Quick, take a look at your hairbrush. Do you know what style it is? What the bristles are made of? Are you using the right brush for your hair? Don’t worry if the answer to all of those questions was no. After reading this article you’ll know just what type of brush you need to use for every occasion.
The Four Types of Brushes
Just like a handyman uses the right tool for the job, so does your stylist. These are the four types of brushes you need to know:
Round
The round brush is often used by stylists when blowing out your hair. The versatile round shape leaves hair smooth, cutting down on frizz. It also means round brushes can be used to create waves. You may notice your stylist using different sizes. Smaller round brushes are great for short to medium length hair while larger round brushes work best with long hair. When buying a traditional round brush, choose one with natural boar bristles or a combination of boar and synthetic bristles. Ceramic round brushes are another option. They are vented, which allows for air to reach the hair during a blowout, meaning faster styling.
Styling
Known for its curved shape and bristles only on one side, a styling brush has a gentle cushioned backing and no vents. Traditionally these have five, seven or nine rows of bristles with seven being the most popular. This type is ideal for curling hair under, creating volume at the roots. It’s also great for thick hair, bobs and mid length hairstyles. If your hair dries fast when blow drying then you’ll really benefit from this. Typically women prefer to use a seven row brush because it’s lighter and more manageable when blow drying hair.
Paddle
Have long, thick, smooth hair and want to keep it that way? Then the paddle brush is your tool of choice. This flat brush has an air cushion that means the padding and bristles are designed to collapse when they meet resistance. This keeps the brush from breaking, stretching or splitting long hair. Also, the bristles design allows the cuticle to lay flat making it perfect for smoothing and detangling hair without adding volume. It is also a great scalp massager! Want a paddle brush? Try out Shu Uemura Art of Hair Large Paddle Hair Brush For All Hair Types.
Cushioned
This type is ideal for medium length to long hair that is naturally straight or delicate but also works well with medium length curly hair. Designed with a soft cushion, a flat back and regular or balled tipped bristles, this brushes’ air filled cushion acts as a shock absorber and protects the hair and scalp from aggressive brushing. Another reason to choose a cushioned brush is to smooth, without creating lift or volume, short to medium length hair that is not too thick or dense. For detangling dry unmanageable hair, the cushioned brush is also the way to go.
Who knew choosing a hairbrush would be such a complicated process? If you’re still unsure which brush type is right for you, be sure to consult with your stylist.
