Should You Use a Synthetic Fiber Brush?

Synthetic brushes haven’t always gotten the best reputation. The older generation of synthetic brushes were stiff (or conversely, floppy) and didn’t retain water well, producing a dissatisfying experience overall. These synthetic brushes, made from thick white nylon, were no competition with badger hair brushes. However, over the past few years manufacturing technology has done an exquisite job of refining the synthetic hair brush, creating thinner, softer, more durable bristles. The ends of these new synthetic brushes are treated for a fine, bushy finish. Muhle helped lead the way with their silver fibre brushes, which are on par with some of the best shaving brushes out there. In fact, several wet shaving sites have claimed the tips on these silvertip fibre brushes are softer than any animal hair brush. We will always cherish the luxurious beauty of a finely made badger hair brush, but there are some pretty good reasons to go the synthetic route.

Why use synthetic?

Saves Time If you’ve got a busy schedule, synthetic brushes, also called artificial badger brushes, are as low-maintenance as you can get. They dry faster than badger bristle brushes (a few hours vs. up to a day for the natural fibers), and produce richer lather more readily. That’s because synthetic fibers are solid rather than porous, so they don’t absorb water like animal hairs. This makes them less susceptible to mold and odors, as well as more hygienic. Plus, higher-quality synthetic brushes don’t shed hair and don’t require a break-in period. Saves Money Synthetic brushes are quite economical. Since they are made of artificial bristles, they are more durable and have a long lifespan. They also tend to be more affordable than animal hair brushes. And because they produce lather easily, you'll save on shaving cream/soap too! You only need about half the amount of shaving cream or soap you’d usually use with an animal hair brush. Hypoallergenic Men who are allergic to badger hair or animal hair can confidently continue shaving by switching to a synthetic hair brush, which is hypoallergenic. Environmentally Friendly As traditional shaving grows in popularity, the demand for animal hairs will increase. However, due to various political and natural reasons, the supply may not grow and may even decrease. Synthetic bristle brushes are excellent alternatives, and are vegan and PETA approved. You can purchase Muhle’s acclaimed silvertip fibre brushes at Royal Shave.