How to Spot a Fake Badger Brush

by Jay Kang | Posted on May 6th, 2023
shaving brush

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of a high-quality badger shaving brush against your skin. The softness, the grip, the exceptional lathering ability—it’s a small luxury that can turn a routine shave into a grooming experience. However, in the world of badger brushes, not everything that glitters is gold. Yes, we’re talking about the menace of fake badger brushes. They may look and feel similar, but they fall short in performance and longevity.


Being a discerning customer, you’d want to ensure that what you’re buying is a genuine badger brush. How do you do that? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Let’s walk you through the key signs you need to look out for when buying a badger brush.

Understanding the Authentic Badger Brush

Before you learn how to spot a fake, it’s essential to understand what a genuine badger brush looks like. An authentic badger brush has hairs that range from light brown to gray. They’re not just about looks, though. The true magic lies in their ability to absorb water. When compared to other types, a genuine badger brush has superior water-absorbing capabilities. This property is crucial for creating a thick, rich lather—the holy grail of every shaving experience.

In terms of price, a genuine badger brush typically ranges from $50 to $100. This might seem a bit steep, but remember, a high-quality brush is an investment. It’s not something that you’ll have to replace every couple of years. A genuine badger brush should last you anywhere between 6 to 15 years, depending on how well you care for it.

Spotting the Counterfeit

Now that we know what to expect from a genuine badger brush, let’s delve into the signs of a counterfeit product. One of the first things you should check is the knot, the part of the brush where the hairs are bound together.

Watch Out for Shedding

It’s normal for a new brush to lose a few hairs during the first few uses. However, if the shedding persists, you might be dealing with a fake. Genuine badger brushes are known for their sturdiness, and excessive shedding is a strong indicator that the product is not up to par.

Discoloration is a Red Flag

Next, pay attention to the color of the knot. If you notice any discoloration, it could be a sign of poor quality or counterfeit product. Authentic badger hair should maintain its color and not show signs of dye or artificial coloring.

Ensuring the Best Shave

When you spot a fake badger brush, you’re not just avoiding a subpar product—you’re ensuring the quality of your shave. A real badger brush will create a superior lather and elevate your shaving routine to an experience that leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth, and refreshed.

Armed with these tips, you’re now well-prepared to navigate the world of badger brushes. Remember, investing in a high-quality badger brush isn’t just about the product itself. It’s about investing in your grooming routine, your appearance, and, ultimately, your confidence. So next time you’re in the market for a new brush, keep these pointers in mind. Happy grooming!

Jay Kang

Just because i'm asian does not mean I don't need shaving. I always wanted to grow a beard when I was young, now I need to shave because hair growth for me is a problem. I'm going through what every man will and has gone through before.

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