How to Brush Curly Hair: 6 Easy Steps for Defined, Voluminous Curls

A proper brushing technique can mean the difference between defined curls and lots of frizz. Learn how to brush curly hair for beautiful curls and coils.

By Manoela Caldas & Powered By L’Oreal Professional Products Division

Update Date: 17 Jun 2026

TL;DR: The secret to brushing curly hair is to do it gently while your hair is damp and fortified with a leave-in product. Using a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush, work in sections from the ends up to your roots. This technique minimizes frizz, prevents breakage, and helps keep your curl pattern defined and full.

Key Takeaways:

• Always brush curly hair when it's damp, never when it's dry, to prevent frizz and breakage.
• Use the right tools, such as a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush specifically designed for curls.
• Apply a leave-in conditioner for slip, divide your hair into sections, and brush gently from the ends up to the roots.

Why Does Curly Hair Require Special Care?

Thanks to the uneven structure of its hair fiber, curly hair is more delicate than other hair types. Roughing up your curls with aggressive hair brushing can unintentionally break your fragile strands, disrupt your curl pattern, and contribute to frizz. Handling your curls with finesse and care is the secret to maintaining your pattern and supporting the health and appearance of your curls.

Should You Brush Curly Hair Wet or Dry?

If there’s one rule the curly hair community stands by—it’s always brush your hair while it's damp. Hair is most pliable when wet, making it easier to detangle. And since your curls have yet to set into their final shape, there’s less risk of undoing your pattern or generating frizz.

It’s worth noting that this advice is a bit of a double-edged sword: Hair is in its weakest state when wet, so you want to be extra cautious when detangling. If you have stubborn knots, try not to yank your comb or brush through your wet strands. Instead, apply a bit of conditioner to give it some slip. Then, gently loosen the tangles with your fingers before following through them with your brush.

What's the Best Brush for Curly Hair?

Before you learn how to brush curly hair, you want to ensure you have the right tools for the job. Luckily, there are a few tried-and-true brushes for curly hair. Choosing the right one will ultimately depend on your hair type and texture. Below are a few of the most commonly recommended tools for brushing curly hair.

Wide-toothed comb

A wide-tooth comb is essential for detangling stubbornly curly hair without creating breakage or frizz. The larger spaces between the teeth glide easily through your curls without disturbing your curl pattern or causing your hair to lose its shape.

Detangling Brush

Detangling brushes are designed to glide through knots and tangles, minimizing pulling and tugging that can lead to breakage. Their flexible bristles also gently massage the scalp. Consider the Tangle Teezer or a Wet Brush.

Denman brush

The Denman brush has been around for 80 years and is popular for defining curls and distributing products evenly through the hair. Its shape, weight, and sturdy nylon bristles generate just the right amount of tension required to pull hair taut so curls spring to life. Each stylist may recommend a different iteration of the Denman brush, so be sure to consult your stylist to determine which one is right for you.

How To Brush Curly Hair Without Making It Frizzy

A proper brushing technique can help you combat unwanted poofiness. Brushing curly hair when it’s dry can lift the cuticle, resulting in a poofy mess. The best way to brush curly hair is when it's damp and with the right tools to minimize breakage. To further prevent frizz, apply a smoothing leave-in treatment before using your comb or brush.

How Often Should I Brush My Curly Hair?

As a general rule, it's recommended to brush your curly hair on wash day or any time you’d like to refresh your curls. Refreshing is about giving your curls a pick-me-up, and all that you need is a bit of water and a curl-defining spray. Once lightly coated with product, gently brush or comb through your hair to remove knots before scrunching your curls back into shape.

How To Brush Curly Hair In 6 Easy Steps

With the right techniques, you can navigate your curls like a pro in no time. Here are simple steps to help you master the art of brushing curly hair.

Step 1: Start with damp hair

Ensure your hair is damp before brushing.

Step 2: Apply your favorite leave-in styler

Apply the leave-in conditioner or styling product of your choice to add moisture, define your curls, and protect against frizz.

Step 3: Choose the right comb or brush

Opt for a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush specifically designed for curly hair.

Step 4: Divide your hair into sections

Part your hair down the middle, then section each half into smaller sections to make brushing manageable.

Step 5: Begin brushing from the bottom up

Grab a section and start brushing from the bottom up, working your way from the ends to the roots.

Step 6: Finish with a nourishing hair oil

Complete your curly hair routine by applying a nourishing hair oil to seal in moisture, add shine, and tame stray flyaways.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Brushing Curly Hair

Mistake: Brushing dry hair
Solution: Always brush your hair when damp. Mistake: Using any brush or comb
Solution: Opt for tools specifically designed for curly hair. Mistake: Brushing too frequently
Solution: Brush your curls only when necessary. Mistake: Brushing from the top down
Solution: Begin brushing from the ends of your hair. Mistake: Brushing with tension
Solution: Avoid pulling or tugging while brushing. Mistake: Brushing without product
Solution: Apply a leave-in conditioner or styling product before brushing.