A hairbrush is a small brush with rigid bristles used in hair care for brushing, styling, and detangling human hair, or for brushing a domestic animal's fur. The earliest US patent for a modern hairbrush was by Hugh Rock in 1854 (US Design Patent #D645). A brush with elastic wire teeth along with natural bristles was patented by Samuel Firey in 1870 as U.S. Patent 106,680.
Grooming
A brush is typically used on longer hair, while a comb is normally used on shorter hair, but can be still used for short hair. A flat brush is normally used for detangling neat and tidy hair, after a sleep; a round brush for styling and curling hair, especially by a professional stylist, and with a blowdryer. A paddle brush is used to straighten hair, but not all work, they are usually used on untidy unkept hair. A hairbrush is also useful in removing loose hairs, and in increasing circulation to the scalp. The brushing of a domestic animal's fur is often perceived as a mark of affection and/or a bonding experience, which can have a soothing effect, e.g. making a cat purr. Special brushes are made for cats and dogs. For an equine's tougher hair, a curry-comb is used.
Types
These four different brushes are used for different types of hair:
- Flat Brush- used to straighten tidy and neat hair and gives a professional look
- Paddle Brush- used for untidy and unkempt hair which is hard to manage
- Round Brush- used for neat hair, the brush curls the hair
- Comb- usually used by men, but it can be useful for anyone with short hair.
