shoulders. The weight is removed from the inside and cut in a slight A-line, so what you see is this flattering shape instead of the dreaded triangle.

6. Asymmetrical Cut

Thick curls do well with this style because there’s a balance between the natural weight of your hair and thoughtfully placed layers to give the whole look some shape. To style, blow-dry using a concentrator or a diffuser to ensure your roots dry completely and finish the look with a lightweight serum for added shine.

7. Shoulder-Length Lob

Dead ends weighing you down? A soft, layered lob that falls at or just below the shoulders is an ideal length for thick tresses that need a refresh. When styling, blow-dry with a flat brush to control the volume.

8. Face-framing Layers

No matter your texture, face-framing layers are one of the best haircuts for thick hair. They add a flattering shape—regardless of whether you decide to wear your hair curly one day and straight the next. Plus, the layers help manage density by reducing bulk and weight.

9. Curtain Bangs

Did you really think you’d make it this far into a hair story without seeing a mention of curtain bangs ? Jokes aside, the parted fringe works especially well on thick hair (as seen to great effect here). Bonus: They’re easy to style. Simply blow-dry them away from your face with a round brush. As the bangs grow out, you can also play with the part and try a side-swept look instead. 

10. ‘90s Layers

You know the look: long, otherwise sleek hair, save for the aggressively curled in ends. You can add the signature swoops with a flat iron, then finish the look with some hair serum to add a glossy sheen. This is a great cut if you don’t want to commit to a shorter look, but still want a little texture.

11. Textured Shag

Note: This cut will require more upkeep due to the different layers and their placement. However, if you’re seeking a funky fresh change, a textured shag certainly delivers.

12. Blended Shag

For a softer take on the look, opt for longer, blended layers and use color placement to break up the texture.

13. Shorter Shag

You could also go shorter with choppy layers and thinned out ends. Tip: Get yourself a texturizing spray to add some body and definition throughout.

14. Swept-over Pixie

Let the natural weight of your hair do the work for you by sweeping it over to one side. (Psst, this cut also has the bonus effect of highlighting your cheekbones, making it great for people with diamond and heart shaped faces.) To add the swoop, blow dry your hair with a round brush, while twisting it to create the soft wave on top. When dry, you can gently comb through the strands if there’s too much volume.

15. Undercut Pixie

Removing hair from underneath can keep the overall shape from looking like a mushroom cap. You can do this with longer hair as well. Either way, you’ll need a regular trim to maintain the buzz cut. This version of the pixie is great for round faces, which will balance the choppy layers and angular cut. 

16. Defined Curls

If your locks are naturally coily, this is one of the best haircuts for thick hair. Let your natural texture shine by keeping the layers light and long so everything sits just above your shoulders. To style, apply some curl-defining cream and use a diffuser to ensure your hair dries at the roots.

17. Tucked-in Bob

Thick hair usually gets bulky on the bottom and behind the neck. Depending on your natural texture, ask your stylist about using a razor to take the weight out just behind the neck. When styling your new cut at home, use a flat iron to tuck the ends under for a chic, Old-Hollywood inspired look.

18. A-Line Bob

Show off your lush locks with a blunt bob and slight A-lined ends that graze your collarbones and gently frame your face. It’s a great way to highlight your cheekbones or balance width if you have a round, diamond or square face.

19. Curly Fawcett

What goes around, comes around—especially when it comes to beauty trends. If you have naturally thick curls, you could try a Farrah Fawcett-inspired cut to really let those ringlets shine. But even if you don’t have naturally curly hair, you can make this work with a blow-dry brush , curling iron and some hairspray.

20. Angled Pixie

Ask your stylist to keep the back and sides snipped close to your head to balance out the weight of the longer pieces on top. The angled pixie will work well for those who want to play up their cheekbones or who want to create an illusion of a longer face. The sharp diagonal line cut by the top pieces will help with that.

21. Mid-Length Magic

Torn between going short or staying long? Always. Luckily, a mid-length cut is a happy (and flattering) medium that does well with heavier hair. Just remember to ask for some layers, even if they’re discrete, as a blunt cut might be too voluminous. The best thing about this haircut is that it’s easy to style. Simply air-dry if you’re running out the door, or heat style for a formal event.

22. Mid-Length with Fringe

Again, mid-length cut = magic on thick hair. Full fringe (and playful highlights) add extra sparkle. Ideal for people with long and/or angular faces (oval, heart, diamond), as the width of the cut will add a soft balance to your features.

23. Sculpted Curls

This side-by-side comparison shows how much a good haircut can liven up thick curls. Similarly to the mid-length cut with fringe, the roundness of this hairstyle will lend balance to angular face shapes.

24. Swept-Over Waves

If your styling MO is less is more, you can’t go wrong with a swept-over style and barely-there layers. To achieve the look, use a curling iron or a flat iron and then set with hairspray. If you want to preserve it for a few days between washes, pin it up and sleep on a silk pillowcase.

25. Side-Swept Curls

Textured, piecier layers remove excess weight, while adding movement and shape. As with the sculpted curls, try this haircut if you have sharp or long facial features you want to balance.

26. French Girl Bob

Ooh la la. The flipped ends, the rounded bangs, the cheekbone-grazing ends. It’s all très bien, as proven by Taylor LaShae, queen of the French bob. Depending on how thick your hair is, you may need to thin out the ends instead of opting for a full blunt cut. To style, use a flat iron to create bends in the hair.

27. Full Fringe

You know who pulls off bangs like no one else? You, because you have the heft to keep them from looking stringy. Pep them up in the morning using a round brush and blow dryer.

28. Volume Waves

Again, work with your natural volume and have your stylist just clean up the ends and add a few, well-placed layers in the front to give your hair a little shape. You can create the loose waves with a curling iron.

29. Tapered Bob

This bob is like the undercut styles above, but with less contrast between the longer and shorter layers, so the overall effect is softer. Try it if the thought of a complete buzz makes you nervous.

30. Modern Mullet

If you’re looking for more of a statement style, one of the best haircuts for thick hair is the modern mullet, which has risen in popularity over the past couple of years (and works especially well with thick hair because the layers help bring out your natural texture, while removing some of the bulk).

31. The Mixie

The ‘mixie’ (a mullet and pixie) had a major moment in 2022, and with stylists saying the shag is back, you can’t go wrong here. It combines the two classic cuts to create an edgier style.

32. The Bixie

Halle Berry first made waves after she debuted her Bixie haircut in 2022, which—you guessed it—is a cross between a bob and a pixie cut. Since then, she’s transitioned to a mid-length cut, but the magic of the Bixie cut remains. The top layers make your hair appear voluminous, while the length around the neck frames the face beautifully and balances the overall shape.

33. The Wixie

We promise this is the last iteration of the pixie on the list (for now). The latest take on the cut is the Wixie, which is a winged pixie that consists of wispier pieces around the face, layers down the sides that flip upwards and longer tresses that hug the neck.

34. Octopus Haircut

Named for the way the cut is round and more bulbous up top and spreads out at the bottom (like an octopus head and its tentacles), this style shares many similarities with a shag. Ask your stylist for lots of layers—or better yet, bring in an inspiration photo like the one above.

35. The Italian Bob

Rounding out the list is one of our favorite style of the year so far: the Italian Bob (aka “The Boyfriend Bob,") which took Instagram and TikTok when Florence Pugh wore the look to Cannes last summer. The key to getting this look is to have your stylist snip in some interior layers to add separation and keep the overall shape from becoming too round.

36. Choppy Bob

“A choppy bob works well with thick hair since it usually involves lots of layers vs. a classic blunt bob that would be super heavy looking because there is no layering,” Dean explains. Applying mousse and a glossy serum can encourage texture and shine. On that note, when styling at home, Dean recommends either diffusing the strands or air drying and then setting your hair with a finishing spray to hold the shape.

37. Medium Shag

Both Dean and Stenson agree that the key to getting the best haircut for thick hair is layering because it removes weight—which makes the shag a great choice. Plus, it’s easy to style. Just apply styling cream and mousse to wet hair and then air or blow dry, Dean says. “Finish by misting a texturizing spray on your ends to accentuate the layers.”

38. Graduated Pixie

“Graduated cuts equal a boost of height and volume by stacking your layers,” Dean explains. “You don’t need to do a whole lot except use a styling creme and mousse on wet hair to set the foundation. Once dry, you can use a texturizing paste to define your style by piecing out sections, bangs or even adding extra lift underneath at the roots.”

39. Butterfly Haircut

The popular butterfly haircut is one of the best haircuts for thick hair, according to Stenson. Here, long layers are the name of the game and the key to wearing it well is how you style it. To begin, Stenson recommends applying mousse to damp hair, which will ensure control and longevity. Then, he uses a medium or large ceramic round brush (this provides maximum air flow), wrapping the hair away from the face while drying on medium heat. “Once hair is cool, use your fingers to rake through and finish with hairspray (like Matrix Vavoom Triple Freeze). If your hair is naturally curly or coily, you’ll want to switch out the mousse for leave-in conditioner.

40. Disconnected Inverted Bob Shag

The disconnected inverted bob shag is all about the layers, creating a striking A-line down to the jaw. You can even ask for some face-framing bangs. (Just don’t go too blunt with them, as the style will feel bulky.) To style, apply mousse to wet hair and blow-dry. Use a wide-barrel curling iron if you want to add waves and set your strands with some hairspray for additional volume and hold.

How to Care for Thick Hair

“The key to thick hair care and maintenance is knowing when to cleanse and how often,” Dean explains. If your hair is thick with a fine texture, you can wash it more often. However, he notes that coarser hair often lacks moisture, so when washing, products like a cleansing conditioner can help with hydration.

“In general, hair should be shampooed when it begins to show signs of oiliness, loses its natural movement and/or when it just feels uncomfortable for your scalp,” Stenson explains. “If your hair is naturally dry or damaged, you will want to extend your time between shampoos as much as is comfortable for you. When hair is extremely dense or thick, you may feel the need to shampoo more often due to natural oils being more readily trapped in the hair near the scalp. My biggest tip for cleansing dense-thick hair of any texture type is to not rush through it. Take your time to ensure a proper cleanse at the scalp. Always rinse with cool water longer than you think you need to.”

“By applying thinning techniques in thick hair, it makes all the difference in setting the client up for success when styling at home,” Dean notes.

Additional Experts

• Chaz Dean is a celebrity hairstylist, colorist and the founder of WEN hair and body care line. Dean has over 25 years of experience, and his salon has served the likes of Ming-Na Wen, Nicole Murphy, Gilles Marini, Alyssa Milano, Gwyneth Paltrow and others. WEN is also the winner of multiple QVC Beauty Awards.
• Nick Stenson is the artistic director at Matrix , a haircare and color brand specializing in products for all hair types. Stenson is also the founder of N ick Stenson Beauty , a curated collection of luxe beauty staples. He is the 2021 winner of the North American Hairstyling Awards for the styling and finishing category.
• Kimberlee Blakley is the senior director of product development and trichologist with The Mane Choice , a brand that creates hair care products for textured hair. In her role, she conceptualizes new products, oversees the testing process and collaborates on packaging design. Previously, Blakley worked in product development for companies such as L’Oréal and Moroccanoil.

What Is Hair Density and Why Does It Matter?

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The 14 Best Hair Growth Serums for Fuller, Thicker Hair, Tested by Our Editors

Real-life tested and expert-approved formulas for thicker, fuller hair.

Our Top Picks

What to expect from hair growth serums, our testing process, our experts.

• What to Know

Your Questions, Answered

Health / Joy Kim

About 80 percent of men and 50 percent of women battle hair loss during their lifetime, and many of us invest a significant amount of time and money fighting it. While there's no magic potion, hair serums can help promote growth and thickness for some.

Hair growth serums enrich the scalp with nutrients, activate blood vessels to oxygenate hair follicles, and make the hair appear thicker. Ingredients like minoxidil, castor oil, rosemary, pumpkin seed oil, and menthol are recommended by experts for their benefits against dandruff, infections, dryness, and some alopecia forms. However, hair growth serums won't revive dead follicles for those with significant hair loss. According to hair restoration surgeon Dr. Alan J. Bauman , the best outcome is stabilizing further hair loss if hair follicles are irreparable or absent. So, for many experiencing thinning or wanting thicker hair, serums can be a valuable tool in their haircare routine.

With expert guidance, we tested 26 of the top-rated hair growth serums and evaluated the application, effectiveness, hair look, and feel. We also had a board-certified dermatologist on our Medical Expert Board review this article for medical and scientific accuracy.

• Best Overall: Kérastase Initialiste Strengthening & Volumizing Advanced Scalp & Hair Serum
• Best with Biotin: Sephora Collection Strengthening Hair Serum with Biotin and Phytoproteins
• Best for Thinning: Briogeo Destined for Density MegaStrength+ Peptide Density Serum
• Best for Shedding: Philip Kingsley Density Preserving Scalp Drops for Hair Loss
• Best for Heat Damage: Wild Growth Hair Oil
• Best for Fine Hair: Viviscal Hair Thickening Serum
• Best for Curly Hair: Pattern Argan Oil Hair Serum
• Best for Oily Hair: Augustinus Bader The Hair Oil
• Best for Frizzy Hair: Bomba Curls Dominican Forbidden Oil
• Best for Damaged Hair: K18 Molecular Repair Hair Oil
• Effectiveness : Results of hair growth serums may vary depending on the cause of hair loss and the specific product used. They are generally more effective for mild to moderate hair thinning but may not produce significant results for advanced hair loss.
• Specific conditions: Before selecting a hair growth serum, consult a hair growth specialist or dermatologist. This will help you identify your specific hair concerns and goals, and choose a serum with the right ingredients that can have better chances of delivering positive results.
• Application type: Hair growth serums come in oil and foam forms. Some require daily application, others only a few times a week. Choose an application type that suits your lifestyle for consistent use.

Best Overall

Kérastase initialiste strengthening & volumizing advanced scalp & hair serum, why we like it.

Kerastase Initialiste Scalp & Hair Serum proved to be the best overall hair growth serum, thanks to its potent, scalp-nourishing ingredients and impressive results . We used this serum almost daily for six weeks. Applying it was simple: after showering, we used a dropper to apply the serum to our scalp, then rubbed it into our wet hair before drying. The serum is lightweight and non-greasy , and we noticed significant hair growth and increased thickness , particularly in previously thinning areas. Its gentle, irritation-free formula worked well with our hair, and the mild, floral scent doesn't linger. Our hair remained light and not weighed down, and our hair stylist observed a notable difference because a haircut was needed due to faster growth.

It's Worth Noting

• While many find the fragrance mild and pleasant, some may find it unappealing or too strong.

Product Details

• Size: 2.2 oz
• Active ingredients: SP94, Ceramides, Green Tea Extract, Conditioning Agents and UV Filters

Health/Paden Reich

Best with Biotin

Sephora collection strengthening hair serum with biotin and phytoproteins.

The Sephora Collection Strengthening Hair Serum has a biotin-rich formula that strengthens hair from the roots, promoting thicker, healthier growth, while phytoproteins provide essential nutrients , making it a top choice for revitalizing hair. The serum, easily applied with a dropper, quickly absorbed into our scalp, requiring 3-4 droppers for complete coverage. Although a mild tingling was felt, the serum didn't irritate or cause acne and was scent-free. Overnight application left our hair significantly volumized by morning, without greasiness. In four weeks, our hair became healthier and thicker , and layers notably grew , adding manageability and shine. Despite making our hair softer and less frizzy, it did become greasier more quickly. This serum was a beneficial, user-friendly enhancement to our nightly routine, offering noticeable improvements in the quality of our hair.

It’s Worth Noting

• It may lead to quicker greasiness or heaviness in the hair, requiring more frequent washing.
• Size: 1.69 oz
• Active ingredients: Biotin, Phytoprotiens

Best for Thinning

Briogeo destined for density megastrength+ peptide density serum.

Briogeo's Destined for Density MegaStrength+ Peptide Density Serum is specially formulated to tackle hair thinning, offering a nutrient-rich blend that supports hair density and fullness. Its peptide-infused formula nourishes the scalp and promotes healthier hair growth . We applied it nightly using the dropper bottle for precise, non-greasy, scent-free application. The serum noticeably increased hair density and was well-suited for our fine hair without causing scalp irritation. The jelly-like texture , though thick, didn't clump or make our hair greasy, proving that a little goes a long way. Post-use, our hair felt thicker and voluminous , with some overall hair growth, making it a staple in our routine.

• Those with fine or thin hair may find its thicker texture heavier and harder to spread than lighter, oil-based serums.
• Size: 1.5 oz
• Active ingredients: Caffeine, CoQ10, Green Coffee Oil, Biotin, Copper Peptides

Health / Katie Bowler

Best for Shedding

Philip kingsley density preserving scalp drops for hair loss.

Philip Kingsley

The Philip Kingsley Density Preserving Scalp Drops are uniquely formulated drops that nourish the scalp and strengthen hair roots , effectively reducing shedding and boosting new growth , making it an essential pick for those battling hair loss. We used these drops daily. The application was incredibly user-friendly, thanks to the dropper in the cap with measurement marks. The oil felt light and quickly dried without leaving any heavy residue. The no-scent, non-greasy formula was a plus, making it easy to integrate into our routine. We noticed fewer hairs in our brush and observed new baby hairs sprouting. While our hair didn’t feel dramatically thicker, we saw promising signs of improvement , and even our editor's hairdresser of seven years commented on her hair feeling thicker. We would recommend it for its simplicity and noticeable results.

• While it is effective, this serum is $70 for a one-month supply.
• Size: 2.87 oz
• Active ingredients: Biomimetic Peptide blend, Azelaic acid, Pyridoxine HCL, Zinc PCA

Health / Laura Ellefson

Best for Heat Damage

Wild growth hair oil.

Wild Growth Hair Oil delivers an affordable solution that significantly boosts hair growth and fullness, particularly around the edges, without causing scalp irritation. Over six weeks of 2-3 weekly applications, the impressive improvements included healthier, fuller hair and recovered edges from heat damage , all without a greasy feel. The oil's natural, minty scent was distinct yet not overpowering. Ideal for thick hair, its slightly thick consistency requires only a small amount to be effective. We highly recommend it for its ease of use, noticeable results, and suitability for protective styles .

• The oil has a natural, minty fragrance that, while organic, may not be to everyone's liking.
• Active ingredients: Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Castor Oil, Jojoba, Eucalyptus

Health / Chantia Murphy

Best for Fine Hair

Viviscal hair thickening serum.

Viviscal Hair Thickening Serum offers an effortless solution for instant volume. Its lightweight, silky formula noticeably thickens hair without weighing it down or leaving residue, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a fuller look . Applied 2-3 times weekly, its weightless, silky texture provided a mess-free application and left no residue. The scent was a mix of fresh and chemical-like, subtle and non-lingering. Our hair, which grows steadily, appeared fuller during the testing period, had a boost in volume, and enhanced silkiness. Although effective fo r instant volume , we'd prefer a more long-lasting solution for hair health.

• It's recommended for immediate enhancement, but other styling products may offer similar benefits.

Size: 1.69 oz Active ingredients: Biotin, Keratin, Marine collagen, Seaweed extract

Health / Ciara O'Grady

Best for Curly Hair

Pattern argan oil hair serum.

 Courtesy of Ulta

Pattern Argan Oil Blend is perfectly tailored for dense texture. Its rich, thick consistency delivers deep hydration and enhances softness and shine without weighing hair down. Making it an ideal solution for maintaining the health and beauty of curls. Applied 4-5 times weekly, this oil was ideal for our editor's thick, curly hair, absorbing well without a greasy feel. After use, our hair appeared softer, healthier, shinier, and volumized . Our hairline appeared thicker , particularly in thinner areas, and it also helped with scalp hydration , reducing dryness and flakiness. While the oil seemed to be more effective in enhancing thickness than rapid growth, its benefits in moisturizing and softening make it highly recommended, particularly for those with thick, curly hair.

• If used on finer hair, it could potentially weigh it down and create a greasy appearance or feeling.
• Size: 3.9 oz
• Active ingredients:  Argan oil, Apricot oil, Sunflower seed oil

Health / Sidney Burds

Best for Oily Hair

Augustinus bader the hair oil.

Augustinus Bader

Augustinus Bader The Hair Oil ’s lightweight formula , enriched with botanical extracts and oils, provides essential hydration and nourishment without adding extra greasiness , ensuring a balanced and healthy hair appearance. The texture was a thin oil, which was perfect for our editor's hair type (thin, straight, prone to greasiness). It didn't weigh our hair down, and there was no oiliness on our strands or scalp. The scent was gentle, subtle, and slightly floral.  After use, this serum felt luxurious and high-quality, making our air-dried straight hair look more like a professional blowout. During the testing period, our hair became softer, fuller, longer, and silkier . It enhanced our naturally straight and flat hair with noticeable fullness and shine, and the overall quality of our hair improved significantly.

• While the lightweight formula is great for people with oily hair, it may not offer enough moisture for those with extremely dry or coarse hair.
• Active ingredients: TFC8, Baobab oil, Argan oil, Pomegranate oil, Vitamin E

Health / Lauren Critelli

Best for Frizzy Hair

Bomba curls dominican forbidden oil.

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Bomba Curls Forbidden Hair Oil is the ultimate solution for growing frizzy hair, offering a natural blend of nourishing oils that deeply moisturize and smooth unruly strands . Its unique formula not only softens and enriches hair texture but also leaves it more manageable and frizz-free . Applying Bomba Curls Forbidden Hair Oil was straightforward, and the oil's pleasant smell and gentleness on sensitive skin were positive. We like the product's natural ingredients and ease of use despite its tendency to leave a greasy appearance. After 5-6 weeks of use, we noted a richer hair color and softer, less frizzy texture . The oil's affordability, natural ingredients, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to our hair care routine.

• It has a tendency to leave hair feeling greasy and heavy, especially if not absorbed fully.
• Ingredients: Coffee seed oil, Black Cumin seed oil, Rosemary extract, Castor oil

Best for Damaged Hair

K18 molecular repair hair oil.

K18 Molecular Repair Oil uses lightweight, nourishing oil that penetrates deeply to repair and rejuvenate , making it the best choice for those looking to revive their damaged, lifeless locks and restore their hair's natural vitality and shine. We applied this serum twice weekly, and its unique button-top dropper made effortless application. The oil, thinner than our usual preference, absorbed without residue, enhancing shine and reducing frizz in our thick, coily hair. Post-testing, our hair was revitalized, feeling excellent and free from usual dryness and frizz. Thanks to its lightweight nature , it didn't make our hair greasy or weighed down. The minimal, slightly citrusy scent was a refreshing contrast to typically fragrant products, and we experienced no irritation or tingling sensations, common with hair oils containing mint or tea tree oil. While it didn't offer wild hair growth, the product delivered on its promises, enhancing shine and reducing frizz.

• While it's effective in addressing dryness and frizz, it may not be sufficient as a standalone treatment for those with extreme hair loss.
• Active ingredients: Caprylyl Caprylate/Caprate, Squalane, Avocado oil, Sunflower oil

Health / Aliyah Rodriguez

Best for Postpartum Hair Loss

Ceremonia aceite de moska hair oil & scalp massager set.

Ceremonia Aceite de Moska Silicone-Free Scalp Oil is a standout solution for postpartum hair loss, offering a nourishing blend of natural ingredients designed to rejuvenate and strengthen weakened hair . Its gentle yet effective formula is ideal for new mothers experiencing hair thinning, promoting healthier, fuller hair growth while providing the extra care and hydration needed during this transformative period. We used the growth oil 1-2 times weekly, and despite its runny texture, our hair felt hydrated, fuller, and healthier , with reduced split ends and no post-wash greasiness. During the testing period, we observed noticeable growth in shorter sections like bangs and baby hairs. This product had a positive impact on our postpartum hair recovery, with our hair growing an inch in six weeks (surpassing the average growth rate). This growth oil is suitable for all hair types and is vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free. It is also packaged in recyclable materials.

• It may be necessary to apply multiple servings to achieve thorough scalp coverage due to the relatively runny, greasy texture.
• Active ingredients: Meadowfoam seed oil, Coconut alkanes, Chia seed oil, Babassu oil, Rapeseed oil, Patauá oil

Health / Stella Yu

Best for Traction Alopecia

Taliah waajid gro hair gro bamboo and coconut milk growth oil.

Taliah Waajid

Taliah Waajid Gro Hair Gro Bamboo and Coconut Milk Growth Oil is the premier choice for combating traction alopecia, offering a nutrient-rich, hydrating formula. Infused with bamboo and coconut milk, Taliah Waajid Gro Hair Gro Bamboo and Coconut Milk Growth Oil strengthens hair follicles and promotes thicker regrowth , effectively addressing the key concerns of traction alopecia and promoting healthier, fuller hair. We used this growth serum daily and found the application smooth thanks to its twist-top applicator. We enjoyed the tingling scalp sensation and how the oil left our hair soft and hydrated. It worked wonders with our coily hair, sealing in moisture without making our hair feel greasy or weighed down. However, it didn't reduce frizz. Over 6 weeks, we noticed significant growth , particularly on our edges , and the new growth felt stronger.

• Initially, the scent was overwhelming but didn't linger and felt natural and fresh.
• Active ingredients: Sunflower seed oil, Sesame seed oil, Soybean oil, Avocado oil

Health / Masego Manamela

Best for Female Pattern Hair Loss

Rogaine women's 5% minoxidil foam for hair thinning and loss.

Women's Rogaine 5% Minoxidil Unscented Foam features a key ingredient clinically proven to stimulate hair growth and revitalize hair follicles, a crucial factor for those with androgenic alopecia , also known as female pattern hair loss. This lightweight foam formula harnesses the power of Minoxidil to effectively combat hair thinning , making it an essential choice for those seeking a proven solution to enhance hair density and promote fuller, healthier hair. We used this growth foam six times weekly. The lightweight, unscented mousse didn't weigh down our fine hair but lacked a direct scalp applicator for precise use. During the 6-week testing period, we did notice some hair growth . We only used half of the total product and observed an improvement in hair fullness , suggesting that with longer use we might see significant results.

• The mousse form made the application a bit messy and targeting the scalp challenging.

Product Details 

• Size: 2.11 oz
• Active ingredients: 5% Minoxidil

Best for Scalp Health

The nue co. supa thick scalp serum.

The Nue Co. Supa Thick Scalp Serum is a game-changer for scalp health, delivering a unique formula that not only promotes hair thickness but also meticulously clears residue , fostering a healthier scalp . We used The Nue Co. Supa Thick Scalp Serum 2-3 times weekly, appreciating its easy application and pleasant rosemary scent . Initial applications caused some tingling but no irritation. We noticed hair growth and an increase in scalp thickness , and our hair held more volume when styled, likely due to the product's residue-eliminating effects.  Our hair felt thicker and lighter, allowing us to extend our hair-washing routine. While not as rapid as other serums for hair growth, it excelled in improving hair thickness and reducing scalp buildup.

• Those looking for quick hair growth may find this serum's results slower compared to other hair growth treatments.
• Active ingredients: Redensyl, Probiotic, Rosemary, Clary sage, Peppermint

To determine the best hair growth serums, We tested 26 leading hair growth products , focusing on:

• Application: Whether it was foam or oil and whether the process was difficult or messy
• Frequency: How often we applied the product and whether it needed to be applied once per day or more often
• Effectiveness: If we saw results and how quickly
• Hair texture: Which hair growth serums worked best for particular types of hair
• Appearance: If the serums made our hair appear greasy or wet after application

We strictly followed the manufacturer’s instructions, starting by recording the product's receipt date and our initial hair length. During the 6-week test, we avoided other hair growth products, applying the serum/oil post-wash using the dropper/applicator, and massaging it into our scalp and hairline. We followed the specified duration for use and applied it daily if no guidelines were provided. After using the hair growth products, we remeasured our hair length and recorded the results to evaluate their performance.

In addition to our tests, we consulted with dermatologists, trichologists, and hair restoration experts on the best ingredients to look for (and what to avoid) to treat the various causes of hair thinning and loss. These experts include:

• Certified trichologist Bridgette Hill of Bridgette Hill Scalp Therapy in Palm Beach, Florida
• Shari Sperling , DO, owner of Sperling Dermatology in New Jersey
• Tiffany Young , trichologist and CEO of ThinHairThick
• Hair transplant surgeon, Alan J. Bauman , MD, ABHRS, IAHRS, FISHRS, founder of Bauman Medical in Boca Raton, Florida
• Paul Jarrod Frank , MD, board-certified dermatologist, skincare consultant, and founder of the bespoke aesthetic healthcare brand PFRANKMD

What To Know About Hair Growth Serums

If you're planning to purchase a hair growth serum, it's recommended that you consult with a hair growth specialist or a dermatologist first. This will help you identify your specific hair concerns and goals, and choose a serum with the right ingredients that can have better chances of delivering positive results. With the right product, you can avoid disappointment and achieve your hair growth goals more effectively.

Ingredients

Minoxidil has long been the gold standard in hair regrowth and is recommended by renowned dermatologists like Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank. But minoxidil is not without its downside—some reported side effects include eczema and scalp irritation. There are some minoxidil-free formulas that contain DHT blockers, like saw palmetto and pumpkin seed oil, to inhibit a hormone that can cause hair loss.

Scalp Health Oils

To maintain healthy and vibrant hair, it is important to nourish your scalp. If you are experiencing scalp issues such as itchiness, dandruff, or irritation, try looking for topical solutions that contain salicylic acid. Alternatively, you can try using natural alternatives like rosemary, peppermint, and tea tree oils but avoid products with silicones and heavy oils.

Application Type and Frequency

Hair growth serums are available in two different forms - oil and foam. If you have thin or fine hair, then using a topical oil may make your hair look greasy. On the other hand, foam offers a lighter, mousse-like solution that is more easily absorbed if it gets into your hair. There are some topical solutions that need to be applied once or twice daily, while others can be used a few times a week or on the days when you wash your hair. It's important to choose an application type that suits your lifestyle and preferences so that you can use it more consistently.

Growth Effectiveness

When it comes to the effectiveness of hair growth serums, results can vary from person to person. The amount of growth you can expect depends on factors like the cause of hair loss and the specific product. Generally, these serums are more effective for mild to moderate hair thinning. While some may see noticeable improvements in hair thickness and health, they are not guaranteed to produce dramatic results, especially for advanced hair loss. It's important to talk to a dermatologist for advice that fits your situation.

How will I know a hair growth serum is “working”?

You can take a before and after photo to determine if your hair is growing, especially if you are trying to treat bald spots. If you have thin or light-colored hair, it might only be noticeable if there's significant progress, so you can use your fingers to feel your hair and gauge if it seems like it's becoming thicker or denser after prolonged use. 

How often do I use these products?

Each product has different directions, but many are formulated for application once or twice daily. Some of our experts found leave-in products preferable, so keep an eye out for once-daily products that you can apply at night or leave on during the day. Some products are used before you wash your hair, while others get rinsed out after several minutes, like a hair mask. In any case, always follow the package directions carefully.

Alexandra Frost is a health and wellness journalist with over 15 years of experience interviewing physicians, and writing articles in the medical field. She has worked with other publications such as Popular Science, Huffington Post, and Washington Post, and has tested many products in her time as a journalist to help readers best understand what will work for them. She also has a Masters degree in education, and a Bachelor's degree in journalism, both of which she uses to help fully educate readers on health and wellness products she researches.

Rebecca Deczynski is a writer and editor. Her work appears in several publications, including  Inc., Domino ,  Health, Shape, People, Refinery29 ,  Nylon , and  Sweet . She received a degree in English from Barnard College in New York, NY.

Most men experience hair loss—but it isn’t inevitable. NYU Langone News.

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