Mason Pearson Rake Comb C7: How to Use It Without Breakage

By Chemists and Perfumers since 1790 D R Harris London | Published: 2026-11-01

Category: Tips & Care

Learn how to use the Mason Pearson Rake Comb C7 on thick or curly hair without breakage. Follow our step-by-step wide-tooth comb technique and care tips.

Quick answer

Use the Mason Pearson Rake Comb C7 on damp, conditioned hair, starting at the ends and working upward in small sections. Keep the comb nearly parallel to the hair and let the wide teeth glide through rather than forcing them.

Why the C7's wide teeth suit thick and curly hair

The C7 is a rake comb, meaning its teeth are spaced widely apart. That spacing lets the comb pass through dense or curly hair with less snagging than a fine-tooth comb, which can catch on tangles and cause breakage when pulled. The cellulose acetate construction gives the teeth a smooth finish, so they slide rather than scrape. If your hair is fine or easily flattened, a wide-tooth comb may not give you enough control for styling; in that case, use the C7 only for detangling and switch to a finer comb for finishing.

When to comb wet versus dry

Curly and thick hair is most fragile when wet, but it is also most tangled when dry. The safest approach is to detangle in the shower with conditioner still in, using the C7 to distribute product and separate curls. If you prefer to comb dry, do it only after your hair is completely dry and use a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray to add slip. Never comb wet hair that has not been conditioned; the lack of lubrication makes breakage more likely.

Step-by-step: how to comb without breakage

Start with damp, conditioned hair: Apply conditioner or a leave-in detangler and gently squeeze excess water out with a towel. Do not comb soaking-wet hair without product, as this creates unnecessary friction. Checkpoint: hair should feel slick, not squeaky.
Section your hair: Divide hair into four to six sections using clips. Work on one section at a time, starting at the ends and moving upward. Common mistake: combing from the roots first, which pushes tangles down and tightens them.
Hold the comb at a low angle: Keep the comb nearly parallel to the hair strand rather than perpendicular. Let the wide teeth enter the hair gently and glide through. If you meet resistance, stop and use your fingers to separate the tangle before continuing. Checkpoint: never pull through a knot.
Work from ends to roots: Comb the last two inches of the section first, then move up another two inches once the ends are smooth. Repeat until you can comb from root to tip without catching. Common mistake: rushing and forcing the comb through mid-shaft tangles.
Clean the comb after each use: Remove loose hair from the teeth with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb cleaner. Once a week, wash the comb with mild soap and warm water, then dry it with a soft cloth. Avoid boiling water or harsh chemicals, which can damage the cellulose acetate. Checkpoint: store the comb dry and away from direct heat.

Product facts

Mason Pearson Rake Comb - C7 - D R Harris London: The Mason Pearson Rake Comb C7 is 6.25 inches (16 cm) long and 0.2 inches (0.4 cm) wide, made from cellulose acetate with a tortoiseshell finish. The slim, lightweight design fits easily in a shower caddy or travel bag, so you can keep it on hand for detangling in the shower or on the go.
Mason Pearson Rake Comb - C7 - D R Harris London