If you’re stressing over how to part your hair, we get it: Sometimes the smallest details can make the biggest difference. For example, buzzing in some simple facial hair styling detail or a lineup around a fresh haircut can totally elevate the final look. The same goes for a good hair part: If done correctly, a hair part can take your hairstyle from ho-hum to crispy, and it only takes a few extra seconds. 

That being said, getting a good hair part often boils down to having a good comb. So, before we talk about how to part your hair correctly, here are the most important things to look for in comb. After that, we’ll get to the good part (sorry): defining the best hair part during your styling regimen—even if you’re creating a hair part that isn’t your natural one.

The Best Combs for Hair Parts

To get the best hair part, follow these tips when picking out a comb.

1. Avoid plastic combs. They break easily, and can more easily lead to hair breakage. They can also leave static in the hair, leading to unwanted frizzing. It’s best to look for cellulose acetate or natural horn (if you’re real fancy). 
2. Have both wide- and fine-tooth options on hand. Whether you buy one large comb with double-ended options (one with wide-set teeth, one with fine-set teeth), or whether you have two separate combs with both wide and fine teeth, just make sure you have both. The wider option will be better for the initial detangling and setting in place, and the finer one for locking the style in place. 
3. For the part, get a comb with a “thumb” on the end. The best hair combs have a large tooth at one or both ends, and this thumb helps carve a defined part into the hairline, as opposed to just parting it softly with your fingers or with the comb as you maneuver the hair to both sides. While you can get a part any of these ways, drawing one with the part helps create the strongest definition.
4. Long hair and waves/curls might need other tools. Depending on your hair length and texture, you may need a specific comb, brush, or pick to help separate the hair before defining the part. Curls and thicker strands will probably never need a fine-tooth option (instead, they might need a detangling, ultra-wide-set rake comb to detangle). Regardless, having a standard-fare cellulose acetate wide-tooth comb is about the most universal tool that all hair types should own, if only to help draw hair parts, comb heat-straightened styles, distribute hair product, and gently detangle…