How easy is brushing hair?

Simple, right? You do it every morning…

Same technique, same tool…

But what if I told you…

You've been doing it wrong your whole life?

Sounds kind of silly? Hear me out…

There might be a BETTER brush you're unaware of…

that could breed a hairstyle that gives you more confidence…

It's possible – with the right info.

This article has everything you need to know about men's hair, hairbrushes & hair styling products.





Part 1 – Men's Hair Types & Anatomy

What's the first step to knowing which men's hairbrush to use? It's understanding the science of hair itself (particularly hair follicles).

Hair Anatomy – Shaft, Follicle Shapes & Sizes

Every piece of hair on your scalp has two major parts: the shaft and the follicle. The shaft is the flowing strand that's seen on your head. But the follicle is the part which stays within the dermis (or skin) of your scalp.

The average hair is about 50-70 microns in diameter. Compare that to the diameter of fine beach sand (90 microns) and you can imagine how insignificant a shaft of hair feels when you press it between your thumb and index finger!

But since the human head has an average of 100,000 hairs – the smallest differences in diameter can become a big deal when you examine hair as a whole.

As you'll find out below, hair shafts vary not just in terms of diameter but also their shape – whether it's straight, S-, E- or Z-shaped. And that will reflect on your own hair type and texture as you let your hair grow longer.

But what's the main cause of how your natural hair turns out? It really boils down to the structure of your hair follicles (something you can't see with the naked eye).

A hair follicle has one of the following shapes which determines its hair type/texture:

Round – Straight hair

Slightly less round – Wavy hair

Oval/Elliptical – Curly hair (specifically coiled or kinky)

And the follicle's actual size directly affects the thickness:

Larger round/oval shape – Thick hair (most likely straight thick or coiled)

Smaller round/oval shape – Thin hair (most likely straight thin, wavy or kinky)

Using all that info above, you'll be able to pinpoint what your real hair type is. Now here's a further breakdown of the five major categories of men's hair type:

Men's Hair Types

Straight Thin Hair

When it comes to straight hair in general, there's a 3-inch rule: if your hair doesn’t bend within the first 3 inches of length from the scalp, it's straight.

Here are some details that distinguish thin straight hair from its thick counterpart:

Thin straight hair has a more fragile texture, which means it has to be brushed more carefully.

It's more lightweight and tends to fall flat over your head.

There's more difficulty in increasing its volume (which is why some men choose a side part hairstyle to shape it up).

It can get weighed down by hair products, causing the strands to look stringy.

It's more prone to becoming oily.

Straight Thick Hair

These are the key points about thick straight hair that separate it from its thin equivalent:

Thick straight hair covers the scalp better.

It contains all 3 hair layers – the cortex, cuticle & medulla – which means it takes more time to dry up.

The texture isn't as fragile as thin straight hair, so it can be styled in different ways more easily.

It may be resistant to certain chemical treatments/relaxers or hair coloring.

It can have more volume if layered correctly by a stylist

It tolerates heat better

Wavy Hair

This category refers to the wave-like patterns created by slightly curving hair. The hair shafts do NOT coil up within the first 3 inches of length. Instead, they resemble loose and stretched out S-shapes.

You can grow out wavy hair to resemble a mini lion's mane and enjoy plenty of texture. However – this will require more maintenance.

One advantage of this hair type is flexibility – it can be styled in several different ways. It's also less likely to be tousled by the wind than straight hair is. But it also frizzes easily, so it's important that you maintain the waves.

Coiled Hair (Curly With Large Curls)

Large curls require that the shafts create very distinct S-shapes (the more extreme ones being E-shapes) within the first 2 inches from the scalp. People with coiled hair are blessed with lots of coverage over the head.

There are guys who get to grow their hair out and become a “white boy ‘fro.” They don't have to resort to the same fancy styles that straight-haired men use to add volume.

The actual hair strands here can either be coarse or fine (although it's more often fine). Coarse strands are more prone to frizziness while with fine strands, it's harder to create well-defined curls.

Kinky Hair (Curly With Tight Curls)

This is the most textured hair type. Its coiled intervals are so short that the shafts form sharp Z-shaped twists (hence “kinky”). These twists form within the first half-inch of length from the scalp.

Kinky hair is most commonly found in men of African descent. The hair can be grown into a classic Afro and gain lots of volume. You can also choose to shave it off and make it a fade cut.

The downside is these coils aren’t as well-defined as large curls, due to their naturally short state. They require much more maintenance since they can look fuzzy and unkempt after some time. Dryness and shrinkage may also be serious problems if you're not careful.

Part 2 – Lengths Of Men's Hair

Length pertains to the “extended length” when a strand is flattened and extended from the scalp. It’s important just to know your category/range instead of the exact number.

You'll need a ruler or measuring tape to figure out the exact length of your hair. If you decide to grow it out for a few months, you have to re-measure and see if it has moved up a category.

Short

Short-length hair ranges from 0.125 to 2 inches (any length under 0.125 inches would qualify as near-shaved). It’s most preferred by coiled- and kinky-haired men since they're easier to keep under control.

Medium

Medium-length hair covers anything between 2 and 6 inches. It allows for more elaborate hairstyles but it also affects styling convenience. Medium straight hair tends to hang down at the upper range (4-6 inches), while non-straight medium hair doesn't.

Long

If the hair goes beyond 6 inches, it counts as long. This is where straight hair gains a lot of natural volume, while curly hair starts hanging down. It's the least popular length though – especially for straight-haired men (due to strands being blown around).

Part 3 – Understanding Men's Hair Brushes

Choosing the right hair brush can solve different problems your hair might face, or even prevent them from happening at all. That's why you need to start by knowing the anatomy of a brush.

As shown above, each hair brush type (with detailed descriptions found in Part 4) is totally dependent on the 3 major parts.

–

Hair Brush Shape

Oval hairbrushes are usually the oval version of the Paddle brush, which does a fantastic job in massaging your scalp and redistributing hair oils.

Rectangle hairbrushes range from the Denman brush or Vented brush to the thinner, rectangular kind of Paddle brush. All of these can create more volume at the roots, flip up the hair or curl it under.

Square hairbrushes are basically the original Paddle brushes (as they resemble paddles). They're useful in getting rid of frizz or tangles without putting much pressure on the hair.

hairbrushes are basically the original Paddle brushes (as they resemble paddles). They're useful in getting rid of frizz or tangles without putting much pressure on the hair. Round hairbrushes have either natural or synthetic bristles all over the head. When partnered with a blow dryer, they work great for shaping your hair into multiple styles. But they also come in various sizes – compatible for tight curls or even long waves – so choose the brush size carefully based on your hair length.

Top 3 Go-To Hair Brushes For Men

Now it's time to discuss the different men's hairbrushes that you'll find useful nowadays. First, there are 3 go-to brushes that work extremely well. For guys who aren't sure which one to try – The ones shown below are a great starting point.

Part 4 – Each Type Of Men's Hair Brush

Below are the other men's hairbrush types which are worth considering. Each one of them has its own set of advantages.

Pocket Comb

I love how simple yet effective the pocket comb is. The teeth are closely packed together, allowing it to evenly distribute moisture or product all over the hair.

Smaller versions can grab at the roots better, which makes it easier to smooth the hair out or style some bangs. This comb also helps if you use any medication for your scalp.

Best for: Thick Short Straight Hair

Rectangle Brush

This is a less common form of the paddle brush with a longer and narrower head.

Best for all hair types

Vented Brush

This is an all-purpose type of hairbrush. It styles your hair without flattening its shape or hindering the texture. It's a great choice for adding more volume.

The bristles are flexible, widely spaced and they pass through the hair smoothly. Holes are included along the backside to allow more airflow. These so-called vents speed up the drying process while heat from the blow dryer targets the hair from different angles.

Best for: Thin/Thick Straight Hair (any length), Wavy Hair (any length), Coiled Hair (any length)

Military Palm Brush

If you want ultimate control whenever you brush your hair, this is the type for you. It's usually made of nylon bristles that efficiently detangle and smooth the hair.

There's a durable strap on the back that helps keep your hand stable as you move it around. It only takes a couple of strokes – going in the direction of the hair growth – to fix up your hair fully.

Best for: Thin Short Straight Hair, Short Wavy Hair, Coiled Hair (any length), Kinky Hair

Wide-Tooth Comb

This comb has a row of teeth which are more widely spaced than the average comb or pocket comb.

The material is normally wood or plastic, but wooden combs are better in distributing oil/product evenly without causing static.

It runs through the hair smoothly, making it easier to detangle strands.

It doesn't require much pulling on wet hair, so there is less risk of damage.

Best for thin/thick short straight hair, kinky hair and coiled hair (any length).

Oval Brush

This is an oval version of the paddle brush, with bristles that are more tightly packed.

Best for wavy hair (any length) and coiled hair (any length).

Paddle Brush

This brush effectively flattens out frizz, adds more shine and massages the scalp.

The bristles emerge from a soft rubber cushion that makes them collapse as they touch the scalp – preventing hair from getting split or stretched out.

The tips are designed to minimize scalp damage or hair snagging.

It's recommended that you use it before flat ironing.

Best for thin/thick long straight hair.

Round Brush

This cylinder-shaped hairbrush comes in different sizes (smaller ones form tighter curls) and bristle types.

A round metal barrel (which contains the bristles) gives it a more defined movement.

The handle comes in a variety of grips that provide traction.

It's useful for styles in which the strands have to bend more.

It’s perfect for men who want to fix up their curls or wavy patterns.

Denman Brush

This men's hairbrush is also known as the classic styling brush.

The head is designed to bend the hair slightly while you're brushing it.

There are traditionally 5, 7 or 9 rows of bristles in order to undo all tangles.

It does a great job in redistributing oil – adding more shine to your hair.

Best for short-haired guys who want their hair to appear slightly thicker.

Hair Pick

This is a flat, squarish comb that's equipped with long teeth and a handle along the midpoint.

It's useful for styling/grooming longer hair.

Best for kinky hair.

Foldable Comb

This comb is exactly what the name describes – foldable. The teeth are spaced together tightly.

The handle also functions as a casing, which comes in handy if you want to take the comb with you to groom your hair throughout the day.

Best for thin straight hair.

Hair Brush Sponge

This is a specialized men's hairbrush made of high-quality, spongy material.

It's meant to run through the hair in small circular motions with a light touch.

Tiny holes are designed to ensure ideal spacing between each of the twists of your hair.

It must be used on hair that's a little damp (using either water or gel).

Best for kinky hair.

Part 5 – Hair Brush Bristle Types

Here's a breakdown of the different types of hairbrush bristles and the benefits of each one.

Nylon

This type works best on hair with less texture.

The stiffness allows your hair to be molded into the exact style you want.

Round plastic tips help stimulate blood flow to the scalp in order to combat dandruff.

It's useful for gentle brushing along the edges (but not ideal for tangle-free hair).

Wooden

This type helps naturally condition the hair by evenly transporting the oils all over it.

The bristles are durable but run through the hair gently (without producing static).

Since they're wider, there's less chance of breaking off strands of hair while brushing.

The bristles also function like “massaging fingers” and help increase circulation on the scalp.

Comb Teeth

The teeth of a comb are designed to make pulling, styling and parting the hair much easier.

They effectively divide the hair into sections, and a real hairbrush can be used to finish the job.

They're great for removing stubborn knots or tangles.

Boars Hair

Natural boar bristles help replenish the oils on all areas of the scalp.

Compared to other types, it pulls through coarse hair seamlessly – reducing frizz and improving texture overall.

It works great for many different hairstyles, hair types, and textures.

Mixed Bristle

This bristle type is for hybrid hairbrushes (also known as porcupine brushes).

It combines boar and nylon bristles to get rid of all tangled, coarse strands of hair.

Part 6 – Men's Hair Products

This is a guide to the different hair products that you may want to use together with your brush. Some of these will work better on certain hair types or lengths. Check this infographic to find out how much hold & shine each product has.

Men's Hair Cream

Cream or creme is an excellent choice for hair that’s dry and coarse. A natural men's hair creme contains natural oils to undo fluffs or frizzes. It fixes the hair without that stiff or greasy feeling – making it stronger, shinier and more flexible.

Best for: Thin/Thick Short Straight Hair, Wavy Hair (any length), Coiled Hair (any length)

Men's Pomade

Pomade is a shining ointment that comes from mineral oil. It doesn’t harden up like gel, and it's creamier than wax. The hold can be anywhere from medium to light-hard – so it’s perfect for keeping the strands neatly clumped together. Guys who want a “bed head” look can also use a natural pomade for men to make the hair messier.

Best for: Thin Short Straight Hair

Men's Hair Clay

Clay works like pomade, except that it's stickier. It enhances wavy strands without weighing the hair down. It contains nutrients that nourish both the hair and scalp. Clay also cleans out dirt without drying out natural oils. Furthermore, it combats frizzy strands.

Best for: Short Wavy Hair

Paste

Paste is most compatible with larger hair curls. It's usually water-based and easy to wash. It gives the hair a good amount of flexibility. When blow-dried thoroughly, it adds volume and definition to your curls. The hair ends up looking shinier.

Best for: Short/Long Coiled Hair

Wax

Wax functions similarly to gel, except it’s more pliable. You can touch or make adjustments to your hair once it's been applied. It can add a good amount of volume to short haircuts. It's also useful spikes or any combed back style like the pompadour. However, it’s not recommended for curls.

Best for: Thick Short Straight Hair

Mousse

Volume is the primary goal of mousse. The foamy substance surrounds every strand with polymers to create a fuller look. As a result – the hair becomes thicker-looking (especially if mousse is applied at the roots and blow-dried right after). There is no residue or flakes left behind.

Best for: Thin/Thick Long Straight Hair

Lotion

Hair lotion rehydrates and repairs damaged hair. It contains keratin and panthenol which prevents the strands from breaking off or over-drying. It finishes up the hair with more shine and softness.

Best for: Thin/Thick Long Straight Hair, Long Wavy Hair

VITAMAN's range of men's natural hair products are free from harmful artificial ingredients and synthetic chemicals and won't flake throughout the day. They're also water soluble – meaning they wash out easily at the end of your day.

Part 7 – Using Shampoo Vs. Conditioner

You hear these two products all the time. But some men don't understand how they're different – or which one they ought to use and how often. So if you desire hair that can be brushed easily and fluidly, take note of these points:

Men's Shampoo

It rids your hair of unwanted substances like dirt or pollen.

The formula is 70-80% water and may contain detergents, foam-creating ingredients, plus some conditioning agents or thickeners.

You should NOT use shampoo every day – every 2-3 days is ideal.

Avoid changing shampoos and stick to what works (because your hair isn't able to tell brands apart and may become intolerant of a new product).

Always use a natural men's shampoo – avoid those with artificial ingredients because these can dry your hair and scalp.

Men's Conditioner

It's specifically designed to strengthen and moisturize hair. But it's also a reliable cleaner during the times you don't use shampoo.

Most conditioners contain proteins, oils from fruits or herbs, small amounts of glycerin or similar compounds, and silicon/mineral oils (to soften the hair further).

Frequency of use depends on how healthy your hair already is. Men with smooth and shiny hair can skip conditioning for a day or two.

It's completely fine to use conditioner once a day in the shower – as it prevents breakage and friction when you brush your hair later on.

later on. Remember to go for a natural men's hair conditioner so as not to dry your hair and scalp (the exact opposite of what you want!)

That last point about conditioner says it all. For guys who don't want frizzy hair or to experience pain while brushing – they need the right natural conditioner more than they need shampoo (settle for a mild shampoo that does a decent job).

Part 8 – Dry Vs. Wet Styling

This section is about comparing the two major ways of styling your hair.



When Wet Styling Is Better

In wet styling – the hair is ideally damp (not soaking wet or straight from the shower). The moisture works to your advantage when your hair has a ton of curls or coils. The benefits are as follows:

Wet styling lessens the amount of fuzz (especially for tightly coiled hair).

It allows your fingers or the hairbrush to run through the hair more smoothly.

It lubricates the hair so that the product is spread more evenly.

It gives the hair a fuller and smoother appearance.

You end up using less product (and saving more money) since it's been used more efficiently.

When Dry Styling Is Better

For guys with straight or longer hair, dry styling is more appropriate for these situations: