The Surprising Truth Behind That Grey Fuzz in Your Hairbrush

Have you ever looked at your hairbrush and wondered what that strange grey fuzz trapped between the bristles actually is? You might have assumed it was nothing more than ordinary dust or lint. Unfortunately, the reality is a little less pleasant.

That fluffy grey buildup is usually a mixture of shed hair, dead skin cells, natural scalp oils, airborne dust, and residue from haircare products. Over time, these ingredients combine to form the familiar clumps that collect at the base of your hairbrush.

According to celebrity hairstylist Dean Banowetz, the buildup contains a combination of hair, scalp oils, dead skin cells, and dust from the surrounding environment. Styling products can make matters worse by helping these materials stick together.