Is It Time for a New Hairbrush? Here’s How to Tell - And Why It Matters

07. 31. 2025

Your blow dryer is powerful, your products are top shelf, and your stylist is a pro, but if you’re still using a beat-up hairbrush from who knows when, your hair might be missing the TLC it deserves. At Suede Salon Spa, one of the top Marlton Hair Salons, we know that healthy, gorgeous hair doesn’t just come from color and cuts, it’s also about the tools you use every day.

Hairbrushes are one of the most essential tools in your beauty routine, but they’re also one of the most overlooked. Many people are unaware that a hairbrush has a limited shelf life, or that using the wrong one can cause damage, frizz, and even scalp irritation. So, how do you know when it’s time to replace your brush, and what should you be using instead?

Here’s everything you need to know, straight from the haircare experts at Suede.

Signs Your Hairbrush Needs Replacing

1. Bristles Are Worn, Bent, or Falling Out

Your brush’s bristles are its lifeline. If they’re melted, bent, broken, or missing entirely, it’s time for a replacement. Damaged bristles can tug on your hair, causing unnecessary breakage, split ends, and discomfort while styling. This is especially true if you regularly blow-dry, as heat can warp synthetic bristles over time.

2. The Cushion Is Loose or Cracked

Many paddle and cushioned brushes have a soft rubber base that helps the bristles move gently over your scalp. When that cushion starts to crack, loosen, or sink, the brush loses its flexibility and becomes harsher on both your hair and scalp.

3. It’s Hard to Get Clean (or You Haven’t Cleaned It in Months)

We get it, cleaning your brush isn’t the most glamorous task. But over time, your brush collects hair, product buildup, oil, and even bacteria. If you’ve tried to clean it and can’t seem to get the gunk out, or worse, if it smells funky, it’s time to toss it.

4. You’ve Had It for Years

Even the highest-quality brushes don’t last forever. Depending on how often you use it and how well you care for it, your brush should be replaced every 6-12 months. If you can’t remember when you bought yours, that’s a good sign it’s overdue for an upgrade.

Why It Matters More Than You Think

Using an old, low-quality, or damaged brush can do more than just make your blowout fall flat. It can cause real harm to your hair and scalp.

  • Breakage: Rough or broken bristles snag strands, leading to split ends and hair loss.

  • Frizz and Static: A brush that’s past its prime can’t smooth the hair cuticle effectively.

  • Scalp Irritation: Worn-out brushes can scratch or inflame the scalp, especially if you have sensitive skin.

  • Product Build-Up: Dirty brushes redistribute oil and residue, leaving your hair looking greasy faster.

When your hairbrush isn’t working with you, it’s working against you.

Choosing the Right Brush for Your Hair Type

At Suede Salon Spa, your trusted spot not only for women’s styles but also for haircuts for men in Marlton, NJ. We’re here to educate and empower. Our stylists are trained in matching the right tools to your unique hair texture, density, and goals. Here are a few general guidelines:

  • Fine Hair: Look for a soft-bristle brush (like boar bristle) that distributes oils without pulling. Avoid brushes with stiff or widely spaced bristles, which can tear delicate strands.

  • Thick or Curly Hair: You’ll need a brush with stronger, widely spaced bristles to gently detangle without causing breakage. A vented or wide-tooth detangling brush is a great option.

  • Long Hair: Paddle brushes are great for smoothing and detangling longer lengths without too much tension on the scalp.

  • Blow Drying: A ceramic or round thermal brush can help you get that salon-smooth finish. Just be sure to use heat protectant and monitor your dryer temperature to avoid bristle damage.

Not sure which one is best? We’ve got you. Ask your Suede stylist for a personalized recommendation during your next appointment, and we’ll even help you shop the right brush from our curated retail collection.

How to Extend the Life of Your New Brush

Once you’ve invested in a high-quality brush, take good care of it! Here’s how:

  • Clean Weekly: Remove hair after each use, and clean your brush with warm water and gentle shampoo every 1-2 weeks to prevent buildup.

  • Air Dry Only: Never use a hair dryer to dry your brush. Let it air dry, bristle-side down.

  • Store Smart: Avoid tossing your brush into cluttered drawers or letting it roll around in gym bags. This helps prevent bending or breaking the bristles.

  • Don’t Share: As tempting as it is, avoid sharing your brush with others. Brushes can transfer oil, flakes, and bacteria from one scalp to another.

Ready for a better brush and better hair?
Come see us at Suede Salon Spa! Your hair (and scalp!) will thank you.

Book your appointment today and get ready to glow all season long.

We are located at The Promenade, 500 NJ-73, Suite E12, in Marlton, NJ, 08053. You can call us at 856-985-0700. For extra convenience, you can book appointments, purchase gift cards, and so much more in our mobile app, available from iTunes and Google Play.

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