We've Found the Best Combs for Curly Frizzy Hair

One of the biggest things I’ve learnt when it comes to managing curly hair is that it’s all about using the right tools.

To comb hair or brush hair? That is the question!

Curls are different to straight hair. Brushing or combing your hair can quickly go from harmless task to frizz attack.

Sometimes, even simple detangling becomes a disaster.

Grooming curly hair might seem like hard work, but we just need to understand that it can be fragile.

Curly hair fibres are irregular in shape (elliptical) and texture. This means the hair shaft can have ‘high spots’ where the cuticle is lifted slightly higher in some areas than in other areas.

The cortex of the hair becomes randomly exposed, thus vulnerable to damage, humidity, and dehydration. This is why, when you use a hard brush on it, your hair may freak out and get super-frizzy.

The brush disrupts and breaks the individual curls, stretching their structure, which leads to frizz and damage.

The Best Combs for Curly, Frizzy Hair.

What's the Best Comb for Curly Frizzy Hair?

It depends on your curl type and what you’re using a comb for (e.g., detangling vs styling). But the safest option is a wide tooth comb. Wide teeth will glide through your hair without breaking up your beautiful curls.

Whether you want to achieve well-defined curls or sleek, smooth hair, follow our tips and tricks on how to correctly comb curly hair.

Combing is the perfect multitasking shower activity. We often get asked, Is it bad to comb wet hair? Truth is, yes it can be damaging for other hair types but when it comes to curly hair, it's better to comb it when wet.

The best way to comb curly hair without making it frizzy is to comb it when wet and (preferably) with some conditioner on it.

The secret of how to comb hair properly is to start by combing just the ends and gradually move up.

First, comb through any knots in the lower sections of your hair. Work your way up with a wide tooth comb for curly hair, being gentle and holding your hair in place to put less stress on those strands. In this scenario, always opt for a comb, as it’s gentler on the structure of curly hair. 

Wait, Does That Mean I Can Never Comb My Hair When It’s Dry?

Honestly, if you want to avoid frizzing up your curly locks, you probably don't want to be combing it when your hair is dry.

But if you don't have time for a full hair washing session and still need to do some detangling, we recommend doing so by getting the hair damp first. Using a detangling spray or nourishing hair oil will help lubricate your curls and prevent damage.

And opt for a wooden wide tooth comb to prevent breakage as much as possible.

A wooden comb is gentle on the scalp and helps distribute sebum, preventing your hair from drying out.

You may be thinking, Is a plastic comb good for hair? A plastic comb can be too tough, producing static electricity in the hair and potentially breaking your locks.

As curly hair is more sensitive when dry, the main factor in how to comb curly hair without it getting frizzy, is to be gentle.

Comb your hair with care and don’t get too rough with those knots; it’ll only lead to frizz and split ends.

If you hit a snag, use your fingers to gently separate and detangle. Then use the comb to finish.

Want more of best products and tips for frizzy hair? Check out these helpful articles...

• The Best Hair Frizz Control Products

• The Best Shampoo for Frizzy Hair

• Aveda Curly Hair Routine Using The Curly Girl Method

• Humidity-proof Hair Care Routine For Frizzy Hair

• Best Products to Get Rid of Baby Hair Flyaways

• How to Prep and Style Naturally Curly Hair

• Meet the New 'Plant-Powered' Bond Repair Hair Mask 6 Years in the Making

Brand and product inclusions are at the sole discretion of Adore Beauty. We do not seek or accept payment from brands or individuals listed in our guides.