What Does a Paddle Brush Do?

Hairbrushes: The Paddle

October 13, 2008

The hairbrush — you probably use one every day, but with the wide variety of brushes available, do you ever wonder which is what, and which one you should pick, anyway? Well, you're in luck because all this week, I'll be featuring different types of brushes and how to use them. As a general guideline, pick a brush based on the length of your hair and the style you want to achieve.

Let's start off with the paddle brush, which is great for longer hairstyles. To use, gently lift hair at the roots and sweep down the hair shaft. Since this brush is so flat, it's best for creating smooth, sleek, and shiny styles without lots of volume. It also works wonders as a finisher for curly, frizzy, or wavy hair that's been styled by other means.

Because the paddle brush is so wide, it's also great for penetrating thick hair and providing a gentle, stimulating scalp massage. Try the Aveda Wooden Paddle Brush ($18).

10 Comments

angelfromlsu 4 years 32 weeks

I have that hairbrush!

sonya ina 4 years 32 weeks

I won't use anything but a paddle brush.

alexask 4 years 32 weeks

have it, love it

Antioxidant 4 years 32 weeks

I used to have that same brush, I used until it literally fell apart. I need to get another one!

0fashionqueen 4 years 32 weeks

I have being keeping my hair in microbraids for a time, but that is because I want my hair to grow, but after a while I am gone to take them out. So, I think that I will be needing to look for a different brush then what I got.

emososays17 4 years 32 weeks

I know paddle brushes are generally used for longer hair but I got my hair cut recently (barely collar bone length) and the stylist used a paddle brush when he was blowing it out. It made my hair really sleek and totally perfected the look. I haven't been able to replicate the look since because using a paddle brush on short hair is so awkward. I guess it all comes with stylist training...