Which Brush to Use, Wet or Dry
Wet hair is at its most fragile.
Wet hair gets the gentlest tool. Dry hair gets the brush that fits what you’re doing.
Which One
- Wet hair: a wide-tooth comb, not a brush. Straight hair? Let it dry a little before you comb.
- Dry straight hair: a paddle brush.
- Blow drying for shape: a round brush.
- Curls: detangle wet, with conditioner in, using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb. Skip the brush once curls are dry.
How
- Start at the ends. Hold the hair above the knot and work up.
- Brush to detangle and to style, then stop.
Good to Know
Boar bristle brushes can be hard to clean. Over time they can hold dirt, oil and bacteria.
Sources: American Academy of Dermatology, Tips for healthy hair (updated 12 Aug 2024, checked 17 Oct 2026) · American Academy of Dermatology, 10 hair care habits that can damage your hair (no date on page; checked 17 Oct 2026) · American Academy of Dermatology, 6 curly hair tips from dermatologists (30 Jun 2022, checked 17 Oct 2026) · Williams KN et al. Skin Appendage Disorders 2025;11(1):58-62 (checked 18 Oct 2026)
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