We asked seven exceptionally tasteful New Yorkers to tell us about an item they bought forever ago — and still love and use today. Here, Helen Reavey, Act+Acre founder, celebrity hairstylist, and certified trichologist, on the sentimental hairbrush she has used for over two decades.
Growing up, I’d watch my mother do my grandmother’s hair every weekend. She would perm it, then set it, and the final step was taking out the rollers and brushing out her hair with this Mason Pearson brush. As a child, I loved when my mom would brush my hair with it. I have loads of fond memories attached to this brush. Finally, in my early 20s, I bought one for myself.
I remember the moment very specifically because it’s typically quite an expensive brush. When my family and I were out in Dublin doing Christmas shopping, I came across it at this little pharmacy for just 60 to 65 euros. I couldn’t believe it. I remember thinking, Wow, this is half the price of what it usually is. The pharmacy must not know how valuable these hairbrushes are. I was just starting out my hairdressing career, so it felt like kismet.
Since then, it has become a staple in my hair routine. It’s very good for brushing my hair into a ponytail, and I especially like using it the day after I’ve curled my hair. It detangles gently, brings everything together, and gives my hair a natural feel. The bristles feel so nice on my scalp. It’s the exact same as the brush my mother used, and it brings me back to that moment when I was a little girl getting her hair done. I use mine at home and always pack it when I go on trips. It has seen Australia, Japan, Mexico, and more.
In 2013, I bought a second one for my first Fashion Week tour. Nearly every single hairdresser has this brush backstage, so I had to put my name on it; otherwise, it would go missing. I’ve used that one for shows working with Sam McKnight and Ralph & Russo and on celebrity clients as well. To upkeep both my professional and personal brushes, I have a very thorough routine: After every use, I remove any excess hair with a wide-tooth comb, and every week, I soak it for a minute or so with a very gentle shampoo, then scrub the padding with a little bamboo toothbrush. There’s a tiny hole where one bristle should be, which lets out any water that gets trapped. Once it’s dry, it looks almost brand new.
My personal brush, the one I’ve had for over 25 years, is still completely intact. The only difference now compared with when I first bought it is very slight fading on the letters. I recently bought another one for my goddaughter, who was 4 years old at the time. My thought was that she can grow up with fond memories attached to the brush. And she won’t have to wait for a major sale to get one for herself.
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