Tune up your beauty tools

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Is it time to give your old brush the brush-off?
Hair pros advise replacing your hair brushes as soon as they show wear, as uneven or broken bristles can damage hair. When browsing for brushes, choosing the right one — from the dozens of sizes, materials, styles and shapes in stores — may be the key to getting the look you want.
Here’s a rundown of what to look for in a new brush:
What should you pay?

At large retail stores and drug stores, you can find all types of brushes starting at around $6. But if you want higher-end, professional brushes (which are made for stylists and are more durable), you’ll need to go to a salon or a hair specialty shop. And expect to pay more depending on the brush, from $12 to $20 and up, said David Dandridge of Hair Odyssey in Montgomery.
Which type do you need?

Vent brush: This lightweight brush, which has vents, is slightly rounded on the sides and flat in the center. It is designed to speed blow drying, add volume and create texture.
“This brush provides root lift and volume for all types of hair,” Dandridge said. “The bristles grip hair during styling and creates lift.”
Paddle brush: With bristles extending out so they can stimulate the scalp and reduce stress to the hair, this brush is great for de-tangling, and ideal for people with long hair who want to have a smooth and shiny style, Dandridge said. Usually they are about four-by-four inches and may be made of wood and have boar bristles, which maximize shine.

Round brush: This versatile tool can add curl, curve and volume to straight hair and can straighten wavy or curly hair.
Ceramic brush: “As you blow-dry, the ceramic barrel heats up, which speeds up drying time, creating longer-lasting styles,” Dandridge said. “It increases volume and gives a smooth, shiny, healthy finish.” Metal-base or thermal brushes also use heat in this way.
Cushion brush: The soft rubber base on this all-purpose brush gives easily, so it is gentle on your hair and scalp. Most have nylon bristles, which are great for de-tangling.


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