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Natural-bristle brushes are softer than their synthetic counterparts and often more expensive. Usually made with boar bristles, they help to smooth the hair’s cuticles and distribute natural oils, so they’re best used for grooming, rather than detangling. Gentle on your hair, they’re suitable for all hair types: straight, wavy and curly.

Brushes with synthetic bristles are harder on hair, so they’re great for detangling knots, especially if your tresses are thick. Mixed-bristle brushes team natural and synthetic materials, combining the former’s shine-enhancing benefits with the latter’s knot-busting powers.