Boar bristle brushes effectively smooth, lift and help redistribute oil throughout the hair.
Hairbrushes are used not only to keep hair clean and styled, but also to distribute oil from the scalp to the ends of the strands. Different types of hair brushes work on different hair types, lengths, and hair styles. Common types include round and flat paddle brushes, scrub brushes, and heat brushes, as well as wire brushes, oval brushes, and cushion brushes.
Paddle-shaped hair brushes are good for smoothing and straightening hair. They can tame curly and wavy hair but are not suitable for creating volume. They are usually large, flat and rectangular and offer ample coverage.
Sculpting brushes are suitable for use on the ends of cut or shaved hair. They tend to work best on shorter haircuts, as well as textured shapes and rounded layers. A styling brush can also be used to create volume by combing the hair back.
A clip-on brush aids in straight styling and makes it easy to straighten hair as it dries.
Round heated brushes can style short hair, especially when blow-drying. They are available in different widths to add different shapes to the hair. When used with a blow dryer, they often straighten and add volume to hair. Flat heat brushes tend to stretch hair and can help create a soft, smooth look.
Wire brushes generally work best with thick hair, as they can be harsh on the scalps of those with finer hair. They can also work well on curly hair. The ones with plastic dots on the ends of the metal spokes are usually soft enough for people with finer hair.
Experts say that some hairbrushes do more harm than good to your hair and scalp.
Oval hairbrushes generally don’t add much volume to hair and are good for long, straight hair. The quilted versions are ideal for medium to long hair, as the longer it is, the more susceptible it is to breakage. Cushioned brushes tend to cushion hair and help prevent breakage and damage.
Some brushes are made with synthetic bristles instead of wire. Synthetic bristle brushes are more widely available and are generally much cheaper than natural bristle brushes, but they can create static in the hair. Fine hair is especially subject to static. Natural bristle hairbrushes are often made from boar hair and tend to reduce static in the hair.