Lyda Newman was a trailblazing inventor, who patented the first hairbrush with synthetic bristles. Being a Black woman and hairdresser, Lyda decided to improve the hairbrush design as most hairbrushes at the time were made using animal hair, a material too soft for African American hair. Wanting a more hygienic and efficient process, Lydia designed a brush using synthetic fibers which were more durable and easier to clean. This design also contained evenly spaced rows of bristles with open slots to clear debris away from the hair into a recessed compartment, which could be cleaned out by opening the back with a button. She received a patent for her invention on November 15, 1898, making her the third Black woman to ever receive a patent. Her invention revolutionized the hair-care industry, making hair brushes less expensive and easier to manufacture. Lydia Newman paved the way for other Black innovators in the hair care industry such as  "Madam C.J. Walker," and Marjorie Joyner. Aside ...