This is a debate that has been going on since the beginning of time (well, not really – but probably since people first started combing their hair!) Some people swear by a brush; others would never consider using anything but a comb.
There is a lot of personal preference involved, and we though it would be a good idea to look at both, so we can answer the question once and for all.
Before the days of brushes or combs, people would just use their fingers to remove knots (if, indeed, they bothered at all), and Native Americans reportedly used the dried tongues of Buffalo to smooth their tresses. I, for one, am quite pleased that those days are behind us!
There are innumerable products out there these days to brush your hair with – let’s take a closer look to find an answer to the question – hair brush or comb which one is better?
What is a brush?
Brushes are generally bristles attached to a handle, that is run through the hair to remove knots and tangles. There are many different types of brushes; from the hard, plastic bristled types to detangler brushes, and then to those with softer bristles and even those that are made from all natural materials.
Benefits of a brush
- Brushes can really help with the overall health of your hair, as they are good at spreading the natural oils from your scalp down the shafts and end of your hair.
- They can also be good at stimulating the scalp, and also removing dry skin flakes and dandruff.
- Brushing tends to be the quicker, more efficient way of smoothing your hair, as you generally only need to give it a quick once over to see the benefits.
What is a comb?
A comb is a thin, single layer of teeth, that is designed to remove tangles from your hair without pulling too much on the hair. Older combs tended to have very narrow spaces between the teeth, but these days the teeth are more widely spaced as this is better for the hair.
Benefits of a comb
- Combs, especially the wide toothed variety, are great at removing knots without causing the problems such as damaging the hair shafts.
- Combs can also be better at taming hair without causing static electricity, and so making your hair neat without causing it to be frizzy and fly away.
- As it is often easiest to comb your hair when it is wet, having a device that you can use in the shower is helpful, and you can happily take your comb in the shower without worrying that it will get damaged.
- Combing, rather than brushing, can help the curly tops keep their curls while still getting smooth, tangle free hair.
Which is ACTUALLY better?
Combing your hair with a wide toothed comb is widely considered to be the best bet for removing knots and snarls in your hair.
Yes, it may take longer to get the desired results, but it can be much better for your overall hair health and can help prevent split ends and damage.
It is definitely better to go for a wide toothed comb; don’t even consider one of those little skinny ones your dad used to carry around in his pocket!
The best way to comb hair
Believe it or not, there is a way to comb your hair that can offer the benefits of brushing as well as the benefits of combing:
- Gently remove the worst of the tangles by combing from the ends of the hair first, before you run the comb through all your hair.
- Bend over from the waist, and push all your hair forwards towards the ground. This will make the blood rush to your face and scalp, helping to give your whole head an extra burst of circulation.
- Comb your hair gently but firmly, making sure that the comb reaches through your hair and touches your scalp with every stroke. This will stimulate the scalp and increase hair growth, at the same time as removing dead skin cells and product build up.
- Don’t worry if you see a little hair loss – these are the dead, weak hairs that have no place on your head. Brushing your hair firmly and well can improve the overall health of your scalp and your hair.
If you’re still undecided, here is a little video that can show you the best way to brush your hair – whether using a comb or a brush. Enjoy!
