Conditioner on Old Shave Brush That is Dry and Brittle?

I picked up an old Star shave brush. The hairs were dry and brittle and some were jumping ship. Is it ok to use a high quality hair conditioner on the brush to restore flexibility to the knot?

Yes, it is fine, many members including myself do it on a periodic basis usually after a good cleaning.

it is losing lots of hair when I shake it out. any recommendations?

Sounds like it might be a good candidate for a re-knot.

ncfyrfyter said:

Sounds like it might be a good candidate for a re-knot.

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Or a replacement.

Have you tried just soaking it yet? Try that and see how the hairs feel.

Jaret said:

it is losing lots of hair when I shake it out. any recommendations?

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None really. Did it start shedding hair after you applied the conditioner?

Given that it is a vintage brush it is likely that the binding agent deteriorated through the years, as others have said time for a re-knot.

I currently only have one vintage brush, and a good conditioning has been very helpful to the bristles. Give this a shot before replacement, you'd be surprised.

Conditioner is very much worth trying, but don't hold your breath. It may very well need to be re-knotted, and that's a perfect opportunity to really polish up the handle and select the knot of your choice.

A Dremel is most effective reconditioner for a knot like this.