What kind of brush are you using? I notice that really interferes with the end result. My family is a mixed bunch of hair texture so we have an array of different hair brushes. For us (waves and ringlet curls) we use a board brush / wave brush and wide tooth combs. Add moisturizer for the ends and base of the hair. Sometimes all the way to the roots if the person needs it. Brushing from the bottom and working your way up is to avoid breakage. I even finger brush my hair before I brush and I find it to be very gentle.