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

Trying to choose a hair care tool? There are so many on the market. Finding the right one for your hair care routine can be hard. This is particularly true when you see brands like Goodie and Yao Secret with many types of combs and brushes.

We’ve created a helpful guide on wide-tooth combs and brushes so you can make the right decision for your hair.

Wide-Tooth Combs

Wide-tooth combs have wide gaps between their teeth. That’s where they get their name from.  If your hair’s prone to knots and tangles, one of these can help. You’ll never find anything that goes easier through your hair.

Brushes

A brush, unlike a comb, is full of bristles. The bristles come in many different materials and shapes.

Below are some of the tips that you’ll find helpful when you are choosing which tool you want to use on your hair.

Hair Type Considerations

We have a hair tools comparison to give you some help. But first, think about your hair. What type do you have?

• Straight/Fine Hair – Blessed with straight or fine hair? Look for a brush that has boar bristles. The brush helps to smooth your hair and distribute the oils, creating a sleek, stylish look.
• Curly/Wavy/Textured Hair – If your hair is curly, wavy, or textured, you may have a problem with tangles. The wide-toothed comb will help to detangle your hair without a lot of the pain that often comes with tangles. So, choose a wide-toothed comb, especially a wide-tooth comb for curly hair. But if you prefer a brush, look for wet detangling brushes.

Detangling

Wide-toothed combs and brushes can detangle your hair. Here are the benefits of using both for detangling your hair.

Wide Tooth Combs

• Detangles your hair gently
• Can use on thick/curly hair
• Hair can be dry or wet when using it
• Is great at reducing frizz
• Hair cuticles are protected

Brush 

• Good for straight hair
• Stimulates blood flow to the scalp to help your hair and scalp be healthier
• Helps add volume to your hair

Scalp Health

Are you concerned about your scalp’s health? Then you might love a brush specifically made for scalp health. The brush will stimulate blood flow. It’s also good for removing buildup of products from your hair and scalp.

Styling and Finishing

Many have found it’s helpful to use both a comb and a brush. If you get both a comb and a brush, you can benefit from both. The brush will add volume and smooth your hair, and you can use your comb for detangling.

When to Use Each Tool

So how do you know which tool you should use? Below, we will look at each tool and when it should be used.

Wide-Tooth Comb

• When detangling
• For distributing the product
• In curly hair
• In long and thick hair
• In wet hair

Brush

• For smoothing
• For adding volume
• To distributing oils
• In straight, untangled hair

Pros and Cons of Each Tool

Pros of a Wide-Tooth Comb

• It reduces the chance of damage and breakage in your hair
• It’s gentle for those with sensitive scalps
• Effective to detangle your hair
• Simple to clean due to its wide teeth

Cons of Wide-Toothed Combs

• It may not work for thin/fine hair
• Not as precise for certain tasks
• May make it hard to remove small knots

Pros of Brushes

• Great for effectively detangling and smoothing hair

• Help with creating shape, sleek styles, and volume, particularly when using heat tools.

• Stimulates the scalp and distributes oils

• Very versatile

Cons of Brushes

• Harder to clean
• Can cause damage
• Some lead to snagging and tugging

So, is a brush or a wide-toothed comb better for your hair and your hair care routine? For some people, combining the use of both tools is the perfect choice. That way, they get the gentle detangling of a wide-toothed comb and the smoothing power of a brush. The point is that it’s important to purchase a quality.

Did our hair tools comparison help you? Drop us a comment and tell us your thoughts!