Good Housekeeping's beauty experts provide the lowdown on which brushes are best for your hair type. For more tips on looking your best, visit www.goodhousekeeping.com.
CUSHION BRUSH
If you have straight or wavy hair of any length, stick with what's called a "cushion" brush. It's especially useful for everyday detangling and smoothing. Good Housekeeping recommends the Mason Pearson Junior Hair Brush ($92.50).
ROUND BRUSH
Want to straighten waves, add volume at the crown as you blow-dry and curl or bend the ends of your hair? Then invest in a round brush, which is good for all hair types. Best bet: the Marilyn 3-inch Double S Pro brush ($22.89).
THERMAL BRUSH
Also useful for all hair types, a thermal brush does a great job of producing long-lasting curls and body as you blow-dry. Keep in mind: The longer the hair, the larger a thermal brush you'll need. And, much like a curling iron, this tool can easily burn your strands. Good Housekeeping suggests the Ion Anti-Frizz Straight Ceramic Ionic Straightening Small Round Brush ($12.99).
VENT BRUSH
People with thick or coarse hair should use a vent brush. It lets you detangle and style with a dryer and it's also great for touching up short styles and flipping ends. A good and inexpensive one is the Goody Ouchless ComforTip Vent Brush ($9.99).
PADDLE BRUSH
All textures can use a paddle brush - but this type is especially useful if you have long, all-one-length hair. It produces a sleek, straight, static-free finish. An affordable favorite: Denman Large Paddle Cushion Brush ($9.99).
WHO SHOULDN'T BRUSH?
Curly and wavy hair is finer and more prone to cuticle damage than straight strands, said New Orleans dermatologist Mary Lupo, M.D. If you want straight hair, you can use the same tools as anyone else. But if you prefer spirals, don't let a brush get near them.
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