24-03-2025
This Old-School Luxury Hairbrush Is Suddenly Everywhere On TikTok
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This splurgeworthy hairbrush is having a Gen Z revival — and we found some alternatives.
For as long as I can remember, a Mason Pearson hairbrush has been the hair care status symbol. In middle school, the sight of one on a bathroom counter was the ultimate indicator of fanciness. 30 years later, I still covet this British heritage brand hair brush, but it appears that I am now not alone. In recent months, the Mason Pearson brush has acquired a passionate Gen Z fanbase that has taken their fervor to TikTok.
A huge part of this brush's appeal is its timeless construction and gorgeous craftsmanship. The brand has a few brush options, including one made solely of boar bristles, but the combination boar and nylon bristle brush is currently de rigueur. According to legions of users, the boar bristles are notorious for smoothing out even the frizziest of hair, leaving it shiny and soft, while the stiff nylon bristles stimulate the scalp, which can, in turn, help with growth and overall scalp health.
The Washington Post recently noted the brush's newfound popularity among young folks. The women they interviewed all pointed out that along with the inevitable clout that accompanies this pricey hairbrush, 'the volume, shine, and the ability to go longer between washes makes it arguably worth the price tag.'
Despite the fanfare, I've never been one to commit to pricey hair care products, which is why I'm on the hunt for a similar hairbrush inspired by the classic. Luckily, there are a fair amount out there.
Below are the highly-rated doppelgangers I found at various price points — I even found an option on Etsy for just $22.71 —so you can pick one up for yourself (or treat yourself to the OG).
1. Denman Style and Shine brush
Amazon
The highly popular and significantly more affordable Denman brush is one of the internet's most popular alternatives to the original Mason Pearson. It features a mix of nylon and natural boar bristles that are dispersed throughout the brush head in a very similar manner to that of the Mason Pearson — it's safe to say reviewers love it.
Promising reviews: "This brush is amazing! My hair has never looked as soft as it does when I use this brush. The bristles get every part of your hair and leaves it looking shiny." — Alexis
"For a natural way to smooth and shine your hair, this boar bristle hair brush is a great choice. It helps distribute oils from the scalp, leaving hair feeling healthier and looking glossy. Plus, it's gentle enough for daily use." — REQM
Get it from Amazon for $27.95+ (available in two sizes).
2. Briogeo vegan boar bristle brush
Amazon
If animal products are not for you, then try this vegan option from Biogeo. It can smooth and detangle all hair types — straight, wavy, curly and coiled — with ease. It can help to keep your locks and scalp healthy thanks to its gentle massaging prowess and you can keep your conscience clear knowing it's made with cruelty-free materials.
Promising reviews: "This one reviewed well and I took a chance with it, not wanting to go the boar bristle option. It absolutely paid off, is a fantastic brush, smooths without frizz - highly recommended for straight-wavy thick hair." — Vanessa P.
"This is my all time favorite brush. It's perfect to brush out hair without causing damage. It also helps with frizz" — Sammy the Cat Jr.
4. Varis smoothing brush
This lightweight brush features a soft-touch handle that feels comfortable, a must when working on a fancy updo.
Editorial director Kristen Aiken owns one and said, "My whole life, no one had ever taught me about the importance of scalp health — until I started experiencing a ton of shedding in my late 30s, which naturally concerned me. I had always used the free 'gift with purchase' mini plastic brush from my mom's Clinique purchases in the '90s and figured any brush that detangled my hair was just as good as all the others. But when I spoke to my dermatologist about my shedding concerns, she told me I needed a brush that would be gentler on my strands (those plastic Clinique bristles were breaking my hair) and also something that would stimulate my scalp."
She went on to explain that, "She recommended this Varis brush, and after using it regularly for a few minutes every night I've noticed a big difference. I have fine, wavy hair that fluffs up when I brush it, but the Varis brush eliminates extra static to keep it somewhat under control, too. I'm sure there are other great brushes that'll do the trick, but I've found that having a nice brush like this one made brushing a more regular part of my routine, and has cause significantly less shedding."
Promising review: "Feels fabulous on scalp. Works well on both wet and dry hair (I have very thick, long hair). I had been looking for the 'same brush' as I had purchased 20 years ago (for $250). And this is amazingly as close as I have found, and it feels just the same! I actually prefer the plastic handle versus the heavy wooden one - ladies, you all know every ounce counts in that checked bag when traveling." — Mitzi Kipnes
Amazon
This budget-friendly brush is beloved by reviewers on Amazon, who note that it leaves hair feeling silky smooth and that it can be used safely while blow-drying without warping. It also makes for a great gift. One reviewer pointed out that it's gentle on her fragile, graying hair, leaving even coarse, thick strands nice and shiny.
Promising reviews: " High quality. Hands down the best brush next to the mason Pearson brush. Great for thick hair, as well." — Eddie Kramer
"I've not stopped brushing my hair. It rubbed my scalp so nice. Each strand feels bushed. My scalp feels so clean after brushing and washing. Would totally buy again." — Ashley
Get it from Amazon for $47.95+ (available in three sizes).
6. Crown Affair The Brush No. 001
Sephora
I'm a big fan of Crown Affair products, and their combination boar and nylon bristle brush is high on my wishlist. The handcrafted beechwood handle adds to the luxurious look and feel, while the quality of the bristles is comparable to those of the Mason Pearson (according to users). I also love the sleek aesthetic, it's perfectly minimalist and Instagrammable.
Promising reviews: "100% worth every penny you can instantly feel the difference when brushing your hair with an expensive brush like this rather than a cheap drugstore brush. your hair deserves the best quality brush and ill probably never use another brush again." — SaryaRose
"Instant improvement! I have very oily and fine, straight hair. My hair always feels thin as well, and even after the first use I noticed more volume and the oils redistributed through my hair that gives me so much shine and body, and my hair continues to improve with use. Worth every penny!" — AllieG31
Get it from Sephora for $98.
7. Oribe flat brush
Amazon
For a bit of visual flair, take a peek at the custom-designed Italian resin handle on this Oribe brush. The boar bristles and rounded nylon pins will leave your hair looking shiny and sleek while also stimulating your scalp and distributing natural oils throughout for an ultra-polished (never greasy) look. Reviewers note that it's a great option for hair extensions!
Promising reviews: "My hairstylist is amazed .. she is buying one after I showed her mine. My hair has significantly improved!!! Way less maintenance. Saves so much time" — Alexandra Dominique Schmitt zermers
"I was recommended a boar bristle brush by my hairstylist. I searched through many on Amazon, and out of all reviews by Amazon and the website, I decided to go with this above all others. I was praying that due to the price of this brush it would be a miracle worker compared to the others out here….well I can happily say I LOVE this brush. If anything happens to my original I WILL be getting myself another one! I have felt with dry scalp and build up for the last year or two. My hair was starting to produce so much oil. Since I started using this my scalp has had no buildup, no dandruff, and believe it or not has made my hair soft, shiny and SO unbelievably healthy. I can't help but brush my hair all day (not a good thing ahaha) the bush is a turtle shell style medium weight and high quality. The bristles have not fallen out but it does get dirty easily like any brush would, so definitely clean it as much as possible to keep the quality! I got the larger brush and the size is perfect to fit in a standard purse or to store in a drawer." — Dakota Jones
8. The Mason Pearson mixed bristle hair brush
Amazon
Last but not least: The brush that started it all. While Mason Pearson does offer a boar bristle-only hair brush, the mixed bristle option with both boar bristles and nylon bristles is the most popular of the two. Famed for its ability to distribute the hair's natural oils and stimulate the scalp, it's great for all hair types. If the large brush is too rich for your blood, you can always consider opting for a smaller size, which is slightly more affordable but just as beautifully crafted and effective.
Promising reviews: "High quality brush that will last forever. I bought my granddaughter one for a milestone birthday. She loves it. I have had mine for decades and use it daily. It is gentle on the hair and scalp." — Dolesh
"The best ever for your hair and scalp health. Decided to put in the investment, do not regret it one bit. Not sure why it works but it does. It takes a bit to get used to the bristles of your scalp is sensitive. I have fine older hair but it detangles no problem" — pfdez
Get it in full size from Amazon for $275 or the pocket size for $140.
