Many of us girls have had this dilemma before, especially curly girls like us. If it’s your first time maintaining your curly hair the right way, it could be pretty daunting. What should I do with my curly hair? Should I use something to keep my curls? Will combing my hair help? And, more importantly, should I brush it again after it dries?
In this article, we’ll hopefully answer your most daunting curly-hair-brushing questions. We’ll even drop in a few tips from our curly hair experts. But first, let’s figure out the difference between combing and brushing.
combing vs brushing: their differences and benefits
what’s the difference between combing and brushing?
Combing uses a comb, which is usually plastic or wood and made up of a single layer of prongs, also known as teeth. Its design makes it best for parting hair and avoiding static. However, combing involves a lot of patience. Take your time when using one to prevent the comb getting stuck in your hair.
A brush for brushing is a different matter. It has rows and rows of bristles. A good brush can handle a significant portion of hair with one swipe. Using one can be quicker than a comb when done correctly. It can also remove a lot of flakes from your curls if need be.
The Benefits of combing and brushing
A comb and a brush are both very useful tools for your hair. They work well on any hair type, depending on the kind. Each tool can help your hair avoid a tangled mess, and they have their own set of benefits as well.
| Benefits | Combing | Brushing |
| Detangles in a gentler way | Clears away loose hair | |
| Helps define curls and texture | Improves blood circulation | |
| Nips damage in the bud | Minimizes frizz and friction | |
| Spreads product evenly | Promotes proper scalp health | |
| Styles all hair types | Smoothens out tangles | |
| Spreads the hair’s natural oils |
Can You Brush Your Curly Hair?
Yes, you can, within reason. The uncertainty of whether brushing curly hair is a good idea essentially came from the misconception regarding the differences in hair type. Yes, straight hair and curly hair are different. However, they are both still types of hair.
Brushing can be beneficial but, as mentioned before, with a bit of prep. It’s always better to have the right tools for the job, like using a wide-toothed comb or a detangling brush.
When and how often Should You Brush Your Curly Hair?
It’s best to brush your curly hair right before and/or after washing. A gentle detangling before a shower should remove buildup. And then with copious amounts of curl cream or other moisture-enhancing products after you wash. In this way, you can remove the tangles without compromising your hair’s integrity.
As for how often, you don’t need to brush your curly hair every day. Ideally, a good detangling one-two (1-2) times a week or on wash days should suffice for all curly hair types.
Why does when you brush your curly hair matters
It matters because of timing. In comparison with straight hair, dry brushing hair is more prone to damage than brushing while it’s wet. Wet hair can still be prone to damage since it’s more elastic. Hence, there’s a need to add a layer of curl-friendly hair care products like leave-in conditioners and such.
Should You Brush Your Curly Hair After It Dries?
Essentially, no, you shouldn’t. Gentle detangling before a shower should work. But again, it’s better to keep your comb away from your curly hair long after a shower. In fact, too much brushing, or overbrushing, may lead to your curls flying away from you every chance they get.
Overbrushing: What is it and what are its signs
What is Overbrushing?
Overbrushing is brushing your hair too often, too much, or too hard. It could also be all three at once, depending on the hair type. For example, straight hair can handle daily brushing, but more fragile types like curly hair can’t.
The Signs of Overbrushing
Do you have a feeling that you might be overdoing it in the brushing department? Here are the main markers you should look out for.
- Your scalp feels sore or sensitive
Brushing your hair shouldn’t hurt. It should almost feel like a massage for your scalp. Some brush bristles might be too hard for you, so maybe test them out first. Don’t put too much pressure on the brush either. You’re overdoing it a bit if your head feels raw.
- Your hair is frizzy
Overbrushing can dehydrate your curls pretty fast. You can tell when your hair frizzes up in places. Use a bit of hair oil or other moisture-rich products for any dryness.
- Your curls have split ends and breakage
And lastly, having split ends might mean you’re overbrushing your hair. You can tell if you notice a bunch of broken bits of hair on your clothes. It also breaks up your curls more easily. Do you want to keep your curls intact? Know why first.
How Your Curly Hair Keeps Its Shape
The magic of curly hair is at its peak when it can hold its shape. That’s how you see each curl set and ready. Despite what many of you think, your hair can’t do this all on its own. There is a science to your curly hair. Here are the facts, or more like factors, that keep your curls looking as tight as they can get.
- Making It Static-Free
Even with something as inanimate as hair, it can still hold a charge. In fact, they just sit there, and they’re not going anywhere. With dry hair and a brush, things get more interesting (and frizzy!).
Every swipe of your comb sucks up the electrons in your hair, causing unnecessary friction and static. It leaves your hair positively charged and repellent to one another. That’s why dry brushing your curly hair creates a lot of flyaways.
- Using a Bonding Agent
Your curls stay definite and together with a bit of help. Your scalp works wonders, producing what we call sebum. This acts as a natural protectant, keeping your hair hydrated and together.
If you’re looking for more ways to keep your curls tight and fresh, you can try hair oils, creams, and mousses. They’ll keep the moisture in for you. Just not too much or your hair will feel too greasy.
Brushing properly can distribute the oils in your hair. The problem with over-brushing is its persistence in stripping away your hair’s natural and store-bought oils. Hold back on the frizz by avoiding combing your hair too much.
- Keeping Hair Cuticles Healthy
The cuticle is the outer part of your hair strand, shielding the rest from breakage and the like. Healthy hair cuticles are a curly girl’s best friend. Brushing too much, however, is not.
Over-brushing can damage the precious outermost layer of your hair, leading to more frizz and less defined curls. Over time, it can also lead to cracks and eventual split ends, making your hair so easy to break.
What Should I Do for My Curly Hair Instead?
Now that you know what not to do with your curly hair, we can show what’s next. Basically, what you should do with your curls instead. The best thing you can do is to detangle them. Curls are more vulnerable to tangles and knots than any other hair type.
Another way is to establish your curly hair routine to a T. Lucky for you, we have curly hair care down as a science on our website. Check out this article and many more from our website for your best hair day today!
