But not all hair brushes are created equal. Hop into any drugstore and you’ll find a wide variety of brushes for every type of hair.
Some are plastic, some are metal, some are wood, some are “all-natural.” What the heck are we looking for here?
In a Hurry? Here’s Our Quick List of Top Picks
- Redecker 8″ Tampico Fiber hair brush with Oiled Beechwood Handle
- Nipoo Natural Wooden Paddle Hair Brush + Mini Travel Brush
- pureGLO Natural Wooden Hair Brush with Gift Box
- Panda Stuff Natural Wooden Paddle Hair Brush
- Bass Brushes Bamboo Pin + Bamboo Handle Hair Brush
What Makes a hair brush “Natural” and Why it Matters
Standing in front of a sea of hair brushes, I squint at all the labels and wonder why this particular product needs to be all natural, and what it really means. First, let’s examine this visual. A sea of hair brushes. The sea. Bingo.
Remember “all drains lead to the ocean?” Well, we can further the quote with “all things eventually end up in the sea.” What? How?
In a world of consumerism and packaging, our life-giving oceans are becoming polluted with our post-consumer trash. Mainly plastic.
Plastic
Plastic is literally creating massive islands in the ocean and killing sea creatures left and right. The last thing you want to do is contribute to the devastation. But, considering how many things are made of plastic these days, how is it possible?
There are many alternatives to plastic brushes out there, and we’re going to focus on wood. Doesn’t wood have its own issues, with sustainability and all? Well, yes, it’s definitely another aspect to consider.
Wood is obviously a natural resource, and abundant, but is it always resourced responsibly? In a word, no.
Companies are becoming more conscious and making efforts toward more sustainable forestry practices, but not all. Look for brushes made from fast growing trees and grasses, like sandalwood and bamboo.
The brushes we chose are all sourced responsibly and crafted from materials which minimize environmental impact.
Bamboo
Bamboo is a fast-growing grass which requires no fertilizer, resists most pests, and regenerates from its own roots. It requires very little water and puts more oxygen into the air than any other plant!
Bamboo is also an incredibly strong fiber, least likely to warp, and gorgeous to boot! No wonder so many wood products are now being made from bamboo instead.
With a growth rate in ideal conditions of 3 feet per day, reaching maturity at 6 months, bamboo forests make the perfect alternative to wood in nearly all compacities.
Sandalwood
Sandalwood has had its share of controversy, being nearly wiped out in its native India. The heartwood of Sandalwood is what is usually harvested for its beautiful colors and its unique, distinguishable, and long-lasting scent.
The demand for the aromatherapeutic and extremely dense hardwood has driven it nearly to extinction. However, it is being saved and sustainably grown and harvested in other parts of the world now, namely Australia.
Australia is now the largest producer of Sandalwood, and India is making sure the forests they have are harvested responsibly and sustainably managed from here on out. What an amazing progression for the planet!
What about animal hair? So many “natural” brushes are made with animal hair bristles. That’s not vegan, is it? Nope.
No matter the source or the way it is obtained, brushes made from animal hair aren’t vegan. For hair brushes, the most common is boar bristles.
Of course, you don’t want to scrub any part or your body or your home with animal hair, so what’s the alternative there?
Thankfully, there are many natural fibers which are just as tough and durable as animal hair, so finding one is as simple as checking the label. One of the more popular fibers for this purpose is Tampico.
There are many varieties of natural hair brushes on the market, and while it may seem overwhelming, which is precisely why you’re here. We’ll help guide you through the plethora of choices to find what works best for you and your signature mane of glory.
5 Top Picks for Vegan Hair Brushes
You’re armed with the knowledge, now it’s time to check out the goods.
We’ve scoured the internet for the best brushes out there and narrowed it down to these five all-natural beauties designed to enhance YOUR natural beauty!
Redecker 8″ Tampico Fiber hair brush with Oiled Beechwood Handle
Handcrafted in Germany, Redecker brushes are known for their sound craftsmanship and durability. These brushes have been lovingly and meticulously created since 1935, and they know what they’re doing.
This 8” Tampico fiber hair brush is made from the fiber of Agave and Yucca plants from Mexico.
Tampico fibers have been used for personal care for centuries. These fibers are similar in function, appearance, and durability to Boar Bristles, but without all the animal cruelty. Score.
Redecker combines these stiff but stimulating bristles with a beautiful oiled Beechwood handle to create a brush which is as gorgeous as it is functional. It is perfect for smooth finishing of all hair types and textures.
This brush can also be used as an all over body scrubber to slough off dead skin and leave your whole body feeling renewed and invigorated. Multi-use is always a winner in my book!
What We Like
- 8” handle is the perfect length, especially for long hair
- Strong, tight fibers leave hair smooth and shiny
- Easy to clean and maintain
What We Don’t Like
- Bristles are very stiff, not great for thick hair
- Handle could be heavier for a sturdier feel
Nipoo Natural Wooden Paddle Hair Brush + Mini Travel Brush
The Nipoo natural wooden paddle brush is a large paddle-style brush made from 100% Bamboo. Bamboo is naturally anti-microbial and regular use of this brush will help to naturally condition and evenly distribute your hair’s natural oils from root to tip.
The bristles on these brushes have rounded ends, making them gentle on even the most sensitive scalp. The massaging tips also help stimulate blood flow at the hair follicles, making your hair healthier as you brush.
The matching mini brush is crafted from Theaceae wood, which also has anti-microbial properties.
It’s perfect for travelling, or for smaller hands and kids. It’s not as sturdy as the big brush, but it’s great for touch-ups on-the-go.
Both brushes are perfect for detangling and reducing static. They work great on all types and textures of hair. They are effective and gentle on both wet and dry hair. Your hair will be smoother, shinier, more healthful looking in no time!
What We Like
- Rounded bristle tips are gentle and soothing to the scalp
- Great quality at an affordable price
- Comes with extra bristles
What We Don’t Like
- Bristle base comes loose (though it is relatively easy to fix)
- Bristles can snag and pull coarse or curly hair
pureGLO Natural Wooden Hair Brush with Gift Box
The pureGLO natural wooden hair brush is a gorgeous brush hand-crafted from aromatic green Sandalwood. It comes with a gift box for giving as a special and thoughtful gift. And, although a hair brush may not seem like much of a gift, each brush has a one-of-a-kind grain and is individually unique.
The natural rounded bristles detangle, groom, and style your hair, while pulling natural oils to smooth and moisturize without the need for artificial products. You may find you use less conditioners and other products with continued use of this brush.
The cushioned base helps to absorb any shock from harsh brushing and massages your scalp without stripping the skin or oils. Some customers have reported how using this brush has given them relief from having an itchy scalp and dandruff.
Sandalwood is a natural aromatherapeutic wood which is known to help calm and soothe the mind. The subtle scent will last for decades with proper care and maintenance. Its natural beauty makes this brush a stand-out on your bathroom counter.
What We Like
- Works well with all types and textures of hair
- Does not pull or snag
- Sandalwood is both gorgeous and has a soothing aroma
What We Don’t Like
- Bristles may be a bit short for thicker hair
- Rubber cushion creates static despite claiming not to
Panda Stuff Natural Wooden Paddle Hair Brush
The Panda Stuff natural wooden paddle brush and comb set is made from Bamboo (excluding the rubber bristle cushion). It is 100% compostable or recyclable. Even the recycled cardboard packaging is eco-friendly!
It also comes with a reusable muslin bag, perfect for travelling and storage.
The bamboo bristles are softly rounded to gently massage and stimulate blood flow and hair growth. The rubber cushion helps to absorb shock and minimize static. Regular brushing with this brush will leave your locks looking luscious and healthy.
This set is ideal for most hair types, though the comb is more suited to fine or thinning hair (it’s great for little kiddos). It’s a lovely set, even with a less than satisfactory comb. Don’t let that sway you from this great brush.
The 9-inch brush fits nicely in your hand and is comfortable to use. This length is ideal for long hair and makes it easy to brush the full length. Even thick hair is no match for this brush! It works through tangles without pulling or tearing. Gentle, yet effective.
What We Like
- 100% compostable and/or recyclable
- Gentle rounded bristles for even the most sensitive scalp
- Sturdy, durable, and easy to care for
What We Don’t Like
- Comb isn’t effective for most hair types
- Bristles may come loose, but are replaceable
Bass Brushes Bamboo Pin + Bamboo Handle Hair Brush
Bass makes great brushes. I’ve used them since I was a kid and have passed my love on to my own children. This bamboo pin and bamboo handle hair brush is a small paddle-style brush.
It is ideal for short to medium hair of any texture. It’s not as effective on long hair, due to its rather short handle.
However, the smaller head of this brush makes it run smoothly and easily through hair without getting tangled or snagging. Ever had a brush get stuck in your hair and had to yank it, or worse, cut it out? It won’t happen with this brush.
The wide set of bristles help keep hair tangle free and won’t pull or tear. A good thing, I assure you, especially if you’re brushing someone else’s hair.
There’s nothing worse than tugging and wrenching an uncooperative brush through a fidgety child’s hair. It’s nightmare fuel.
The smaller size makes it ideal for travel and for home and is especially suited for detangling wet hair during and after a shower.
In fact, this is the brush we keep in our shower to smooth knots while conditioning. This brush is both beautiful and functional. It will grace your bathroom and smooth your hair for years to come.
What We Like
- Straight bristles don’t snag in tangles
- Smaller paddle head idea for styling and smoothing
- Easy to care for and clean
What We Don’t Like
- As with others, the bristles can come loose
- Small size not as effective on long hair
Top Choice for the Best Vegan Hair Brush
While all these brands provide quality, hair brushes crafted from sustainable and eco-friendly materials, there must be a clear winner.
For this round, it’s the pureGLO natural wooden hair brush with gift box. This unique, beautiful Sandalwood brush is far and away the prettiest brush on the list.
Don’t be fooled, though, it isn’t just superficial beauty which makes this brush a winner.
The distinct aromatherapeutic benefits of Sandalwood help this brush stand apart from the competition. Does your current brush help soothe your mind and give you a feeling of inner peace? Didn’t think so.
The pureGLO Sandalwood brush will also help reduce hair shedding and fall out. Regular brushing will keep your hair healthy with its own natural oils. You’ll see an instant reduction in static and scalp irritation after the first few uses.
Instead of relying on styling and cleansing products, you may find yourself with luxurious locks simply from daily brushing.
Could it really be this easy? Could gorgeous locks be within reach, just by choosing a better brush? In a word, yes.
It seems Marsha Brady and her diligent 100 brush strokes routine may not have been so silly after all. Especially if she was using a pureGLO Sandalwood brush! This may very well be the best thing you’ve ever purchased for your hair health.