Hairbrush

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A hairbrush is a small brush with rigid bristles used in hair care for brushing, styling, and detangling human hair, or for brushing a domestic animal's fur. The earliest US patent for a modern hairbrush was by Hugh Rock in 1854 (US Design Patent #D645 ). A brush with elastic wire teeth along with natural bristles was patented by Samuel Firey in 1870 as U.S. Patent 106,680 .

[edit] Grooming

It is typically used on longer hair, while a comb is normally used on shorter hair, but can be still used for short hair. A flat brush is normally used for detangling hair, a round brush for styling and curling hair, especially by a professional stylist, and with a blowdryer. A paddle brush is used to straighten hair. A hairbrush is also useful in removing loose hairs, and in increasing circulation to the scalp.

The brushing of a domestic animal's fur is often perceived as a mark of affection and/or a bonding experience, which can have a soothing effect, e.g. making a cat purr. Special brushes are made for cats and dogs. For an equine's tougher hair, a curry-comb is used.

[edit] The hairbrush in popular culture

A hairbrush—or the lack of one—is featured in the Veggie Tales Silly Song With Larry, "The Hairbrush Song" ("Oh, Where Is My Hairbrush?"). Larry, being a cucumber, has no hair. A hairbrush is traditionally used as an implement for corporal punishment, and is frequently shown in illustrations depicting spanking

[edit] Sources and external links

• "The Hairbrush Song" lyrics