Brushing your hair regularly can keep it clean, neat and healthy as long as you do it right. Always brush your hair when it is completely dry, and start by gently untangling its knots. While this process can be painful and frustrating, avoid pulling violently on the tangles, as they will break off. Once your hair is smooth, brush it with slow, patient strokes. Brushing fast and hard can cause friction, making your strands split or snap off. While it is OK to brush 2-3 times a day, overdoing this process can also apply undue pressure to your hair, so it is best to do so moderately.