Hair combs and hair brushes, by TEGEN

Hair Combs vs. Hair Brushes: Which is Better for Your Hair?

Combs or brushes? A gentle guide to which suits your hair, from wet hair and curls to frizz and scalp care.

Hair combs are excellent for detangling and parting hair. Combs with wide teeth are ideal for detangling wet hair, while fine-toothed combs are perfect for creating precise partings. Hair brushes, on the other hand, are lovely for smoothing and styling. They come in different shapes, sizes and bristle types, each suited to a particular hair type and style.

What are hair combs?

Hair combs are grooming tools used to detangle and style hair. Their teeth are spaced apart, allowing them to glide through hair to ease out tangles and knots. They can also be used to create different hairstyles, such as parting hair or preparing braids. Combs are often slimmer and easier to carry, and our 12cm French Narrow Comb is a slim, elegant choice, suitable for all hair types.

What are hair brushes?

Hair brushes are also used to detangle and style hair. Their bristles are usually made of plastic or natural materials such as boar bristle. Brushing helps distribute your hair's natural oils, which can add shine. Brushes can also be used to create different styles, such as adding volume or smoothing curls.

Is a comb better than a brush?

A comb can be gentler on your hair than a brush. Because the teeth are spaced apart, combs are less likely to cause tangles and breakage.

Brushes are still an important tool for styling and smoothing. They can help create volume and shape, and are often used for sleek, straight styles.

Combs are a lovely alternative to detangling brushes, offering a much gentler touch on both hair and scalp.

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Are combs good for wet hair?

Wide-tooth combs are better than hairbrushes for wet hair because they smooth and detangle wet strands with less resistance, which means less stress on your hair. They are especially good for combing wet, curly hair because they help keep the curl pattern and reduce frizz.

If you are using a hairbrush, it is best to wait until your hair is fully dry before brushing.

Are combs good for your scalp?

Combs with smooth edges are gentle on your scalp. Combs with rough tooth ends, however, can irritate the scalp and cause breakage. Our French combs are handmade from cellulose acetate, a material we love because it is strong, flexible and plant-based. Each comb is then polished for the smoothest edges, so our French Handmade combs are kind to your hair and comfortable to use on your scalp.

Which comb is best for frizzy hair?

To help prevent frizz, use a wide-toothed comb while your hair is still damp. Brushing through dry curly or frizzy hair can make curls lose their definition and lead to breakage. A wide-toothed comb allows your curls to stay in place, so it is best to avoid brushes if frizz is a concern.