Mason Pearson Popular Bristle & Nylon Hairbrush BN1

The Mason Pearson Popular BN1 is a handcrafted boar-bristle and nylon hairbrush from the English brushmaker founded in 1885, combining boar bristles to distribute the scalp's natural oils with hardy nylon tufts to detangle, sold by Ways Pharmacy (UK).

Key facts

Who it is for

• People with long hair (below the shoulder blades) who need a brush head wide enough for full strokes
• Medium-textured hair (medium thickness of each individual hair shaft)
• Fine hair with high density (lots of fine hairs) — the nylon tufts help glide through without snagging
• Anyone wanting a long-lasting, repairable brush rather than a disposable plastic one

Not suitable for: very coarse / Afro-textured hair (consider the Junior or a wide-tooth comb instead) or wet hair use as the primary detangler — Mason Pearson recommends gentle brushing on dry or near-dry hair.

How to use

1. Start at the ends of dry or near-dry hair and gently work upwards in small sections, holding the section above to reduce pull on the scalp.
2. Once the ends are tangle-free, brush from the scalp through to the ends with long, smooth strokes — typically 20 to 100 strokes per session depending on hair length.
3. Clean the brush after every few uses: lift trapped hair out with the supplied cleaning brush, then wipe the bristles with a damp cloth.
4. Deep clean monthly: shampoo the bristles only (avoid soaking the cushion), rinse, then dry bristles-down on a towel.
5. Store on its side or bristle-down; never soak the brush or expose it to heat.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the Popular, Handy and Junior Mason Pearson sizes?

The Popular (BN1) is the large size designed for long hair. The Handy is medium — a good all-rounder for shoulder-length hair. The Junior is smaller and works for fine or shorter hair and for children. Pad and bristle composition (e.g. BN = mixed boar and nylon) is independent of size.

Why combine boar bristle with nylon?

Boar bristles are finer and excellent at carrying the scalp's natural sebum down the hair shaft, which adds shine and reduces frizz. Nylon tufts are longer and stiffer, so they can detangle and reach through thicker hair. The BN combination suits medium and fine-but-dense hair where pure bristle would struggle to penetrate.

How often should I clean a Mason Pearson brush?

Lift out trapped hair with the supplied cleaning brush after every few uses. A full wash with mild shampoo every 4 to 6 weeks is enough for most people. Avoid soaking the rubber cushion as water trapped inside can damage the pad over time.

Is this brush handmade in the UK?

Yes. Mason Pearson brushes have been handcrafted in England since 1885 and the company still finishes each brush by hand at its London facility. The natural bristles vary slightly between brushes — a sign of genuine craftsmanship rather than a defect.

How long should a Mason Pearson brush last?

With careful use and cleaning, a Mason Pearson brush typically lasts 10 years or more. Replacement cushions and bristle pads are available through the manufacturer if the original eventually wears out.

Can I use it on wet hair?

It is best on dry or towel-dried hair. Wet hair is more elastic and prone to snapping under pull; use a wide-tooth comb or a wet-detangling brush first, then finish with the Mason Pearson once the hair is mostly dry.

Care & storage

• Lift out shed hair with the supplied cleaning brush after each session.
• Wash bristles only, with mild shampoo, every 4 to 6 weeks; do not submerge the cushion or handle.
• Dry bristles-down on a clean towel at room temperature. Avoid radiators or direct sunlight.
• Store flat or on its side. Keep out of reach of small children — bristles can prick.

References

• Mason Pearson — manufacturer site (London, England)

Mason Pearson is a registered trademark of Mason Pearson Bros. Ltd. Bristle colour and pattern may vary slightly between brushes — boar bristle is a natural material. This product is not a medicine.