The best Afro combs to make brushing a breeze
Afro combs were once seen as the enemy and the epitome of 'pain is beauty and beauty is pain'. I don’t know many Afro-haired girlies who were not tender-headed growing up. In fact, I have vivid memories of sitting down in front of the TV, as my mum stood up behind me (or an aunty that could braid) firmly gripping my head still. Every time I ducked, scurried, or moaned through hair-pulling-agony I would get a “Stop moving, it will hurt more”… Core memory.
Brushing my hair was truly one of the most anxiety-driving tasks of the day. Thankfully, my tender-headed days are long gone as I’ve mastered detangling using a combination of the right products and the right tools.
Curly girls assemble, this is your ultimate hair guide.
Afro hair is delicate and can easily get tangled due to those beautifully tight coils intertwining with one another. Depending on your hairstyle, Afro hair may need to be combed through and detangled in order to maintain its health and overall look. However, you should always comb your Afro when wet, preferably when you are midway through conditioning it.
Hair is likely at its softest state at this point, so combing now will avoid unnecessary tension and pulling, which can cause breakage. Additionally, it will help spread the product more evenly, so it’s a win-win.
Afro combs have not just worked as a very useful tool to style and protect Afro hair but also as a political emblem, placed on Afro hair as an accessory, which symbolised comradeship as well as being somewhat of a middle finger to hair discrimination and racial oppression.
What to consider when looking for an afro comb?
Before you start looking for for the perfect Afro comb for your coils, it's crucial to understand your hair's specific needs. Coily hair comes in a spectrum of textures, from tight coils to loose curls. Knowing your hair type will help you choose a comb that complements your coils and makes styling a breeze.
The spacing and design of a comb's teeth play a vital role in detangling and styling coily hair. Here's a breakdown of the types of combs and how they can work for you:
- Wide-Tooth Comb: A wide-tooth comb is a staple for coily hair. Its broad teeth help detangle without causing breakage or unnecessary stress on your curls. Opt for one with smooth, rounded teeth to minimise friction.
- Double-Sided Comb: Double-sided combs offer versatility. They typically have wide teeth on one side and finer teeth on the other. This is perfect for both detangling and defining your coils.
- Detangling Brush: Some prefer a detangling brush with flexible bristles designed to glide through coily hair effortlessly. Look for one with widely spaced bristles to prevent breakage.
- Metal Pick Comb: Metal pick combs are popular for lift and volume. They're perfect for fluffing out your coils, but use them with caution to avoid damaging your hair.
What are the best materials for afro combs?
Afro combs are clearly a cultural staple and super practical, but which ones are worthy of combing through your curls and coils? The most popular materials are metal, plastic, and wood, but you'll want to make sure it's strong enough to do the job (I’ve been known to break a comb or two in my day, so something that can handle all that volume is key).
Some think that metal combs encourage static energy, and you know what that means — more frizz. If this is the case, wooden ones are a popular alternative as they often help reduce that static, hair breakage and further damage. “The porous nature of wood absorbs and redistributes natural oils and maintains healthy hair. Wooden tips also gently massage your scalp, stimulating blood flow, which over time promotes hair growth.” says celebrity hairstylist Charlotte Mensah.
For more from Glamour UK Beauty Writer Shei Mamona, follow her on Instagram @sheimamona
If you don’t live near a Pak’s store then we have gathered the best Afro combs and picks to add to your virtual basket right now and make wash days much smoother:
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn how we test.
Best triple sided comb
This three way comb comes in an amber effect and is perfect for styling, defining and detangling different coily patterns without heavy pulling or tugging.
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Best metal comb
This metal comb is made of carbon fiber material which is resistant to high temperature, friction, corrosion, light and durable. The unique fist shaped handle design fits the palm of the hand and feels comfortable, giving you a stable grip and it just looks great.
Save when you shop for the best afro combs with these Amazon discount codes.
Best for protecting curl pattern
This comb effortlessly and gently detangles, teases and volumises thick, curly and afro hair wether wet or dry.
Save when you shop for the best afro combs with these The Body Shop discount codes.
Best anti-breaker afro comb
This comb is designed with a flexible material that allows it to comb through the coilyest curls to detangle while reducing snagging. Its' extra-long teeth give maximum control and comfort as well as helping create volume for styling.
Save when you shop for the best afro combs with these Look Fantastic discount codes.
Best widetooth afro comb
This Green Sandalwood comb is handcrafted and hand-polished for the smoothest and most seamless finish. It’s anti-static and anti-snag and it just glides through hair smoothly and delicately, while distributing the hairs’ natural oils and product evenly throughout. The bonus is in the scent, smells so good.
Best afro comb for detangling
This durable wide-tooth comb is ideal for hair for 3c-4c curls in need of detangling in the shower, designed to minimise snagging or breakage. The hook at the end makes it for ease in-shower storage to help you distribute conditioner or hair mask evenly. Another wash-day hero.
Save when you shop for the best afro combs with these Sephora discount codes.
Best afro comb for volumising curls
This delicate pink pick is specially designed to add volume to your curls effortlessly. It has an ergonomic handle and long teeth and its incredibly efficient in detangling.
Save when you shop for the best afro combs with these Look Fantastic discount codes.
Save when you shop for the best afro combs with these Sephora discount codes.
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Best afro comb with double-layered bristles
This double layered bristle comb is made with a durable non-slip grip material ideal to pick roots, detangle and add volume with ease.
Save when you shop for the best afro combs with these Boots discount codes.
Save when you shop for the best afro combs with these Amazon discount codes.
Best bamboo afro comb
This vegan and eco-conscious bamboo comb not only detangles hair smoothly but also helps you distribute your hair’s natural oils and moisture, without too much pulling or tugging.
Save when you shop for the best afro combs with these Cult Beauty discount codes.
Best budget afro comb
Afro combs don't have to cost an arm and leg. This one effortlessly teases and detangle hair and it's only £2. Bargain.
Save when you shop for the best afro combs with these Boots discount codes.
