the unsung hero behind healthy hair
We all have our hair essentials. The serums, supplements, heat protectants, masks … all focused on nurturing our locks to stay strong and healthy.
But there is an unsung hero that often gets overlooked. One that plays a major role in the condition of our hair … our hairbrush.
And because not all brushes are created equal, we wanted to break down the basics to help ensure you are finding the right tool for your hair type.
The Benefits of a Good Brush
Whether it’s assisting sebaceous glands (the little glands that secretes natural moisturizes for your hair) or stimulating the capillaries and blood flow (fast-tracking nutrients to your hair follicles), your hairbrush does so much more than detangling and smoothing.
Did you know your brush can discourage bacteria health? Product and shampoo remnants can build up, creating an environment where your follicles can get clogged with bacteria. Pretty gross, right?
This is also a good reminder to ensure you are consistently keeping your brushes clean. All it takes is some warm soapy water about once a week).
For Fine Hair
We recommend finding a brush with a mixture of both boar and synthetic bristles for our fine haired babes.
This mix is essential for gently removing tangles without breaking your hair. It also does a fantastic job of distributing your natural oils, keeping your hair smooth and shiny.
For Detangling Wet Hair
Hair is at its most delicate when wait and we love a good Detangling Wet Hairbrush. Perfect for all hair types (especially for fine hair) and designed to prevent breakage, these brushes are typically made with flexible bristles that gently undo stubborn knots painlessly and easily.
For those with wavy or curly hair, a wide tooth comb is another option for safely combing out wet hair and distributing leave-in hair treatments.
For Blow Drying
The Paddle Brush is great for gliding through hair as you blow dry. It’s flat, wide surface allows the brush to move with your control but also smooths without breaking natural patterns of wavy and curly hair.
Not all paddle brushes are the same. For those with thick hair, choose a paddle with sturdier bristles (nylon or synthetic).
For thin or fine hair, you are going to look for paddle brushes with soft, flexible bristles and air-cushioned pads to avoid unnecessary tension.
Vented Brush
Another great brush for those looking for a quick dry is vented brushes.
These brushes feature holes in the back allowing hot air to pass through during rough blow dry, often speeding up the process for those in a time crunch.
For Blow Outs
The round brush reigns supreme to achieve that salon-fresh blowout style. Usually better for medium to thick hair, round brushes help tame frizz and delivers that bounce we all love. Round brushes come in wide varieties, so keep this in mind:
Consider the length of your hair and the size of the curl/wave you want when choosing your type. Small size brushes create tighter curls, while brushes with larger barrels are better to straighten and create lose waves.
Stay clear of metal or ionic barrels as they tend to cause severe heat damage to already weak ends. We suggest something more gentle like mixed bristles or natural boar bristles.
For Extensions
The Loop Brush is a must-have for our extension clients. Featuring unique looped bristles, the brush glides easier over wefts without getting caught or pulling on them.
From clip-ins to K-Tips and sew-ins, this brush is the perfect tool for all extension types and protects your investment unnecessary damage caused by pulling.
As always, the LB Team is happy to help recommend our favorite brushes and tools to keep your beautiful AND healthy.
Book some time in our chairs today, we can’t wait to see you.
Happy brushing!
