Your Brush Is Damaging Your Hair

We often blame heat styling or harsh products for damaged hair, but have you ever considered that your hairbrush might be the hidden culprit? The wrong brush—or even the right brush used incorrectly—can weaken strands, causing unnecessary breakage, frizz, and split ends.

How Hair Brushes Cause Damage

1. Bristle Type Matters
Cheap hard plastic bristles can be too rigid, pulling at the hair and snapping delicate strands. Hard, unforgiving brushes create excess tension, leading to breakage—especially for textured or fine hair.

2. Incorrect Use
Brushing wet hair with a regular brush is a major mistake. Hair is more fragile when wet, and brushing too aggressively can stretch and snap strands. Instead, opt for a wide-tooth comb or a flexible Detangling Brush designed for wet hair.

3. Too Much Force
Rough brushing, especially when detangling, can cause mechanical damage. Tugging through knots without patience rips hair rather than gently separating strands. PRO TIP: Alliviate excess tension byu detangling the bottom third of your hair so the knots don't pile up on each other. Then move up to the bottom 2/3, and finally from the root and crown down.

4. Old or Dirty Brushes
Over time, brushes collect product buildup, oils, and dust, which can transfer back onto your hair, causing greasiness or irritation. Bristles also wear down, becoming uneven and scratchy, leading to scalp discomfort and breakage. A simple monthly  warm soapy wash can remove dust, debris and oils.

Is Your Hairbrush Causing Damage? Signs to Watch For:

|| Excessive Hair Shedding: If you notice more hair coming out after brushing, your brush or technique might be too harsh.

|| Split Ends & Breakage: Damaged ends and short snapped strands indicate that your brush isn't gentle enough. Look for flyaways that may have snapped off mid-length.

|| Scalp Sensitivity: If brushing feels painful or irritating, your bristles may be too stiff or scratchy. This could be an indication of fungal growth, so give your brush a thorough inspection.

|| Static & Frizz: Some brushes generate too much friction, lifting the cuticle and making hair rough and frizzy. If you find your hair is super staticky after brushing, you may need a hair cream or serum for extra hydration. If it's still happening, it's your brush.

What Should You Do?

1. Choose the Right Brush for the right job: A boar bristle brush is great for big round blowouts; the bristles are naturally flexible and won't smash through your knots. Vented flexible paddle brushes like our Detangling Brush minimize tugging and glide through knots on wet or dry hair, the unique venting allows for air flow for quick blow-drying.

2. Clean Your Brushes: Wash them regularly to remove buildup.

3. Detangle Gently: Start from the ends and work your way up when removing knots.

4. Use the Right Brush for Wet Hair: Swap regular brushes for wet-hair-friendly detanglers or combs.

A good brush should support healthy hair—not sabotage it. Give your hair the care it deserves, and it will reward you with strength, shine, and resilience!