From: Amily on
Brushes and combs are used to organize and untangle the hair,
encouraging all of the strands to lie in the same direction and
removing debris such as lint, dandruff, or hairs that have already
shed from their follicles but continue to cling to the other hairs.

There are all manner of detangling tools available in a wide variety
of price ranges. Combs come in all shapes and sizes and all manner of
materials including plastics, wood, and horn. Similarly, brushes also
come in all sizes and shapes, including various paddle shapes. Most
benefit from using some form of a wide tooth comb for detangling. Most
physicians advise against sharing hair care instruments like combs and
clips, to prevent spreading hair conditions like dandruff and head
lice.

The historical dictum to brush hair with one hundred strokes every day
is somewhat archaic, dating from a time when hair was washed less
frequently; the brushstrokes would spread the scalp's natural oils
down through the hair, creating a protective effect. Now, because hair
is typically brushed

However, this does not apply when the natural oils have been washed
off by frequent shampoos. Also, hairbrushes are now usually made with
rigid plastic bristles instead of the natural boar's bristles that
were once standard; the plastic bristles increase the likelihood of
actually injuring the scalp and hair with excessively vigorous
brushing.
[edit] Drying

Hair dryers speed the drying process of hair by blowing air, which is
usually heated, over the wet hair shaft to accelerate the rate of
water evaporation.

Excessive heat may increase the rate of shaft-splitting or other
damage to the hair. Hair dryer diffusers can be used to widen the
stream of air flow so it is weaker but covers a larger area of the
hair.

Hair dryers can also be used as a tool to sculpt the hair to a very
slight degree. Repeated blow drying can slowly train the hair
follicles to grow towards the desired direction. Proper technique
involves aiming the dryer such that the air does not blow onto the
face or scalp, which can cause burns.
[edit] Braiding and “Updos”

Tight or frequent braiding may pull at the hair roots and cause
traction alopecia. Rubber bands with metal clasps or tight clips,
which bend the hair shaft at extreme angles, can also have the same
effect.

If hair is pinned too tightly, or the whole updo slips causing pulling
on the hair in the follicle at the hair root are other scenarios that
can cause aggravation to the hair follicle and result in headaches.
Although many African- Americans use braiding extensions as a form of
convenience, it is important not to keep the braids up longer than
needed to avoid hair breakage or hair loss.
[edit] An industry

Hair styling is a major world industry, from the salon itself to
products, advertising, and even magazines on the subject.
[edit] Hairstyling tools

Styling tools may include hair irons (including flat, curling, and
crimping irons), hair dryers, hair rollers. Hair dressing might also
include the use of product to add texture, shine, curl, volume or hold
to a particular style.
[edit] Hairstyling products

Styling products aside from shampoo and conditioner are many and
varied. Leave-in conditioner, conditioning treatments, mousse, gels,
lotions, waxes, creams, serums, oils, and sprays are used to change
the texture or shape of the hair, or to hold it in place in a certain
style. Applied properly, most styling products will not damage the
hair apart from drying it out; most styling products contain alcohols,
which can dissolve oils. Many hair products contain chemicals which
can cause build-up, resulting in dull hair or a change in perceived
texture.