What Type of Brush to Distribute Natural Oils?

eHow
June 21, 2011

Proper care for a healthy, shiny mane can be a complicated endeavor involving a number of tools and products. The key to healthy hair is in the oil, and the best brush for managing oils is a natural bristle brush. Beauty experts extol the virtues of boar bristles, and nylon is acceptable as well.

The Science of Healthy Hair
A balance of sebum, or natural oils, is essential for healthy hair. Too much or too little oil can damage the scalp and hair, but proper shampooing can maintain that balance. Daily brushing is an important part of a hair maintenance routine. Brushing stimulates production of sebum and helps distribute the oil along the hair shaft, creating glossy, smooth locks. Too much brushing, however, can rob the hair of its natural oils and cause breakage. Pay attention to your hair's signals to create balance.

The Right Brush
Natural bristles like boar's hair are ideal for fine-to-normal hair types. Because they are animal products, they are built to distribute natural oils. The distribution of sebum from the follicle to the tips of hair boosts shine. Boar-bristle brushes can be costly. A less expensive alternative is nylon, a synthetic polymer with a silky texture. Nylon is best suited for thick hair, and performs nearly as well as natural bristles. There are also combination hairbrushes that mix natural and nylon bristles.

Using Your Brush
Natural and nylon brushes perform the same tasks as their plastic counterparts. Begin at the roots and brush gently through the tips to redistribute the oils evenly. Natural and nylon brushes can be used for blow-drying and styling, but they are not recommended for detangling wet hair. Detangle wet hair first with a wide-toothed comb, then style with the brush.

Caring for Your Brush
Natural brushes tend to last longer than plastic and metal brushes, which tend to lose their bristles. Because of their oil-absorbing properties, though, natural brushes must be cleaned regularly to maintain their integrity. To clean, remove the hair and dust from the bristles with a fine-toothed comb. Rinse in lukewarm water, massaging the bristles with your fingers. Don't soak for more than a few minutes. Allow the brush to air-dry. Clean your brush monthly for best results.

References
Beauty Ideas: An Insider's Guide to Hairbrushes
“Harper's Bazaar”; Get Thick, Shiny Hair; Caitlin Gaffey; August 10, 2007