The Basics of Brush Types
When it comes to styling your hair, choosing the right brush is just as important as picking the right heat setting on your styling tools. The two most typical brushes you’ll find in people’s beauty kits are paddle brushes and round brushes. Although they appear similar in form, they offer distinct functionality for working with various hair textures and lengths. Here we attempt to break down the key variations between paddle and round brushes, along with the best application for achieving certain hair looks.
The Advantages of Using a Paddle Brush
The plate-like shape of a paddle brush makes it ideal for anyone with medium to long hair length because it covers large sections of hair in one pass. Paddle brushes are ideal for detangling hair before heating with hot tools since their shape allows for gentle smoothing through wet or dry hair, minimizing breakage. The wide surface is great for massaging the scalp and dissipating all-natural oils through the hair, producing a natural shine while reducing frizz.
The Advantages of Using a Round Brush
The rounded shape of a round brush forms more curls in the hair than a flat paddle brush. The bristles are closer together than in a paddle brush, enabling more hair to be pulled in during each rotation. A round brush produces more tension than a flat brush, creating the perfect environment for straightening or curling hair while styling. The advantage of a round brush comes in the size and strategy of the barrel; smaller barrels result in more C-Curve curls, while larger barrels produce beachy loose waves.
Different Hair Goals Need Different Brush Types
The results you seek to achieve will determine the type of brush you will want to use. If you’re searching for a failed blowout look or want to straighten your hair, opt for a paddle brush. For a smooth blowout sequence with a polished finish, a round brush is the way to proceed. Those with thinner hair types may want to start with a smaller round brush for more definition in curls, while those with thick hair or looking for more voluminous curls may want to use a larger round brush.
Important Tips for Hairbrushes
A high-quality brush is an investment in the health of your hair and scalp. A brush with natural bristles generates less static than one with synthetic bristles, resulting in less frizziness in the hair. You should also aim to wash your brushes once a week to prevent product buildup and germs leading to damage or breakouts. Brush hygiene is crucial to avoid unwanted contamination and is a step most people usually neglect.
