An urushi-lacquer hairbrush is a beautiful, long-lasting tool — part grooming essential, part craft object. With a little care it will last for years. Here is how to look after one.
Daily use
Brush from the ends upward, working out tangles gently before long strokes from root to tip. This distributes the scalp’s natural oils along the hair, adding shine without product.
Keep it clean
- Remove hair from the bristles after each use with your fingers or a brush cleaner.
- Every few weeks, wipe the bristles with a cloth lightly dampened in water and a drop of mild shampoo, then wipe clean.
Protect the lacquer
Urushi (Japanese lacquer) is durable but happiest away from extremes:
- Do not soak the brush or leave it in water — wipe, do not submerge.
- Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from radiators, which can dull or crack lacquer over time.
- Dry it fully before storing.
Why urushi?
Lacquer hardens into a smooth, water-resistant finish that deepens in character with age. A well-made urushi brush is meant to be kept, not replaced.
Aisen’s urushi hairbrushes are finished by hand in Japan. Discover the craft.
