I love boar bristle brushes. I own one myself. Brushing isn't bad for your hair.. it's when you brush it too much that is bad. Not brushing it properly is also another issue. Brush your hair starting from the bottom to the top, that way you're not pulling at knots and tangles. If your hair is prone to split ends, try using Sunsilk Hydra TLC shampoo and conditioner. I love it. I noticed a big difference the first time I used it. It makes your hair softer, shinier, silkier and healthier. My hair doesn't have as much breakage as it use to. Now I just need a haircut >_<

I hope this helped!