When Were Hairbrushes Invented?

1854: The earliest U.S. patent for a hairbrush was by Hugh Rockand. It featured a metal handle with ornamental scalloped edges. 1885: Englishman Mason Pearson, invents an automatic brush-boring machine to speed the process of brush making. He also invented the pneumatic rubber cushioned hairbrush.

What did people use before the hairbrush?

Ancient Brushes

Early brushes used natural materials such as animal hair, porcupine quills, shells, flint and bones, and handles were usually made from wood, copper or bronze. Paint brushes are believed to have been used as long as 2.5 million years ago and were later adapted to be used on hair.

Where did hairbrushes originate?

In 1777, William Kent founded Kent Brushes in Hertfordshire, England, a company which became the first known hairbrush manufacturer. The company created its brushes from wood and bristle—most commonly made from animal hair or feathers—with each brush taking up to 12 individuals to craft.