Best brushes and combs for curly hair
Updated: 31/07/2026
Detangling curly hair can be a nightmare, especially if you don't have the right tool to hand. Detangling with care is key when it comes to curly hair, so you need to make sure you have the right brush or comb for the job. Scrap that, for curly hair, you need to have the BEST brushes and combs for the job.
Curls are more prone to breakage than other hair types, and they're most vulnerable when wet. If your hair isn't growing, the problem could actually be the way you're detangling your hair. It certainly was for me.
If you're dragging a brush through your hair like there's no tomorrow, your ends can snap off. If you're doing this long term, it'll give you the illusion that your hair isn't growing, when in fact, it is, you're just struggling to retain the length. On average, your hair will grow 1/2 an inch per month, so it should be getting longer as the months go by. If you're guilty of careless detangling, don't worry, we're here to help. Before we even get into the best brushes and combs for curly hair, there's something you should know first...
The Three Detangling Commandments:
1. Detangle with your fingers first
This first step is key, detangling with your fingers first is the best way to deal with any knots. You can be more careful with your hands and separate these tangles, rather than breaking the hair.
2. Never detangle dry hair
This one's easy to remember. Think of this step like Never Eat Shredded Wheat, but instead it's NDDH. Curly hair can be difficult to detangle on the best of days, but you're asking for trouble if you try to do it when your hair is dry. You'll have a much better time with wet hair, saturated with a high slip product, like a leave-in conditioner.
Recommended Retail Price: £25.50Current price: £20.40
Recommended Retail Price: £17.50Current price: £14.00
3. Always take your time
This one seems obvious, but you should never detangle your hair in a rush. Not only does this lead to frustration, it also causes breakage. Taking out the time to detangle, or only detangling when you actually have the time, can transform your experience. It turns the process into a pleasure, rather than a chore. Put on your favourite song and belt your heart out, pop on a face mask while you detangle - whatever you do, make sure you take your time and have some fun.
Now, it's time to meet the best brushes and combs for curly hair:
1. Denman D3 Medium Classic Styling Brush
£12.00
2. Tangle Teezer Wide Tooth Comb - Lilac/Black
£14.00
3. Denman D81S Small Finishing Brush with Mixed Bristle
£15.00
4. Cantu Thick Detangle Sturdy Wash Day Comb
£4.50
Created for thick, textured hair, the Cantu Sturdy Wash Day Comb features wide-set teeth that work through curls and coils without disrupting their natural pattern. The easy-grip handle offers added control as you detangle and distribute conditioner through wet strands. Start at the ends, then gradually work upwards towards the roots.
5. Tangle Teezer The Ultimate Detangler Brush - Millennial Pink
Our team of beauty experts cover everything from makeup to skincare, picking out the most effective products from the best brands and latest trends. Stay up to date on everything beauty with the LOOKFANTASTIC blog, and find all your essentials in one place.
