Best brushes and combs for curly hair

Detangling curly hair can be a nightmare, especially if you don't have the right tool to hand. Detangling with care is key when it comes to curly hair, so you need to make sure you have the right brush or comb for the job. Scrap that, for curly hair, you need to have the BEST brushes and combs for the job.

Curls are more prone to breakage than other hair types, and they're most vulnerable when wet. If your hair isn't growing, the problem could actually be the way you're detangling your hair. It certainly was for me.

If you're dragging a brush through your hair like there's no tomorrow, your ends can snap off. If you're doing this long term, it'll give you the illusion that your hair isn't growing, when in fact, it is, you're just struggling to retain the length. On average, your hair will grow 1/2 an inch per month, so it should be getting longer as the months go by. If you're guilty of careless detangling, don't worry, we're here to help. Before we even get into the best brushes and combs for curly hair, there's something you should know first...

The Three Detangling Commandments:

1. Detangle with your fingers first

This first step is key, detangling with your fingers first is the best way to deal with any knots. You can be more careful with your hands and separate these tangles, rather than breaking the hair.

2. Never detangle dry hair

This one's easy to remember. Think of this step like Never Eat Shredded Wheat, but instead it's NDDH. Curly hair can be difficult to detangle on the best of days, but you're asking for trouble if you try to do it when your hair is dry. You'll have a much better time with wet hair, saturated with a high slip product, like a leave-in conditioner.

OUAI Leave In Conditioner 140ml

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Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Yogurt Hydrate & Repair Multi-Action Leave-In Conditioner 237ml

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3. Always take your time

This one seems obvious, but you should never detangle your hair in a rush. Not only does this lead to frustration, it also causes breakage. Taking out the time to detangle, or only detangling when you actually have the time, can transform your experience. It turns the process into a pleasure, rather than a chore. Put on your favourite song and belt your heart out, pop on a face mask while you detangle - whatever you do, make sure you take your time and have some fun.

1. Denman D3 Medium Classic Styling Brush

Denman D3 Medium Classic Styling Brush

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£11.00

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The infamous Denman brush has to top the charts when it comes to the best brushes and combs for curly hair. If you've ever been to an afro hair salon, you'll have seen many of these lying around. Or, you'll have faint memories of your aunty using one to do your hair, while you sat between her knees and pouted. The reason why this brush is such a fan-favourite is in the design. First of all, the shape. The brush is ergonomically designed so that it won't fly out of your hair every time you get past a knot. What's more, the long bristles (which are excellent for moving through thick, afro hair) have perfectly round ends, meaning they won't get caught in your curls. This brush has stood the test of time, and the glowing reviews on our site reflect that.

2. So Eco Tail Comb

So Eco Tail Comb

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Now, if you're wanting to mix things up and try some braids or cornrows, you'll need this trusty tool in your hand. Tail combs are the best way to get sharp, clean sections in your hair, so that people will think you've had your styles done professionally. In my opinion, every curly girl needs one of these in her bathroom, especially when it comes to winter. When the temperatures start to drop, you'll need to start putting in protective styles to ward off breakage. Then, your hair can emerge safely in summer, looking long and lovely.

3. Denman D81S Small Finishing Brush with Mixed Bristle

Denman D81S Small Finishing Brush with Mixed Bristle

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Take any updo to the next level with the Denman D81S Small Finishing Brush with Mixed Bristle. Crafted from natural fibres, the super-soft bristles instantly smooth frizz and flyways to give you the sleekest finish. The brush even has an air-cushioned pad, so the shape can adapt to the contour of your head - that's some serious technology! What's more, this brush was specifically designed with curly and coily hair types in mind, detailed with bristles soft enough for our delicate edges.

4. BaByliss Diamond Detangle Comb

BaByliss Diamond Detangle Comb

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This simple classic is best for those who have especially delicate hair. Combs are the closest thing to finger detangling, but they help you get through your hair in half the time. If you come across any knots, you'll know it in an instant, because the comb will get stuck and you'll have to stop. This is great for curly hair, as it forces you to go slow, helping you to sidestep any potential breakage. This brush is also designed with a high-grip handle, which is always important for us curly girls and guys.

5. Tangle Teezer The Ultimate Detangler Brush - Millennial Pink

Tangle Teezer The Ultimate Detangler Brush - Millennial Pink

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Next up is the Tangle Teezer The Ultimate Detangler Brush. Specialising in detangling products, this brand knows a thing or two about dealing with knots. The brush features 325 teeth, which help to carefully detangle the tresses, rather than snagging your hair. This brush is specifically designed for wet hair, which is more fragile and prone to breaking. Separate the hair into four sections before you even start brushing, detangling only small areas at a time.