Which hairbrush is good for my hair?

Just like the correct makeup brushes can create a flawless look, choosing the right hairbrush will make all the difference to your hair. Beyond simply brushing your hair, using the correct brush is guaranteed to cause less breakage and prevent bad hair days.

Whether you’re styling an updo, looking to highlight your natural waves, detangling stubborn knots, or opting for a glam blowout; the right hairbrush can be a game-changer. But how do you know which one to use for what? With so many options – from paddle to round to brushes with boar bristle – finding the best brush for you can be a pretty daunting task. Scroll down for a handy hairbrush guide.

Detangling brush

Hair type: All

Best for: Detangling hair wet 

Hair is most delicate when it’s wet, so using a brush designed to release tangles while being gentle on your strands is vital. Detangling brushes are typically made with flexible bristles that 
are gentle on the scalp and can easily undo stubborn knots without causing breakage or split ends.

Paddle hairbrush

Hair type: All

Best for: A shiny, sleek finish

Whether you’re rocking long locks or a sleek bob, a paddle brush is versatile and perfect for everyday use. Featuring a flat, broad, rectangular surface and flexible bristles, this brush is ideal for gently detangling and helps smooth and soften strands for shiny, polished tresses. It’s important to remember that paddle brushes are made with different types of bristles. For thick hair, choose a brush with sturdier bristles like nylon and synthetic, which can run smoothly through textured hair.

Tunnel vent brush

Hair type: Medium to thick

Best for: Volume and texture

The perfect tool for those with busy mornings (and limited time!) or those who prioritise speed and efficiency in their haircare routine. The vent brush is specifically designed to allow hot air to flow freely through the brush and your hair, significantly cutting back on drying time and making quick styling sessions a reality. It also provides a lift to your roots for extra volume and texture. With its flexible bristles, it's gentle and comfortable on your scalp no matter your hair type.

The wide-tooth comb

Hair type: Curly, wavy, or textured hair 

Best for: Detangling wet or dry hair and distributing hair products evenly

A wide-tooth comb is a must-have, especially for anyone with curly, thick, or textured hair. The broad gaps between its teeth allow the comb to delicately work through your strands, gently separating knots while preserving your natural curl pattern and preventing frizz and static electricity. But its utility doesn't stop at detangling. The wide-tooth comb is also excellent for evenly distributing conditioner or hair masks throughout your hair, ensuring every strand is well-nourished. 

Round hairbrush

Hair type: Medium to thick

Best for: Blowouts

Round brushes are ideal for creating volume and body in your hair, and are the secret weapon behind those enviable salon blowouts. Not only are there tons of bristle options when it comes to round brushes, but the cylindrical shape and varying sizes make them the perfect tool for creating everything from tight curls to voluminous waves. The rule of thumb is simple, smaller size brushes create tighter curls, while brushes with larger barrels create more volume.

Boar brush

Hair type: Fine hair 

Best for: Smooth, polished finish

If you want to enhance your hair's shine and improve texture, consider adding a boar brush to your haircare arsenal. Known for its natural bristles, this brush does more than just style your hair – it nurtures it, gently massaging the scalp, increasing blood flow, and unclogging the hair follicles. This brush is particularly beneficial for those with fine to normal hair as it glides through your hair without pulling or snagging. Plus, it creates flawless hairstyles that look soft and polished while keeping the strands feeling their best.

Edge brush

Hair type: Curly or natural hair

Best for: Smoothing baby hairs 

There’s no better tool to lay down your baby hairs (or pesky flyaways) than an edge brush. Designed to smooth down and define your edges, the small bristles are often soft and gentle to give you better control at styling your edges into your desired look. 

Hot air brush

Hair type: All

Best for: Creating bouncy blowouts and curls

Hot air brushes can cut your styling time in half while leaving your strands looking smooth, sleek, and salon-worthy. The beauty of this hair tool is it acts as part-blow dryer, part-curling iron, and part-straightener, giving you the ability to dry your hair and create smoothness, curl, or movement with one brush. 

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