Why should you brush your hair upside down?

Pulling a brush through tangled hair from the top can result in increased friction and breakage

How do you comb your hair? (Source: Freepik)

To groom well, combing your hair is considered a necessary practice. But is there a correct way to go about it? Instead of backcombing your hair which could contribute to receding hairline, brushing upside down is being recommended. Is it worth trying? Here’s what we found out.

According to an Instagram page Hair Saviours, brushing hair gently from bottom to top is beneficial for hair health for several reasons:

Tangle prevention: Starting at the bottom helps to detangle knots and snarls more effectively. This reduces the stress and tension on the hair, preventing breakage and split ends.

Less hair pulling: Brushing from the bottom reduces the chances of pulling out hair from the roots, which can cause discomfort and potentially lead to hair loss over time.

Reduced breakage: Hair is more susceptible to breakage when wet. Starting from the bottom when the hair is dry minimises breakage, allowing for a smoother and healthier brushing experience.

Gentle on the scalp: Brushing gently from the bottom is kinder to the scalp, preventing unnecessary irritation. It also stimulates the scalp’s blood circulation, promoting overall hair health.

Maintains hair structure: Brushing in the direction of hair growth helps maintain the hair’s natural structure and alignment. This can contribute to a neater appearance and reduce the risk of frizz.

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Remember to use a good-quality, wide-toothed comb or a brush with flexible bristles to minimise stress on the hair.

Are you vigorously brushing your hair? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Additionally, it’s advisable to avoid brushing wet hair, as it is more prone to breakage when saturated with water.

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Are these reasons good enough?

Dr Rinky Kapoor, consultant dermatologist, cosmetic dermatologist, and dermato-surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics, brushing hair from bottom to top is advisable, primarily to minimise damage and reduce the risk of breakage.

When you begin at the ends, you’re able to address knots more gently, preventing unnecessary stress on the hair shaft. Pulling a brush through tangled hair from the top can result in increased friction and breakage.

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“Hair is more prone to tangling and knotting at the ends, especially if it’s long. Starting at the bottom allows you to detangle the ends first, gradually working your way up to the roots. This method is particularly beneficial for those with curly or easily tangled hair,” said Dr Kapoor.

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By working from the bottom, you’re also preventing the accumulation of tangles at the roots, which can be more challenging to untangle and may cause discomfort.

Additionally, starting at the bottom distributes natural oils from the scalp along the length of the hair, promoting overall hair health and shine. “This method of brushing is especially recommended for individuals with fragile or damaged hair, as it minimises the risk of further harm and supports the maintenance of strong, healthy locks.