The Evolution of Hair Styling Tools

Hair styling has a long history. The oldest known comb, discovered in Syria, dates back to 8000 BC. Shockingly, the design of new hair styling tools hasn’t changed that much since 8000 BC! While some things have remained the same over the years, lots have changed in the world of hair styling.
In this post, we’ll look at how hair styling tools have changed over time, from early human history to the 21st century. We’ll also look at how the evolution of hair styling tools and beard products has affected hairstyles and fashions throughout the centuries.

Interested in learning more about this fascinating topic? Keep reading

Early History of Hair Styling Tools

In ancient times, hair styling tools were made of various natural materials like wood, bone and ivory. These were more primitive tools but were still used to maintain healthy, tangle-free hair. The most common hair styling tools of this time were:

• Combs

Combs are one of the most common finds made in archaeology. They were used to keep hair clean and tangle-free.

• Hairpins

In ancient times, hairpins were used to keep a person’s vision free from falling hair. They also served a decorative purpose, for example, in Japan

Development of Hair Styling Tools in the Middle Ages

Religion played a big role in society during the Middle Ages, and because of this, women kept a modest hair style. Women usually had long hair, either braided or plaited, which they would conceal in veils or hoods. 
Throughout this period, certain hair styling tools emerged, such as:

• Gravoures

Gravoures were long, thin hairpins used to part, braid or style women’s hair.

• Curling rods

Curling rods were heated over a fire or hot coals and then used to curl women’s hair. If too hot, these primitive curling irons could burn the hair.

Innovation in Hair Styling Tools during the 19th Century

The 19th century marked a drastic turn in hairstyles. Women began parting their hair in the middle, putting their hair in a bun, or allowing their curls to fall. Some of the innovations that allowed for this included:

• The marcel iron

The marcel iron could regulate heat quite well, making it easier to style hair. It also had clamps to enhance a woman’s curls.

• Hairbrushes  

Hairbrushes gained mass adoption in the 19th century and hairstyles evolved exponentially, as more women could take advantage of this versatile hair styling tool.

Modernization of Hair Styling Tools

During the 20th century, many new hair-styling tools were invented. Some of the most revolutionary developments of this era include:

• Electric Hair Dryers;
• Hot Rollers;
• Flat irons;
• Electric Curling Irons;

These new hair styling tools completely changed the way women styled their hair, making way for new hairstyles and fashion trends. 
The hair styling industry also began using plastics in the production of hair styling tools, resulting in endless new designs and tools. New hair styling tools could also regulate temperature, creating completely novel hairstyles.

Hair Styling Tools in the 21st Century

Hair styling tools have continued to evolve in the 21st century. Some of the best developments in hair styling tools from this century include:

• Cordless hair dryers;
• Hot air brushes;
• Smart hair tools (programmable through mobile apps);
• Texture styling tools;

Modern-day hair styling tools are easier to use thanks to ergonomic designs and lightweight technology. With an increased focus on the environment, many new hair styling tools, like Yao Secret’s verawood hairbrushes and combs, also have eco-friendly and sustainable designs.  
With so much history behind us, what does the future of hair styling tools look like?

The Future of Hair Styling Tools

In the future, hair styling tools will likely be made of even lighter materials, offering more comfortable user experiences. The biggest changes will likely come from advancements in heat and air distribution, bringing new possibilities for heat styling. 
The hair styling industry will continue to place importance on natural, sustainable products, and hair styling tools will become more sustainable too. As demand for sustainable products continues to grow, eco-friendly companies like Yao Secret will flourish.

Conclusion

From simple and effective tools like hairpins and combs to advanced technology like texture styling tools, hair styling has changed significantly over the centuries.  As technology continues to progress at an incredible rate, who knows what exciting new hair styling tools and hair style trends we will see next.

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