Rat Tail Comb

• The idea is to use the tail.Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
  
  Use the tail of this comb to gently lift and separate hair, arranging it in the style you want. It works great for parting sections of hair when braiding or weaving. Unless you have straightened your hair, this is not a good instrument for combing because the teeth are too small and narrow to get through black hair easily.
  
  

Wide-Tooth Comb

• Make this comb an integral part of hair grooming. It is the best tool for working out tangles and snags in black hair. Look for one that is specifically designed for detangling. It will have wide teeth of uneven lengths and smooth, coated tips. A good wide-tooth comb allows for more complete coverage with each pass through the hair.
  
  

Afro Pick

• It takes work to make that afro look great.Digital Vision./Digital Vision/Getty Images
  
  For styling an Afro without damaging hair, use a pick. Select bone or wood. The pick is a variation of a wide-tooth comb but the teeth are usually more closely spaced and it comes in a variety of sizes. It is ideal for fluffing very curly hair or separating without causing frizz.
  
  

Boar's Bristle Brush

• Like the wide-tooth comb, this brush is a necessity for thick black hair. It is gentle on hair and helps avoid static electricity which can occur when brushing. It's made of wood and the bristles are very soft, so hair damage is avoided. Use this brush on wet hair or for smoothing when styling buns and ponytails.
  
  

Paddle Brush

• If you're into straightening your hair, use a paddle brush. It offers a wide flat surface for maximum smoothing. Start with semi-dry hair and detangle with a wide-toothed comb, continuing as the hair dries. Follow with the paddle brush, working one section of hair at a time.
  
  

Combination Comb and Brush

• This implement is designed specifically for wooly, kinky, wavy, coarse, and thick hair. It combines the best of comb and brush. It has multiple rows of teeth that are round and smooth so there's no excessive pulling required and breaking of fragile hair is more likely to be avoided. This device also works well on pressed or permed hair.