Handmade classic hairdressing comb 17.8cm made of Italian cellulose acetate

This substance has existed since 1865. Cellulose acetate was first produced from cotton fibers and acetic anhydride.

Production is still carried out in a similar way today. Cellulosic acetate is still made exclusively from natural raw materials (cellulose, obtained from beechwood or cotton, for example) and acetic acid.

Our high-quality acetate, made in Italy, is otherwise used almost exclusively for the production of expensive eyeglass frames. But it can also be used to make beautiful hair- and skin-friendly combs. The material is delivered in sheet form and processed in almost the same way as horn.

The combs also feel similar to real horn combs. They are just as smooth (due to their almost identical craftsmanship) and have a similar weight. They are also very break- and impact-resistant (unlike horn combs) and slightly flexible.

Acetate combs can also absorb or release moisture to a small extent. This can cause acetate combs to become slightly bent over time. However, this can easily be remedied by wrapping them in a damp cloth and leaving them for a few hours. (This should not be used with horn combs.)

Like horn, acetate is also biodegradable. However, this process takes significantly longer than with horn. In biologically active soils, it takes about 4-9 months (source: Wikipedia).

Please note that harsh cleaners can quickly damage combs. This applies to both alkaline and acidic substances. Therefore, as with horn combs, cleaning must be done with a mild shampoo and warm running water (not hot (!) water, as the material deforms at high temperatures).

Our cellulose acetate combs are crafted like horn combs. They look like tortoiseshell and feel like horn. But—and this is a significant advantage over real horn—you can easily carry them in your pocket or accidentally drop them on the floor. They don't break as easily.

Mass:
Length: approx. 17.8cm
Height: approx. 34mm
Tine spacing:
Coarse dovetailing: approx. 2 mm
Fine dovetailing: approx. 1.5mm
Weight: approx. 20 grams

Upon request, we can also deliver the comb without gold-colored engraving. Please select the "without engraving" option.

Please allow us to explain the price of these combs, which some consider high: The Italian cellulose acetate is about as expensive as genuine horn plates. There are much cheaper acetates, which are processed primarily in China and India; the combs made from them, even if they are handmade, are of course significantly cheaper. However, with "our" acetate, we ensure that no additives (e.g., plasticizers, etc.) are used. These are problematic, to say the least, in eyeglass frames (for which the material is otherwise used), since such glasses are usually in contact with the skin all day long.