Battle of the Brush
ask an expert: hairbrushescanada
(Oct.23.09)
Inspired by the fabulous looks at Fashion Week, we were determined to get some help in the hair department. Greg May, of Greg May Hair Architects, helps us with choosing the right hairbrush.
With so many different types of hair brushes out there, how do you know which brush to use for which hairstyle?
As with all brushes, paddle brushes come in a variety of bristle types. I want to focus on the bristles of the paddle brush because many people misuse this brush and damage their hair. I see this with the smaller denman style brushes as well. If a paddle brush has plastic bristles, with plastic balls on the end, it's great for carefully brushing through wet hair to detangle (although fingers are safer). If the bristles are boar, synthetic boar or a mix, they should not be used on wet hair. Hair is weakest when it is wet. The boar bristle paddle brushes usually have a padded base, which works to cushion the brushing. This prevents too much force on the scalp, as well as helps prevent static.
Natural boar-bristle brushes are the best brushes to keep hair looking shiny and static free. They get rid of any flakes from the scalp. They also bring the sebum (natural oils) down the hair shaft to condition and prevent dryness. The boar bristles also stimulate the scalp, increasing blood flow which keeps hair healthy.
Denman brushes are semi round, usually having synthetic or plastic bristles. These are great for reproducing a beautiful, clean bob cut with slight body.
To create height, waves, and other styles currently gracing magazine covers, choose a thermal round brush. Usually the base core will be ceramic which reduces static, works with negative ions, and promotes shine. Another choice would be an aluminum core, which conducts heat just like ceramic but is usually not as good at keeping away the static.
Vent brushes are great for quick blow dry styling. Having vents in the back of the brush lets the air penetrate, giving a quicker blow dry with added volume.
Greg May moved from his position as Creative Director at Holt Renfrew Salon to partner at Glo in 2000. He founded Greg May Hair Architects in 2003 and has since worked with a loyal clientele, who celebrate May's technical dedication and open and thoughtful approach to hair. You can follow Greg May on Twitter.
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