Best hair comb

The use of combs dates back to prehistoric times. The oldest comb dates back to around 5,000 years ago.

by: Ana Sanchez, BestReviews Staff

Posted: Jan 16, 2023 / 05:13 AM EST

Updated: Jan 16, 2023 / 06:04 AM EST

Almost everyone can benefit from using a comb, but some combs work best for certain hair type. People with thick, curly hair will benefit from using a wide-tooth comb, while people with fine hair may find it easier to style with a fine-tooth comb. A good comb should be both flexible and sturdy, especially since you don't want to break its teeth while you’re pulling it through your hair.

Combs come in many sizes, shapes and materials. If you want a classic wood comb that will detangle your hair effectively, the Onedor Handmade Natural Green Sandalwood Hair Comb is your best bet. It's made of sandalwood, which helps reduce static and prevents snags.

The most affordable combs are made of plastic, which typically lasts only a few years before the comb's teeth or tines break. Another drawback of plastic is that it can cause static in your hair, leading to breakage.

If it's within your budget, invest in a more durable material such as cellulose acetate, hard rubber, metal or wood. Wooden combs are a bit pricier, but they are naturally anti-static.

People primarily use combs for detangling and styling their hair. A comb can also remove dirt and debris.

Different combs provide different functions. For instance, you can use a fine-toothed comb for styling hair into a strong part, but you’ll want a wide-tooth comb or detangling comb for getting knots out of extra-curly or thick hair. You may even want to try a detangling spray to help your comb glide through hair, reducing snagging.

There are many types of combs.

A full-sized comb on average measures 7.5 inches long, though some exceed 9 inches. A "pocket" comb is just a shorter version of a comb, and averages 5 inches in length. The smallest combs measure 3 inches in length.

Because a comb may touch your scalp, you don't want teeth that are sharp and can scratch your skin. Some combs have more pointed teeth to target tangles and snarls. Others have rounded teeth that are less likely to snag, but may not work as well on knots.

The simplest combs consist of a shaft, a row of teeth and no handle. Combs with handles are more common in wide-tooth combs, rakes and picks. Fine-tooth combs may also have a rat tail or pin handle, which is a thin point used to create sections or parts in the hair. Some handles have a hook or hole for easy storage.

Combs used to be made from tortoiseshell and ivory. Due to concerns for animal welfare, these materials are no longer available, but you can still find tortoiseshell-patterned combs. The most common color for plastic combs is black, but you can find them in plenty of other colors, too.

If you need to groom your beard or mustache, select a comb designed for facial hair. These have fine teeth, medium teeth or a set of both. They also come in shorter lengths to accommodate the texture and length of facial hair that sprouts from your face.

A basic plastic comb costs as little as $1-$6. Cellulose acetate and wood combs start at $7 and can cost upward of $25.

A. The biggest benefit of buying a metal comb is its durability and longevity. It won't warp or lose its teeth, either, and can glide through hair without snagging or pulling. The downside is that a quality metal comb can be quite pricey and heavy.

A. If you like to detangle your hair in the shower, be sure your comb is waterproof. Plastic and cellulose acetate are waterproof. It's always a good idea to use a wide-tooth or detangling comb on wet hair.

Onedor Handmade Natural Green Sandalwood Hair Comb

What you need to know: This elegant wide-tooth comb is made of sandalwood, which carries a distinctive natural scent.

What you’ll love: The wide teeth don't snag on wet hair and won't create static on dry hair. The overall 8-inch length is practical and the handle has a smooth finish.

What you should consider: The sandalwood turns green over time and its scent can be strong for sensitive noses.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Ace Hair Dressing Comb

What you need to know: This is great if you want a classic all-purpose comb that's simple and sturdy.

What you’ll love: This low-priced comb has both a fine- and medium-tooth section. It comes in a 7.5-inch size that's perfect for most users. This comb is ideal for short hair and thin hair, and the teeth aren't sharp on the scalp.

What you should consider: Some consumers noticed the teeth broke off over time.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Paul Mitchell Pro Tools Detangler Comb

What you need to know: This large detangler is a great value.

What you’ll love: This wide-toothed comb removes tangles on wet or dry hair without pulling or breaking. A larger comb at over 9.5 inches long, it's perfect for detangling and loosening tight curls.

What you should consider: The handle may be too big and unwieldy for smaller hands.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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Ana Sanchez writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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