15 Best Boar Bristle Brushes for Every Hair Type (2024)

We don't know how to tell you this, but one hairbrush probably isn't enough. Some are made for detangling, while others are perfect for defining curls. But if you’re aiming for a sleek style without the hair damage, you’ll want to pick up a boar bristle brush.

“Nothing compares to classic boar brushes when it comes to their extraordinary shine-intensifying, smoothing, and finishing capabilities,” Whitney Eaddy, celebrity hairstylist and founder of Juices & Botanics, says. She notes that this type of brush is known for its gentle bristles that “create tension in styling without damaging hair.”

Not only can you achieve a great style with a boar bristle brush (or vegan option), but you will also keep your hair healthy. As Carolyn Aronson, a licensed hairstylist and the founder of It’s a 10 Haircare, explains, “Natural boar hair closely mimics the composition of human hair due to the keratin protein. This allows it to spread beneficial oils from root to tip on your strands.” The best part is that both pros agree they can be used on all hair types and textures.

Although traditional boar bristle brushes have many benefits, it’s good to keep in mind that they are still made from an animal by-product and might not work with all lifestyle choices. That being said, there are amazing vegan versions you can try instead for the same results. Whether you’re in the market for a new hairbrush or just want to try something new, we’ve rounded up 15 boar bristle hairbrushes, including great vegan alternatives. Shop them all ahead.

This vegan pick is also suitable for all hair types and textures. The combo of vegan bristles and soft ballpoint tips means you can smooth and lightly detangle.

One of the best things about boar and boar-like bristle brushes is that they do a good job of conditioning your hair. Eaddy notes that these brushes "can naturally condition hair by transferring oils from the roots to ends and help add shine by simultaneously closing the cuticle and smoothing the hair."

This detangle and style brush is also vegan! The combination of bristles helps to minimize breakage. Plus, it comes in recyclable packaging.

A round brush is like a magic wand for blowouts, and Aronson regularly uses them in her work. "I find them really useful during heat styling, such as blow-drying, on hair that is damp or dry," she says.

This brush is a mix of nylon and boar bristles, each serving a different purpose to keep your hair and scalp in tiptop shape. The shorter boar bristles distribute your scalp's natural oils, while the longer nylon ones stimulate scalp circulation.

If you have shorter hair, this two-inch round brush is just the thing to help you get volume. It's perfect for styles like the bob or its cousin, the lob.

Get the whole spa experience with this kit that includes a boar bristle brush, wooden comb, and spa headband. The comb gently detangles, while this brush conditions your scalp.

It may be on the pricier side, but this sustainable mahogany brush will definitely give you the shine and bounce you're looking for—especially if you're wearing a shorter style.

This beloved brand's IntelliFlex bristles were made to easily detangle hair without sacrificing the scalp benefits of a classic boar bristle brush.

Whether you're using your brush to smooth away frizz or get your best blowout, one thing Aronson cautions is that it's best to avoid brushing extremely wet hair. "I would recommend staying away from using a boar bristle brush on hair that's soaking wet, as this can cause breakage," she says.

This larger round boar bristle brush is perfect for anyone with longer hair. It'll easily help you add volume and shine as you run it through with your blow dryer.

Dealing with product buildup? This paddle brush with boar bristles is clutch when it comes to getting rid of dust and debris on your scalp. Plus, the cushion base helps minimize tugging to protect your hair.

Eaddy recommends using a boar bristle brush as a pre-shampoo treatment. "The boar brush won't actually replace your shampoo, but it does contribute to the hair-washing process," she explains. "As the hair is brushed, the bristles capture any lint or dirt found in the hair. The next time you're due for a wash, pre-cleanse your hair with a few strokes of your boar bristle brush."

A boar brush is also handy to add the finishing touches to your hairstyle. "Boar bristle brushes are hands down the best tool for creating polished strands, since they are an effective yet gentle styling and grooming tool that offers a finishing touch on any smooth style. The soft bristles glide easier over your strands and can also help reduce static and frizz," Eaddy says.

According to Eaddy, boar bristle brushes are great for all hair types and textures, even for sensitive kids. And a pro tip for the curly girls: "Always brush your hair in sections from the ends to roots, especially if your hair has a tighter curl pattern, to avoid any tangling," she says.