From Waves to Coils: How to Pick the Best Brush for Curls

The Key to Frizz-Free, Well-Defined Curls Your Clients Will Love

Does your brush really work for your client’s curls?

Short answer: Maybe. Long answer: You might need an upgrade.

You already know that curls aren’t one-size-fits-all—but the brush you’re using? It could be working against you. Too much tension? Breakage. The wrong bristles? Frizz. Not enough control? Say goodbye to definition.

The right tool = better curls. Here’s how to match the brush to the texture for easier detangling, defined curls and clients who can’t stop booking with you.

For Wavy to Loose Curls (2A to 3A):

Looser curl patterns need the right balance—too much tension can stretch them out, while the wrong bristles can cause unnecessary frizz. To prevent this, choose a brush like the Olivia Garden® CurlyHair Single Bristle Brush.

Here’s what to know about the brush:

• It has a uniform bristle pattern keeps tension consistent, allowing curls to form naturally.
• The seamless, single-piece design glides through hair without snagging or causing breakage.
• Works on wet or dry hair for detangling, distributing product or refining shape.
• Enhances definition without disrupting the curl pattern.
• Lightweight and ergonomic to reduce wrist strain during long styling sessions.

In collaboration with curly hair experts, Olivia Garden® developed the CurlyHair line over four years to help curls take shape without extra frizz or unwanted stretching.

Savannah Hicks (@thesavvytouch) uses this brush to detangle and enhance curls without disrupting their natural shape:

Photo Credit: Instagram via @thesavvytouch

Photo Credit: Instagram via @thesavvytouch

For Curls That Need Extra Tension & Definition (2C to 4A):

Not all brushes are built for tighter curls and coils. Some barely get through dense hair, while others create unnecessary tension and breakage. The Olivia Garden® CurlyHair Dual Bristle Brush has wide, cone-shaped bristles to move through curls more easily, while a slightly stiffer material provides better control for higher-density textures.

Beyond detangling, this brush design supports:

• Scalp Care: The scalp-hugging shape helps stimulate blood flow,
• Styling Control: The seamless, heat-friendly construction prevents snags and holds up under high temperatures.

Marc Mendez (@therealmarcmendez) uses this brush to detangle and define curls with controlled tension:

Add these trusted curly hair brushes to your arsenal—click here!

For Medium to Tight Curls (3B to 4C):

If you have a client with tight curls or dense coils, you know detangling can be time-consuming—and the wrong brush can cause unnecessary tension and breakage. The Olivia Garden® CurlyHair Wide Bristle Brush has wide, cone-shaped bristles that glide through curls while maintaining definition. The slightly stiffer material gives enough control to work through high-density hair without excessive pulling.

For Volume & Definition—All Curl Types:

A good pick comb should add volume without disturbing curl definition. The Olivia Garden® CurlyHair Pick Comb makes it easy to lift and fluff hair thanks to its unique shape and durable design that won’t snap or bend under pressure. Here are its other features:

• Its durable design ensures it won’t snap or bend under pressure.
• The thin teeth reach into the curl pattern, allowing for controlled styling.
• A wider base helps separate and enhance volume without creating frizz.

Savannah uses the CurlyHair Pick Comb to add volume and lift while keeping her curl definition intact:

Shop Oliva Garden®’s CurlyHair Collection here!