The Different Types of Combs You Need for Your Hair Type

If you’re like most people, you probably have several combs and brushes in your bathroom cabinet right now. A comb can help tame unruly locks, while a brush can be used to smooth frizzy hair before styling it into an elegant updo or blowout, depending on your personal preferences and lifestyle. But the problem with having so many combs and brushes on hand? Knowing which one is best suited to your hair type and needs! That’s why we’ve compiled this handy guide to the different types of combs you should keep around at all times.

Choosing the right type of comb for your hair
When it comes to hair, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The type of comb you use depends on your hair type. If you have fine, delicate hair, you’ll want to use a plastic comb. Wooden combs are better for thicker, coarser hair. And if you have curly hair, you’ll need a wide-toothed comb to avoid damaging your strands. No matter what type of hair you have, there’s a comb out there that’s perfect for you.

The most important thing is finding the right tool for the job. Whether you’re using it to detangle or maintain your style, the right comb will make all the difference. Luckily, we’ve put together this list of the best options for every hair type so you can find the right one in no time!

All-Purpose Comb
This comb is usually made of plastic and has both wide and narrow teeth. It can be used on all hair types, but works best on medium to long hair that isn’t too thick or curly. This type of comb is also good for detangling wet hair.

Popular items in all types of colors, these combs come in a variety of lengths. The seven-inch is an important length because they’re easier to use than shorter or longer combs that must be put in a purse or a wallet.

Barber Comb
These are the combs that barbers use most often. With these combs, you can cut and trim the hair without getting too close to the head, and they come with a fine-tooth and a wide-tooth section.

Additionally, they also have tapering combs, which are wider at one end than the other and they act as a guard so that the barber doesn’t hurt the scalp. It is basically the same thing as the guards on electric clippers. They may not be as easy to find as other types of combs, but you should be able to find them at a beauty supply store.

Fine-Tooth Comb
A fine-tooth comb is great for untangling knots and can help you achieve a sleek, polished look. If you have fine hair, a wooden fine-tooth comb is a good option because it won’t damage your delicate strands. Just be sure to use gentle strokes when combing to avoid breakage.

If you have thick hair, a wide-tooth comb is ideal. This type of comb can cut through knots and resist breakage since its teeth are spaced farther apart than those on a fine-tooth comb. A wooden wide-tooth comb will be able to handle your coarser hair without snapping or breaking as easily as its metal counterpart. Use it from top to bottom to start detangling your hair before switching to a finer-toothed comb, if necessary.

Pick Comb
Similar to a rake comb, pick combs are meant for brushing the hair in a different direction and tend to be best for those who want an afro. Pick combs typically have wide teeth and a short handle and can also be used to style hair.

Most often made of plastic or metal, and come in various colors and sizes. Great for people with frizzy or thick hair, and will typically fit in your pocket or purse.

Pin Tail Comb
A pin tail comb has the same effect as a rat tail comb, but the difference is that the handle, or the tail, is much thinner and finer. If you need to style your hair in a specific manner, the pin tail comb is the tool for you. If you straighten your hair with a flat iron, then these types of combs are absolutely vital.

You can braid or roll your hair strand by strand and ensure not a single stray hair is left behind, and you can use it to avoid accidentally poking your scalp. Furthermore, if you’re using rollers, the pin tail comb can be used to gather just the right amount of hair for each roller, and anything you need to do to your hair, such as dyeing it, is made much easier with a pin tail comb. Comparable to other combs, the pin tail comb is affordable and simple to find.

Pocket Comb
In essence, pocket combs are small combs that fit into your pocket. They generally have a wide-tooth side and a fine-tooth side to accommodate all hair types, but their main characteristic is their small size.

Another thing they have in common is that they are designed to fit inside pockets. They are inexpensive and very easy to find. Another factor making them different is that they are extra durable. Many pocket combs are black in color and very simple and standard in appearance.