When I was 14 or 15 I brushed my hair like a white girl. No insult intended, I had white friends and we brushed our hair all the time. My hair was thick and healthy and had an incredible shine. That was then, I would not dare try that now. I think at that age your hair is full of hormones and probably in a healthier state. Pluse I remember I had just gotten my first relaxer after growing out a very short fro, so it was probably just that my hair was really health. Now, I only do 5 to 10 strokes after I do my daily conditioner rinse. This is only to get my bun style smooth. I don't brush it dry because I rarely wear my hair down. Also, prior to brusing those few strokes, I wet my boar brush with hot hot water to soften the bristles. I suppose I could get the same effect with a softer brush, but that is how I get by now.