Are You Using the Right Hairbrush for Your Hair Type?

You spend hours washing, cutting, dying, highlighting and styling your hair but how much time have you spent selecting the perfect hairbrush? Perhaps you've invested in several and have yet to find one that works your hair to its fullest? Whatever your situation might be, I've done the hunting for you and chosen some outstanding hairbrushes for an array of hair types. Your hair deserves proper tools and a quality hairbrush is the most important of those tools!

If Your Hair is Long...

A paddle brush is an ideal choice for long hair, especially if your hair is thick and straight. Paddle brushes help massage the scalp and limit pulling of the hair, both important practices for gals with lengthy locks. While this brush won't encourage volume, it will create a smooth, polished look. I suggest trying the CHI Air Expert Large Paddle Brush, it's fairly priced and uses a special technology that reduces static electricity. Plus, it has nylon bristles which are better for detangling wet hair.

If Your Hair is Medium Length...

Give a cushion brush a try if you have medium length to long hair. (Though it will actually work for all hair types!) Similar to the paddle brush, a cushion brush is used for smoothing and straightening hair. My favorite thing about using a cushion brush is that it distributes natural oils and nourishes your hair while brushing. I especially like the Hana K. Oblong Cushion Brush, it features boar bristles which provide maximum distribution of those natural oils throughout your hair.

If Your Hair is Short...

Dames with shorter hair styles should choose a vent brush. Vent brushes are ideal for adding volume to shorter styles because as you blow dry their vents allow for increased air circulation which not only dries hair more quickly but also boosts its texture. The T3 Tourmaline Styling Vented Hair Brush is a fantastic choice for those looking to give the vent brush a try. It features a lightweight ceramic barrel for heat retention, since you'll most likely be using this brush with a heated blow dryer, and ionic bristles which are purposefully designed to distribute the negative ions from the heat of a blow dryer.

If Your Hair is Curly...

Most people will say that anyone with curly hair should follow the "no brush rule" however, years of experience styling my little sister's naturally curly hair leads me to believe that there is more of a middle ground than most stylists will let on. What is this middle ground I speak of? A wide tooth comb of course! Combing curly hair in the shower (pre-conditioner rinse) is your best bet for an anti-frizz brushing solution. You'll be able to detangle and smooth your hair by distributing those healthy natural oils but won't rip it out or disrupt your natural curl pattern. I like the Ouidad Wide-Tooth Comb, it's perfect for detangling curly hair while in the shower and even has a built-in hook shaped handle to hang it there with.

If You're Bald...

Yes, bald people need brushes too! If you're in that sort of awkward, still going bald stage and you're shaving your head daily or multiple times a week then you definitely need a quality shaving brush for your noggin. A shaving brush will help generate a rich and warm lather, soften and lift the hair, open pores, bring sufficient water to the skin and gently exfoliate during your shave. I like the Fusion Chrome Collection Pure Badger Shaving Brush, it has a nice polished chrome design for ultimate comfort and durability, as well as a micro-textured surface for style and grip.

Found a hairbrush that's been especially loyal to you? Tell us about it in the comments section below! Remember, investing in a quality hairbrush is an investment in your overall hair health and you should be sure to clean and care for it just as you would any other hair styling tool. A dirty hairbrush can transmit harmful buildup to your tresses, so keep it clean and replace it at least every few months!

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