Yet another hair care q (well, three actually)...
So far, I've been using a plastic wide-toothed comb since I began growing hair (about 1.5 years now).
First, what's the effective difference between brushing and combing?
Second, I'm looking into getting an actual brush. Does the quality of the brush matter at all or are they all essentially the same? If not, are there any particular brands that one may recommend?
Finally, what's the difference (besides the obvious shape, the practical/effectual difference) between round and cushioned and normal and whatever other brushes? Is any of these significantly better than the other? Does size matter?
Suggest you trot on down to a beauty supply store and ask the ladies there what's best. Hair's hair, regardless of the gender it sprouts from. Lots of good stuff at the beauty supply stores..
I'm happy with my brush. It's a Conair 100% boar bristle, round, about 3 inches in diameter, with a rubber handle. I like the round shape because I can rotate it as I brush to cover a longer length of hair with each stroke. Costs about $10 at CVS drugstore.
I get more control with the brush (compared to a comb) because it makes the hairs tend to stay together. It is better at distributing oils along the length of my hair. I also use combs, mostly to make sure there are no tangles before brushing, or if I don't have time to brush.
YMMV (depends on hair type, I suppose)