When it comes to curl definition, most of us are always looking for the best products to do the trick. One of the most important components to curl definition, is how your hair is styled fresh out of the shower. Some of us can get so caught up in all the conditioners and jellies, and we forget that the styling and detangling tools we use are just as important! One of the most popular styling tools in the curly world is the Denman brush – but there are a few things you need to know first to get the most out of this tool.
What is a Denman brush?
Denman brushes are some of the most popular styling tools amongst us curlies. Turn on any natural hair tutorial, and it’s likely that the beauty guru is reaching for one. They’re credited often with giving your hair that extra curl definition you’re looking for.
How should you use a Denman brush?
Please remember to use your Denman brush only while your hair is wet and saturated with a product that offers plenty of slip! You may want to fully detangle your hair with your fingers before you start styling with the Denman brush.
We are often told not to brush our hair at all as curlies, but when used correctly brushes and combs can be important tools in wet detangling, dry detangling, and styling curly hair. It’s crucial to understand which tools to use and how to use them correctly, otherwise you can cause breakage.
Photo: @dencurls
Read next: How to Brush Style Curly Hair – the RIGHT Way
What’s the difference between different Denman Brushes?
There are many different Denman brushes with names like “D3” and “D31” so it can quickly get confusing – but one major difference is the amount of rows and bristles. Depending on your hair texture, length and density, the brush that will best suit your curls may vary. I’d recommend always keeping your receipt, just in case you need to try something different out!
Why do curlies modify their Denman brushes?
Many curlies will remove every other row of pins and make other adjustments to their brush to better flow through the hair. This is a popular option for making your tools work best for your unique curls. If your brush is causing a lot of breakage and pain, it is not the brush for you.
What do the curl “Types” mean?
In this article I’ll be making recommendations based on NaturallyCurly’s Texture Typing System, which divides curl patterns into Type 2 waves, Type 3 curls, and Type 4 coils. If you don’t know your curl pattern, you can take our quiz.
Curl pattern is only one element of your hair type, alongside other traits like density, porosity, width, and length. It can be a helpful starting point when you’re just getting to know your hair and the products that work well for you.
For Type 4 Coily Hair
With a lot of curl can come a lot of work, especially when it comes to detangling. It’s important to use a Denman brush that has the rows and bristles spread out so your hair does not get caught or break off.
Try the D31 Original Styler 7 Row Denman Brush
If you have tight coils I’d recommend the D31 Denman brush. Get it while you can, it sells out fast! The D31 brush has 7 rows of pins, which are all separated far apart. It allows your hair to flow through with ease. This brush really helps give each of your coils and curls definition without making you feel tender headed!
For Type 3 Curly Hair
For my Type 3 girls out there, you’re working with a lot of curl too!
Try the D31 or the Denman D41 9-Row Freeflow
The D31 Denman brush will also work just fine for you. However, if you are looking for something that will give your hair some extra umph, you can reach for the D41 too! It has two extra rows of pins that help clump your curls together in the best way. Keeping in theme with the D31, the pins are still far enough apart that it does the trick while allowing your hair to breathe.
For Type 2 Wavy Hair
I know my type 2 girls are always trying to get their waves and curls to look cohesive, at least I always am!
Try the D3 Original Styler 7-Row
Because our hair tends to be a bit finer in texture, the closer the pins are on the brush, the more definition we’ll get. That’s why I’d recommend the D3 Classic Styling Brush for anyone with waves or loose curls. It’s a classic for a reason! All hair textures reach for this brush, while many curlies modify it to meet their needs.
Most of us are in a never ending cycle of trying to have our best hair day. With the use of a Denman brush in your routine, hopefully you can get the job done!
Denman brushes are not the only styling brush out there! If you’ve tried one and it simply does not work for your hair, we’ve broken down the different types of styling brushes that will help you create curl definition.
If on the other hand you are looking for a detangling brush, these are the best brushes for detangling curly hair, according to curl stylists.
This article has been updated.
