Each morning, amidst the routines of showering, brushing your teeth, and perhaps, adding a touch of makeup (especially during the pre-pandemic times), there’s one essential step for Zoom calls: brushing your hair. While you’ve been trained to replace your toothbrush every three months, have you ever wondered about hairbrush care and when to replace it? Dive in to discover the significance of proper hairbrush care.
Knowing When It’s Time to Replace Your Hairbrush
Generally, if you’re using an affordable hairbrush, consider updating it every six to twelve months. However, if you invest in premium brushes and focus on hairbrush care, they can grace your dressing table for many years. Several elements determine the lifespan of your brush, including your hair’s texture, the brush’s design, and the regularity of its cleaning.
Surprisingly, the wrong brush selection based on your hair type can reduce its longevity. For instance, individuals with thick or curly locks might find their brushes wearing out faster.
An aged, grimy, or deteriorating brush isn’t just an eyesore on your dressing table. Gerard Cunningham, an esteemed retired cosmetologist and master colorist from Atlanta, warns that such brushes can lead to split ends and hair damage. Moreover, brushes laden with greasy residue can make freshly cleaned hair appear dull and heavy.
More alarmingly, a neglected hairbrush can become a breeding ground for mold, yeast, and bacteria. The last thing you want is to reintroduce these unwanted elements back onto your scalp, potentially triggering dandruff, itching, or redness.
Mastering Hairbrush Care
To enhance your hairbrush’s longevity and maintain your hair’s health:
- Post-use care: After each brushing session, ensure you rid the bristles of trapped hair.
- Weekly cleanse: Dedicate time once a week for hairbrush care by cleaning it. Use a clarifying shampoo or a baking soda solution, coupled with a toothbrush, especially if you notice product accumulation.
However, if hairbrush care isn’t your forte and you’re seeking an obvious sign to replace it, inspect the bristles. If they appear bent, detached, melted, or are simply falling off, it’s time for a new brush. As for combs, be on the lookout for missing tines, built-up residue, or any signs of degradation.
In essence, giving your hairbrush the care it deserves not only ensures you always look your best but also keeps those hair and scalp issues at bay. Adopt these hairbrush care tips, and your tresses will thank you!
