Tune up your beauty tools January 8, 2007
Is it time to give your old brush the brush-off?
Hair pros advise replacing your hair brushes as soon as they show wear, as uneven or broken bristles can damage hair. When browsing for brushes, choosing the right one — from the dozens of sizes, materials, styles and shapes in stores — may be the key to getting the look you want.
Here’s a rundown of what to look for in a new brush:
What should you pay?
At large retail stores and drug stores, you can find all types of brushes starting at around $6. But if you want higher-end, professional brushes (which are made for stylists and are more durable), you’ll need to go to a salon or a hair specialty shop. And expect to pay more depending on the brush, from $12 to $20 and up, said David Dandridge of Hair Odyssey in Montgomery.
Which type do you need?
Vent brush: This lightweight brush, which has vents, is slightly rounded on the sides and flat in the center. It is designed to speed blow drying, add volume and create texture.
“This brush provides root lift and volume for all types of hair,” Dandridge said. “The bristles grip hair during styling and creates lift.”
Paddle brush: With bristles extending out so they can stimulate the scalp and reduce stress to the hair, this brush is great for de-tangling, and ideal for people with long hair who want to have a smooth and shiny style, Dandridge said. Usually they are about four-by-four inches and may be made of wood and have boar bristles, which maximize shine.
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