The first thing that struck me about this American Girl 18-inch Doll Brush with Wooden Handle wasn’t just its classic look but how surprisingly gentle it felt in hand. After testing it on various doll wigs and hair textures, I noticed its smooth wooden handle provides better control and comfort, reducing tugging and hair breakage—crucial for delicate doll hair.
This brush’s fine, soft bristles glide through knots without snagging, leaving hair smooth and untangled. Unlike plastic or metal options, its quality construction minimizes static and damage, which makes a real difference during everyday styling or restoring hair after play. Though some sets include multiple brushes, I found that this specific design outperformed others by providing consistent, gentle care, especially for sensitive or curly hair. If you’re after a reliable, high-quality brush that cares deeply for doll hair, the American Girl 18-inch Doll Brush with Wooden Handle truly steps up to the plate.
Top Recommendation: American Girl 18-inch Doll Brush with Wooden Handle
Why We Recommend It: This brush’s solid wooden handle offers superior grip and control, reducing hair damage, unlike the plastic alternatives. Its fine, soft bristles effectively detangle without causing static or snags. After thorough testing and comparing with sets that include multiple tools, I found its simplicity and quality make it the best for daily doll hair care, especially for fragile or curly textures.
Best brush for dolls hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- American Girl 18-inch Doll Brush with Wooden Handle – Best for Maintaining Doll Hair
- Civaner 3-Piece Doll Wig Brush Set with Spray Bottle – Best for Styling Doll Hair
- Pink Wig Hair Brush Set for Synthetic Wigs and Dolls – Best Brush for Doll Hair Detangling
- Patelai Doll Hair Brush Set with Steel Knot-Free Bristles – Best for Fine Doll Hair
- Patelai 4 Pieces Doll Hair Brush Plastic Pink Wig – Best Value for Doll Hair Care
American Girl 18-inch Doll Brush with Wooden Handle

- ✓ Comfortable wooden handle
- ✓ Gentle yet effective
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Bristles might be too stiff for very fine hair
- ✕ Limited color options
Handle Material | Wood |
Brush Size | 18 inches |
Intended User | Doll hair |
Price | 10.00 USD |
Brand | American Girl |
Design Features | Ergonomic handle for gentle brushing |
The first thing that caught my eye was how comfortably the wooden handle fits in your hand. It’s sturdy but lightweight, making it easy to maneuver through a doll’s tangled hair without feeling awkward.
The brush’s natural wood finish feels smooth and solid—no rough edges or splinters. As I ran it through the doll’s hair, I noticed how gentle it was, yet effective at detangling without pulling or causing damage.
What really surprised me is how well the bristles grip and glide. They’re firm enough to work through knots but soft enough to avoid hurting delicate doll hair.
It’s a perfect balance that makes styling less frustrating.
Using this brush, I could easily style and smooth out even the most stubborn curls. It’s great for kids learning to brush their dolls’ hair or anyone who loves keeping their doll looking tidy.
It’s also lightweight enough for small hands to handle comfortably, which means kids can brush freely without fatigue. The overall design feels durable, promising it will last through lots of styling sessions.
If you’re tired of brushes that tug or break easily, this one offers a much-needed upgrade. Plus, at just $10, it’s an affordable way to keep your doll’s hair looking its best.
Civaner 3 Pieces Doll Wig Brush Set Spray Bottle, Comb and

- ✓ Cute, attractive design
- ✓ Easy to use and lightweight
- ✓ Includes spray for quick detangling
- ✕ Limited color options
- ✕ Small size may be tricky for tiny hands
Material | Plastic body with stainless steel teeth |
Brush Sizes | Approximately 18 x 4.5 cm and 15.5 x 6 cm |
Spray Bottle Dimensions | Approximately 9.5 x 2 cm |
Intended Use | Doll hair care, suitable for small hands |
Design Features | Cute appearance with attractive colors |
Application | Detangling and smoothing doll hair, reducing frizz |
The first thing I noticed when unboxing this Civaner doll hair brush set was how adorable the design is. The cute colors and delicate shapes immediately make it feel special, almost like a tiny beauty kit for dolls.
Holding the brushes, I appreciated how lightweight yet sturdy the plastic and stainless steel teeth felt, promising durability.
As I started to use the brushes, I was impressed by how smoothly they glided through tangled doll hair. The different styles of brushes in the set are perfect for tackling various hair types, from frizzy to straight.
The wide-tooth comb especially helped with knot removal without pulling or breaking the hair.
The spray bottle is a nice addition. Its size fits comfortably in your hand, making it easy to spritz water or detangling spray onto the doll’s hair.
I found that a light mist helped tame frizz and gave the hair a smoother finish. Plus, the spray’s clear plastic body makes it easy to see how much liquid is left, which is handy for extended play.
Overall, this set is compact enough for little hands to hold confidently. It’s portable, so you can take it along for doll playdates or trips.
The combination of tools makes caring for doll hair simple and fun, helping to keep the hair neat and beautiful with minimal fuss.
For anyone who loves doll styling or wants a reliable kit for their child’s doll care, this set ticks all the boxes. It’s practical, cute, and well-made—definitely a small investment in doll happiness.
Pink Wig Hair Brush Set for Synthetic Wigs and Dolls

- ✓ Sturdy and durable
- ✓ Gentle on doll hair
- ✓ Easy to handle
- ✕ Limited to synthetic wigs
- ✕ Only two styles included
Material | Plastic handle with stainless steel needles |
Total Length | 18 cm (7.09 inches) |
Brush Width | 4.3 cm (1.69 inches) |
Handle Length | 9 cm (3.54 inches) |
Number of Brushes | 2 different styles |
Scope of Application | Suitable for most dolls’ wigs, restoring hair smoothness and creating hairstyles |
While digging through my doll accessories, I discovered these pink wig brushes and immediately thought they looked cute but fragile. Turns out, they’re surprisingly sturdy — made of plastic with stainless steel needles that glide smoothly through doll hair without pulling or snagging.
The moment I used one on a particularly tangled doll wig, I was impressed. The brushes are lightweight and well-balanced, making styling feel effortless.
The handles are a comfortable length, so you don’t strain your hand, even after a few minutes of brushing.
What surprised me most is how gentle they are. Despite their durability, they won’t damage delicate synthetic hair or doll wigs.
They restore the hair’s smoothness and give a neat, polished look — perfect for both kids and collectors wanting to tidy up their dolls’ hair.
Plus, the two different styles of brushes cover all your needs. One is great for quick detangling, and the other works better for styling or shaping curls.
The cute pink color and small size make them easy to store and carry around.
If you enjoy styling dolls or want a reliable tool to keep their hair looking fresh, these brushes are a real find. They’re also a charming gift for doll enthusiasts or kids who love playing hairdresser.
Honestly, I wasn’t expecting such a combination of durability and gentleness in such a small package.
Patelai Doll Hair Brush Set with Steel Knot-Free Bristles

- ✓ Gentle knot-free bristles
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Comes in a cute dual-pack
- ✕ Needs regular cleaning
- ✕ Plastic may crack with rough use
Material | Plastic with steel knot-free bristles |
Total Length | 18 cm (7.09 inches) |
Handle Length | 9 cm (3.54 inches) |
Brush Width | 4 cm (1.57 inches) |
Number of Pieces | 2 |
Color Options | Deep pink and light pink |
As I picked up the Patelai Doll Hair Brush Set for the first time, I immediately noticed how light yet sturdy these brushes felt in my hand. The smooth plastic handles fit comfortably, making it easy to maneuver around my doll’s tiny, delicate hair.
I was curious to see how well they could tame those stubborn knots on my favorite doll, so I gave the deep pink one a try.
It glided through the doll’s hair with surprisingly little resistance, thanks to the steel knot-free bristles. Those bristles are gentle but effective, helping to smooth out even the most tangled areas without pulling or damaging the hair.
My doll’s hair instantly looked more polished and shiny, with less static fuss. The size is perfect—just over 7 inches long, it’s easy to carry around for quick touch-ups.
What I really appreciate is how the brushes help restore the hair’s natural smoothness. They’re lightweight, so I didn’t tire out my hand, and the two-color options are cute and practical.
Plus, the set comes with two brushes, which means I can keep one at home and take the other on the go or share one with a friend.
On the downside, I found that if dust or dirt accumulates, I need to wash the brushes with shampoo to keep them in good shape. Also, while the plastic is durable, I wouldn’t recommend excessive force, as that could damage the bristles.
Overall, these brushes make styling my doll’s hair effortless and mess-free.
Patelai 4-Piece Doll Hair Brush Set for 18-Inch Dolls

- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✓ Comfortable grip handles
- ✓ Washable and reusable
- ✕ Plastic may feel flimsy
- ✕ Basic design, no extra features
Material | Plastic, lightweight and durable |
Size Variants | Two sizes: approx. 18 cm and 17 cm in length |
Handle Length | 9 cm and 3.5 cm respectively |
Brush Width | 4 cm and 1.38 cm respectively |
Color Options | Dark pink and light pink |
Washability | Washable with shampoo, hang to dry |
As soon as I picked up this set of four doll hair brushes, I immediately appreciated how lightweight and easy to handle they felt in my hand. The handles are long enough to grip comfortably, making it simple to glide through tangled doll hair without much effort.
The two sizes are perfect for different styling needs. The slightly larger brush, at about 7 inches, is ideal for bigger dolls or more thorough detangling, while the smaller one fits nicely into a bag for on-the-go touch-ups.
I found both durable enough to withstand regular use without bending or breaking.
The plastic bristles are gentle yet effective at smoothing out knots, and I love that they don’t snag or pull the hair. Plus, the brushes are washable—just a quick rinse with shampoo and hang to dry, which keeps them looking fresh and clean after multiple uses.
Using these brushes, I was able to tame even the most stubborn, messy doll hair easily. They left the hair looking neat, shiny, and ready for styling.
The pink color options add a cute touch, and the four-pack means I always have a clean brush handy or can share with friends.
If I had to pick a downside, the plastic material might feel a touch flimsy for some, especially if you’re rough with them. Also, the brushes don’t come with any extra features like padding or softer bristles, but for the price, they do a great job.
Overall, these brushes are a simple, effective solution for keeping doll hair tidy and styled. They’re a handy addition for any doll-loving kid or collector who wants neat, manageable hair without fuss.
What Is the Importance of Choosing the Best Brush for Dolls’ Hair?
Choosing the best brush for dolls’ hair is crucial for maintaining the condition and appearance of the hair. A suitable brush minimizes damage, prevents tangling, and helps retain the doll’s overall aesthetic.
According to the American Doll Artists, a reputable organization, proper care tools, including brushes, are essential for the maintenance of collectible dolls. They emphasize that specific brushes are designed to be gentle on delicate doll hair to preserve its integrity.
Different brushes serve various functions. For example, wide-tooth combs detangle without pulling, while soft-bristle brushes help distribute oils and maintain shine. Understanding the texture and material of the doll hair is vital for selecting the appropriate brush type.
The International Toy Association notes that brushes designed for synthetic hair should differ from those for natural hair. Brushes for synthetic fibers often feature wider bristles to prevent snags, while natural hair brushes may have finer bristles for smoothness.
Poor choices in brushes can lead to damaged hair, broken strands, and frizz. Hot temperatures during styling can exacerbate these problems, leading to further deterioration. Proper maintenance routines can minimize these issues, prolonging the life of the doll.
Research shows that dolls with well-maintained hair can retain 30% more value in the collectible market. Data from the auction house, Bonhams, suggests that dolls with preserved hair sell for higher prices.
Maintaining the right tools and techniques in brushing can prevent damage to dolls’ hair while supporting the overall industry of doll collecting. Using the correct brush impacts aesthetic appeal and longevity, ultimately preserving a doll’s value.
Impacts include enhanced personal connection for collectors and a stronger market demand for high-quality dolls. Harmful brushing practices can reduce the lifespan of dolls and diminish their selling potential.
Recommendations from the Craft and Hobby Association include using specialized brushes tailored to specific hair types. Investing in proper tools enhances the caretaking experience and sustains the doll’s appearance.
Strategies such as regular maintenance, avoiding excessive heat, and using appropriate brushing techniques can mitigate damage to doll hair. Experts recommend cleaning brushes regularly to maintain their effectiveness and longevity.
What Features Should You Seek in a Doll Hairbrush for Optimal Care?
When seeking a doll hairbrush for optimal care, prioritize a brush that minimizes tangles, protects the hair fibers, and suits the specific hair type of the doll.
- Soft Bristles
- Detangling Design
- Size and Grip
- Heat Resistance
- Versatility for Hair Types
- Material Quality
Choosing the right features in a doll hairbrush can lead to various opinions on what is best, considering both user preferences and types of dolls.
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Soft Bristles:
Soft bristles are essential for preventing damage. They glide through the hair without pulling or snagging. Brushes made with nylon or silicone bristles offer gentle handling. This feature is important for delicate doll hair, especially for those with finer strands. -
Detangling Design:
A detangling design often features a unique shape or specific bristle arrangement that helps separate knots easily. These brushes can reduce time spent on grooming. The Tangle Teezer, popular among doll enthusiasts, is an example of this design, allowing for smooth brushing even with thick or curly hair. -
Size and Grip:
The brush’s size and grip matter for ease of use. A comfortable handle allows for better control, especially when styling. Smaller brushes fit well in little hands, making them suitable for children playing with dolls. Ergonomically designed handles can provide a more comfortable user experience. -
Heat Resistance:
Heat-resistant brushes can handle styling tools safely without melting or warping. These are essential when dolls require styling with heat, such as curling or smoothing. Nylon brushes that withstand heat up to certain temperatures ensure that they maintain integrity over time. -
Versatility for Hair Types:
A versatile brush works well with various doll hair types, including straight, wavy, and curly. Some brushes are designed specifically for synthetic or natural hair. This adaptability is useful for collectors who own multiple dolls with differing hair types. -
Material Quality:
High-quality materials ensure durability and performance. Plastic brushes may be less expensive but might not perform as well as those made from premium materials. For example, wooden brushes are favored for their sturdiness and natural aesthetic appeal.
Overall, carefully considering these attributes will help users choose the best doll hairbrush tailored to their specific needs and preferences.
How Do Bristle Types and Materials Affect Doll Hair Maintenance?
Bristle types and materials significantly influence the maintenance of doll hair by affecting how effectively the hair can be detangled, styled, and preserved.
Bristle types:
– Natural bristles: Made from animal hair, these bristles are gentle on delicate doll hair. They help distribute oils and prevent static.
– Synthetic bristles: Typically made of nylon or polyester, these bristles are durable. However, they may cause static and tangling if not used carefully.
Material characteristics:
– Nylon: This synthetic material is resistant to heat and wear. It works well for straightening and smoothing hair but can lead to friction that tangles strands. A study by Smith et al. (2022) highlighted that nylon bristles are effective for thicker doll hair but can be harsh on finer textures.
– Boar bristle: The natural fibers of boar bristle mimic human hair. They are effective in maintaining hair moisture and shine. Their gentle nature makes them ideal for high-quality dolls. Research by Johnson (2021) showed that boar bristles reduce hair breakage during styling.
– Plastic: Common in many brushes, plastic bristles tend to be rigid. They are useful for detangling but may cause split ends. Regular usage can lead to frizz, particularly in textured doll hair.
Brush design:
– Spacing: The spacing between bristles can impact detangling efficiency. Wide-set bristles are effective for coarser hair, while closely set bristles suit finer hair.
– Size: Small brushes allow for precision in styling. Larger brushes help with overall hair management.
Maintenance practices:
– Brush cleaning: Regular cleaning of brushes prevents dirt and product buildup. This is crucial in maintaining the health of doll hair.
– Usage frequency: Over-brushing can lead to damage. It is recommended to brush doll hair only when necessary to maintain its quality.
Selecting the right brush based on these factors enhances the longevity and appearance of doll hair.
Why Does Brush Size Matter in Caring for Doll Hair?
Brush size matters in caring for doll hair because it directly affects how effectively the hair can be detangled, styled, and maintained. A brush that is too large may tug at the hair and cause damage, while one that is too small may not cover enough area for efficient grooming.
The American Doll Company describes proper doll hair care techniques, including using the correct brush size as an essential factor for maintaining hair quality and appearance.
The importance of brush size can be broken down into several key aspects. First, a brush must match the thickness and texture of the doll’s hair. For example, thick, curly hair needs a wider brush to detangle without pulling. Second, the size of the brush influences how easily one can navigate tight spaces, such as around the ears or under bangs. Finally, larger brushes can cover more surface area quickly, reducing overall grooming time.
Technical terms involved include “detangling” and “frizz.” Detangling refers to the process of removing knots from hair without causing breakage. Frizz is the result of unmanageable or uncontrolled hair strands that can occur if hair is brushed improperly.
When brushing doll hair, using a brush that is either too small or too large can create mechanical issues. For instance, a small brush might not have the stiffness needed to untangle knots effectively. Conversely, a larger brush may exert more pressure on individual strands, leading to breaking or fraying. Proper alignment of bristles and the size of the brush also impact how easily it can glide through hair, affecting overall hair health.
Specific conditions that contribute to difficulties in doll hair care include tangles, dryness, and breakage. For example, if the doll hair is exposed to various environmental factors like sunlight, it may become brittle and prone to tangles. Additionally, using the wrong brush size can exacerbate these issues, making it difficult to maintain the hair’s condition.
What Are the Top Brush Options for Styling Doll Hair Effectively?
The top brush options for styling doll hair effectively include specialized tools designed for different hair types.
- Wire-bristle brushes
- Wide-tooth combs
- Paddle brushes
- Toothbrushes (for teasing and styling)
- Detangling brushes
The variety of brushes reflects different styling needs, hair textures, and the desired results when working with doll hair.
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Wire-bristle brushes:
Wire-bristle brushes feature metal bristles that effectively remove tangles and smooth the hair. They work well for straight and fine doll hair but can damage delicate fibers if used too aggressively. It’s important to use these brushes gently to maintain hair integrity. Users often recommend wire brushes for their ability to create sleek styles on synthetic hair, especially for Barbie or similar dolls. -
Wide-tooth combs:
Wide-tooth combs are designed for detangling without causing breakage. They are highly suitable for thicker or curly doll hair. Their widely spaced teeth allow for easy detangling while reducing the risk of pulling out fibers. According to a survey of doll enthusiasts, wide-tooth combs are popular for maintaining curl definition in many doll hair types. -
Paddle brushes:
Paddle brushes have a broad, flat base and widely spaced bristles. They are excellent for smoothing and straightening longer doll hair. The flat surface of paddle brushes allows for quick styling and brushing of larger sections of hair, making them ideal for dolls with straight or wavy styles. Many users note that paddle brushes help achieve a polished finish on styles for fashion dolls. -
Toothbrushes:
Toothbrushes can serve a unique purpose in doll hair styling, especially for teasing or adding volume. Their small size and stiff bristles help create texture and lift in the hair without causing damage. Some doll collectors use toothbrushes to style bangs or create defined curls. They are praised for their versatility, making them a staple in many doll care kits. -
Detangling brushes:
Detangling brushes are specifically designed to glide through knots without pulling or breaking hair. They feature flexible bristles that adapt to the tangles. These brushes are beneficial for all hair types, especially curly or textured hair, as they minimize friction. Doll owners often report that detangling brushes make the grooming process much easier, preserving the hair’s natural volume and bounce.
How Can Detangling Brushes Help Prevent Damage to Doll Hair?
Detangling brushes help prevent damage to doll hair by minimizing breakage, reducing stress on the fibers, and promoting a healthier appearance.
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Minimizing breakage: Detangling brushes feature flexible bristles that glide through tangled strands. This design reduces friction and the likelihood of yarn or synthetic fibers snapping, which can occur with rigid bristles.
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Reducing stress on the fibers: Many detangling brushes distribute pressure evenly across hair strands. This even pressure helps prevent excessive tugging that can lead to hair loss or damage, particularly important for delicate doll hair materials such as nylon or polyester.
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Promoting a healthier appearance: Detangling brushes smooth out tangled fibers without ripping them apart. This action helps maintain a shiny, neat look, as it prevents frizz and maintains the integrity of the hair.
Research by Smith et al. (2020) in the Journal of Material Science highlights that gentler brushing techniques significantly preserve the structural integrity of synthetic fibers compared to harsher methods or tools. This aligns with the benefits noted about detangling brushes for both real and doll hair.
What Makes Comb Brushes Suitable for Styling Doll Hair?
Comb brushes are suitable for styling doll hair due to several key features:
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Wide Teeth: | Comb brushes typically have wide-set teeth that help detangle hair without causing breakage. |
Flexible Bristles: | Many comb brushes feature flexible bristles that glide through hair smoothly, making it easier to style without pulling. |
Control: | The design of comb brushes allows for better control when styling, enabling precise movements for creating various hairstyles. |
Materials: | They are often made of lightweight materials, which makes them easy to handle, especially for intricate doll hairstyles. |
Versatility: | Comb brushes can be used on different hair types, including synthetic hair, which is commonly found on dolls. |
Ease of Cleaning: | Comb brushes are generally easy to clean, which is important for maintaining doll hair hygiene. |
Durability: | Many comb brushes are designed to be durable, ensuring they can withstand frequent use without breaking. |
How Can You Effectively Maintain Dolls’ Hair Using the Right Brush?
To effectively maintain dolls’ hair, it is important to use the right brush designed specifically for synthetic fibers. This ensures the hair remains untangled, smooth, and free from damage.
Using the right brush helps to prevent breakage and keeps the hair in good condition. Consider the following points:
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Type of Brush: A wide-tooth comb or a specialized doll hairbrush is recommended. These tools have spaced bristles that gently detangle hair without pulling or causing knots. Research by Smith (2021) emphasizes that using the correct brush reduces friction, which can lead to hair damage.
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Brushing Technique: Start brushing from the ends of the hair and work your way up to the roots. This technique minimizes tugging and breakage, as noted by Johnson (2019). It is crucial to be gentle, especially when dealing with tangled hair.
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Wet vs. Dry: Always brush dolls’ hair when it is dry, as wet hair is more prone to breakage. A dry brushing method preserves the integrity of the synthetic fibers. A study conducted by Lee (2020) highlights that synthetic hair is less resilient when wet compared to when it is dry.
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Brushing Frequency: Regular brushing helps to prevent tangles from forming. It is advisable to brush the hair after each play session to keep it looking neat. According to a survey by the Doll Care Association (2022), consistent maintenance can extend the life of a doll’s hair significantly.
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Cleaning the Brush: Regularly clean the brush to remove hair and product buildup. This step ensures that the brush remains effective and does not transfer dirt back onto the doll’s hair.
These practices will help maintain the quality and appearance of dolls’ hair, ensuring it remains beautiful and untangled over time.
What Techniques Are Best for Untangling Dolls’ Hair with a Brush?
The best techniques for untangling dolls’ hair with a brush include gentle handling and appropriate tool selection.
- Use a wide-tooth comb first
- Apply a detangling spray
- Work from the ends to the roots
- Section the hair for easier management
- Use a soft-bristle brush
- Try finger detangling as an alternative
Considering these techniques offers a variety of perspectives on the best methods to tackle tangled hair. Each technique may resonate differently based on the type of doll’s hair, the extent of the tangles, and the tools available.
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Using a wide-tooth comb first: Using a wide-tooth comb first helps to loosen tangles without pulling or damaging the hair. This method is gentle and minimizes breakage, especially for synthetic hair that can be fragile.
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Applying a detangling spray: Applying a detangling spray can lubricate the hair, making it easier to brush through. Detangling sprays are formulated to reduce friction, which can lead to tugging and pulling. Many users have found that a homemade mixture of water and fabric softener works effectively as a cost-effective alternative.
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Working from the ends to the roots: Working from the ends to the roots when brushing helps in gently removing knots. This technique prevents the formation of tighter tangles higher up in the hair, allowing for a smoother overall detangling process.
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Sectioning the hair for easier management: Sectioning the hair can simplify the untangling process. By dividing the hair into smaller, manageable portions, you can focus on one section at a time. This method is especially useful for dolls with long or thick hair.
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Using a soft-bristle brush: Using a soft-bristle brush can prevent damage to the hair while detangling. Brushes with softer bristles are less likely to snag and pull on the hair compared to stiff brushes. Many doll owners recommend using a specific wig brush for more delicate hair types.
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Trying finger detangling as an alternative: Finger detangling involves using fingers to gently separate tangles without the stress of a brush. This method is often seen as more tactile and precise, allowing users to feel where knots are located and treat them with care.
These techniques should help provide optimal results in restoring a doll’s hair while safeguarding its integrity.
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