Tools of the Trade
Need a new comb? Or brush? Admit it, when you’re really in need of a hair styling implement you will use just about anything you can quickly and easily lay your hands on. When faced with the vast array of choices, whether at your salon or at a beauty supply store, most of us are swayed by how a comb or brush actually looks, not on what it will do for us. We’ll go over some of the basics of combs and brushes so that you are better informed and can make a good choice. Always ask your stylist for his or her advice. They are your hair-care experts and will always steer you in the right direction.
Combs: Combs are used to separate each hair to allow the brush to actually reach your scalp. They help unsnarl your hair and are used for parting. A comb should be made of hard rubber, wood, or bone. Unless they are exceptionally blunt, metal combs should not be used. The teeth should be perfectly smooth, set well apart, and the tips should be blunt enough that they will not injure your scalp. Most combs have a coarse end and a fine end. Usually you will use the coarse or wider toothed end to untangle and comb your hair.
Plastic combs are the most commonly available; unfortunately they have a seam where the molds came together which will snag your hair cuticles, damaging your hair. Plastic combs also allow for a tremendous buildup of static. Combing your hair polishes each strand, massages the roots of your hair and strengthens the shaft of your hair.
Cleaning your comb is an often overlooked chore, but the accumulation of hair products will leave refuse in your hair. Use alcohol or very hot water and shampoo. Soak the comb for about ten minutes, scrub with an old nail brush or old toothbrush until it is completely clean. Rinse and air dry.
Brushes: Brushes are designed to remove any particles of dust or dead scalp matter that is on the surface of your scalp. While most of us do not spend as much time as women in days past brushing our hair, it is an important way to keep our hair healthy and shiny. The right brush should be chosen based on our hair type.
Your bristle choices are either synthetic or natural. The best brushes use natural fiber, typically boar’s hair. If you cannot find natural fiber, be sure to check the synthetic fibers and ensure that they will be gentle enough to use on your scalp without damage. Run the brush down the skin of the inside of your forearm. It should feel firm and smooth. If it scratches, don’t buy it, it will damage your scalp.
Round Brush
Round brushes give you curl and hairstyle definition. The small the diameter of the brush, the tighter the curl. Smaller round brushes are beneficial for shorter hair, larger for longer hair. Some round brushes have a ceramic base that helps to set curl in your hair.
A vent hair brush with a hole in the base allows air to pass through to allow for faster blow drying. They boost volume and can detangle your hair. Paddle hair brushes are great for straightening hair that is medium to long, smoothing as you go. This brush encourages your hair to lie flat and is excellent for no layered hair.
Cushion Hair Brush
A cushion hair brush is designed for daily brushing, and it will massage your scalp.
