A vibrating hair brush is a brush with a low-speed vibrator inside it that is used to comb human hair. The vibrations are said to help untangle hard-to-comb tresses and provide a massage for the user. Most vibrating hair brushes are battery-operated.
There is more than one way to use this type of hair brush. The brush can be used on the hair with the vibrator turned off, or the back of the brush can be used to provide a vibrating massage. Many models have raised bumps on the back of the brush that can be combed over the head and neck while the brush is vibrating. The massage is said to stimulate blood flow to the scalp as well as provide a pleasurable sensation.
Another way to use a vibrating hair brush is to brush the hair while the brush is vibrating. The vibrations are reported to help detangle hair as well as add volume, much as a vibrating mascara wand is supposed to lift and separate lashes. Because the vibrator is so gentle, the movements of the brush aren't fierce enough to re-tangle hair.
Since these brushes already has a dual use, some manufactures have tried to add other features to turn a brush into a multi-purpose tool for hair care. Some brushes are advertised as emitting infrared light as well as vibrations, while others are touted to be waterproof for use in the shower. Other vibrating hair brushes are marketed for use as personal massaging devices.
Like most brushes for human hair, a vibrating brush can have hard or soft bristles. The style of bristles and the shape of the brush vary depending on what kind of hairstyle the brush is made for. For example, a paddle brush is usually best for long, straight hair, while a roller brush is better for short bobs.
Though many vibrating brushes are marketed towards people with especially fine hair, several beauty and style guides do not recommend a vibrating hair brush as your first choice for basic hair care. Instead, before brushing, the user should first untangle her hair using a straight comb. Only when all the tangles have been removed should a vibrating hair brush be used, or else the hair may become damaged, some experts say.