When was the last time you washed your hairbrush? If you’re like many people the answer is probably never, and you probably didn’t even know that you’re supposed to. But have you ever taken a really close look down at those bristles? If you haven’t, go do it now. Gross, right? But don’t worry, today we’re going to explain why you need to wash your hairbrush regularly and how to do it the right way to keep it clean and sanitary for a happier scalp and healthier head of hair.
Why Washing Your Hairbrush Regularly Is Important
Every time you brush your hairbrush collects oils, sebum, dead skin cells, lint, dust, dirt, and styling products from your hair. This builds up in the bristles over time creating the perfect environment for bacteria and fungi to grow. Then every time you brush you are spreading all of that gunk all over your hair and scalp. In fact, your hairbrush may actually be the cause of your itchy scalp if it’s harboring such buildup.
How Often To Wash Your Hairbrush
Every time you brush your hair you should be removing all of the shed hair from the brush. If you don’t they can cause snagging and tugging, and they collect and trap more dirt in your brush. Then about once a week your brush needs a good wash to get and keep it clean. It only takes 15 minutes or less and your air and scalp will thank you for it. You should already have everything you need to do it right in your bathroom.
How To Wash A Hairbrush
The process of washing a hairbrush is pretty straightforward. It does differ slightly based on the type of brush that you have. The first step is to remove all of the shed hair from the bristles. Use your fingers, a wide-toothed comb, a fork, or even tweezers to dig all that loose hair out being careful to not damage or pull out any bristles. Then if you have a plastic brush with synthetic bristles you will soak it in a sink full of warm water with a few drops of shampoo. Put it in to soak right before you get in the shower and it will be ready by the time you finish. Give it a good swish to remove any dislodged dirt. Now you can remove any remaining gunk with your fingers and give it a scrub with a toothbrush or stiff bristle paint brush to loosen any remaining buildup. If you have wood and a natural bristle brush the process is basically the same, but you don’t want to soak it. Soaking will damage the natural materials over time and could also loosen the adhesive holding the bristles in place. Just run the brush under hot water, add a few drops of shampoo and scrub with a toothbrush or paintbrush. Give your brush a good thorough rinse and then lay it bristles side down on a clean, dry towel in a well-ventilated area to dry.
Congratulations! You’ve just successfully cleaned your hairbrush. Remember to do this every week and your hair and scalp will thank you for it. If there is a buildup in the brush that you just can’t get out or if it has any damaged or missing bristles it’s time to get a new brush.
If you’re finding your hair is not as vibrant and healthy as you’d like, go clean your hairbrush, and then come see the haircare experts at Von Anthony Salon for a trim and a little TLC to restore its shine and luster. Give us a call at 972-731-7600 to schedule your appointment today. If you prefer to manage appointments from your phone download our free app from iTunes or Google Play We’ll see you soon at 7004 Lebanon Road, Suite 102 in Frisco, Texas.