Hair brushing or combing is an essential part of a hair care regime that should not be underestimated. Irrespective of the weather conditions, regular grooming is crucial to maintain healthy, lustrous hair. Beyond its cosmetic advantages, combing has remarkable benefits for promoting hair growth. However, it is important to understand the right brushes and techniques suitable for your specific hair type in order to maximize the benefits and minimize breakage. Let us take a look at the benefits of combing hair regularly and how to comb hair to promote growth.
Combing hair benefits
Hair brushing or combing is a very important part of your hair care regimen, regardless of the weather. It is crucial to groom your hair to keep it healthy and lustrous. Health Shots reached out to Dr Pallavi Sule, a Mumbai based Dermatologist and Aesthetic Physician, to know the benefits of combing hair regularly.
* Combing hair the right way stimulates the capillaries of the scalp, improving blood circulation and allowing more nutrients to reach the hair bulbs. This enhanced oxygenation promotes better hair growth.
* It helps exfoliate the scalp by clearing out dead cells. By combing your hair twice a day, you can effectively remove dead hair from the scalp, creating space for new hair to grow out of the follicles. This regular practice aids in maintaining a healthy scalp and promotes the growth of new, strong strands.
* Combing hair activates the sebaceous glands, ensuring the even distribution of oil along the hair shaft. This natural oil, called sebum, nourishes the hair and keeps it moisturized.
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It is clear that regular hair combing offers numerous benefits for hair health and growth. Therefore, it is recommended to incorporate this simple yet effective practice into your daily hair care routine.
How to comb your hair properly for hair growth
Combing your hair properly is essential for maintaining its health and promoting growth. Follow these steps to ensure you comb your hair effectively and minimize breakage:
1. Select a comb or brush suitable for your hair type. Options include wide-tooth combs for detangling wet hair, paddle brushes for smoothing and styling, and fine-tooth combs for precision.
2. Before you begin combing, ensure your hair is clean and free from any styling products. If your hair is wet, gently towel dry it or let it air dry partially before combing.
3. If you have dry or frizzy hair, consider applying a small amount of hair serum or leave-in conditioner to add moisture and make combing easier. Pay special attention to the tips and middle sections of your hair.
4. Regardless of whether your hair is wet or dry, always start combing from the ends, not the roots. This approach prevents excessive pulling, reduces breakage and hair loss.
5. If you have thick or long hair, divide it into sections to make combing more manageable. Start with one section at a time, combing through each section thoroughly before moving on to the next.
6. Once you’ve combed through the ends, gradually work your way upwards, combing through small sections at a time. This approach helps prevent tangles and minimizes breakage.
7. When you come across a stubborn knot, gently hold the hair right above the knot and carefully untangle it using either a comb or your fingers. Avoid forcefully pulling on the knot, as this can lead to breakage.
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Combing tips for different hair types
1. How to comb wet hair
Wet hair tends to be more fragile and prone to breakage. “To minimize the risk of damage, begin by applying a hair serum or detangling spray that aids in gentle removal of tangles. Use your fingers to work through the knots before transitioning to a wide-tooth comb,” says Dr Sule. Begin detangling from the tips and gradually work your way up to the roots. The expert also suggests opting for a wooden comb can be beneficial, as it provides a smoother and gentler experience.
2. How to comb dry or frizzy hair
“For dry or frizzy hair, it is advisable to use a hair leave-on serum or a small amount of hair cream to seal the cuticles and minimize frizz,” says Dr Sule. She further advises that once you’ve applied the product, choose a paddle brush to help defrizz and smooth out the hair. Remember to start brushing from the ends and work your way up, rather than starting directly from the roots to reduce breakage.
3. How to comb thick hair
Those blessed with thick hair and a high density should opt for a paddle brush. “The wide surface area and sturdy bristles of a paddle brush help to effectively detangle and manage thick hair,” says Dr Sule. Regular combing assists in keeping thick hair in good condition and prevents tangling, which can lead to breakage.
The frequency of hair combing may vary depending on individual factors such as hair length, texture, and density. According to Dr Sule, brushing your hair at least twice a day helps maintain optimal hair health and adds to its luster.
Remember, combing should be a gentle and nurturing process. Take care to be patient, and focus on maintaining the health and integrity of your hair. By following these steps, you’ll promote hair growth, minimize breakage, and enjoy the benefits of a well-groomed and lustrous mane.
