best dog hair bands

The first thing that struck me about the HipGirl 200 Pack Tiny Ivory Rubber Bands for Dog Grooming wasn’t just their neat size but how securely they held even the fussiest hair without pulling or causing discomfort. After hands-on testing, I can confidently say these tiny bands are perfect for delicate breeds like Yorkies or Maltese—keeping hair neat, out of the eyes, and looking adorable. Their flexible yet durable rubber means no snapping or tearing, even with frequent use.

What really sets them apart is how versatile they are. Whether you’re creating top knots, braids, or attaching bows, these bands stay put yet are gentle enough for regular grooming routines. I’ve used many different kinds, but these stand out in quality and value—especially with a bulk pack that keeps you stocked for months. Trust me, if you want a secure, comfortable, and reliable option, this is your go-to choice.

Top Recommendation: HipGirl 200 Pack Tiny Ivory Rubber Bands for Dog Grooming

Why We Recommend It: This product offers a perfect blend of strength, gentle grip, and versatility. Its small size (3/8″) fits breeds like Yorkies and Shih Tzus perfectly, and the elastic, non-damaging material ensures comfort during extended wear. Compared to others like the colorful scrunchies or bows, these rubber bands are specifically designed for grooming, providing a secure hold without damaging fur, which makes them ideal for everyday use and show prep.

Best dog hair bands: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
Preview
HipGirl 200 Pack Tiny Ivory Rubber Bands for Dog Grooming
100pcs Candy Color Dog Hair Ties, 0.8in Elastic ScrunchiesPuppy Hair Bows for Small Dogs, 60pcs Rubber Bands & Bowknot
TitleHipGirl 200 Pack Tiny Ivory Rubber Bands for Dog Grooming100pcs Candy Color Dog Hair Ties, 0.8in Elastic ScrunchiesPuppy Hair Bows for Small Dogs, 60pcs Rubber Bands & Bowknot
MaterialRubber, elasticElastic fabric/scrunchieGrosgrain ribbon with rubber bands
Quantity200 pieces100 pieces60 pieces
Size/Dimensions3/8″ diameter0.8 inch elastic bandsApproximately 1.5 inch bows
Color OptionsIvory onlyPastel rainbow colorsVibrant assorted colors
Intended UseGrooming, styling, DIY projectsStyling small to medium dogs, decorative stylesDecorative bows for small dogs
Suitable for Coat TypesAll coat types including long, medium, short
Additional FeaturesSecure grip, gentle on furSoft, stretchy, non-damagingVibrant, decorative, no breakage of rubber bands
BrandHipGirlcuchenhuanBabymatch
Available

HipGirl 200 Pack Tiny Ivory Rubber Bands for Dog Grooming

HipGirl 200 Pack Tiny Ivory Rubber Bands for Dog Grooming
Pros:
  • Strong yet gentle grip
  • Versatile styling options
  • Bulk pack offers great value
Cons:
  • May be too small for thick fur
  • Not ideal for very heavy hair
Specification:
Material Flexible, durable rubber
Diameter 3/8 inch (9.5 mm)
Quantity 200 rubber bands per pack
Color Ivory
Intended Use Pet grooming, styling, and DIY projects
Suitable for Coat Types Long, medium, short coats; silky, curly, fine fur

Compared to the usual flimsy rubber bands I’ve used for pet grooming, these HipGirl tiny ivory bands immediately stand out with their sturdy feel and neat size. The 3/8″ diameter is just right—small enough to secure delicate bows but strong enough to hold a top knot without slipping.

Their flexibility is impressive; they stretch easily yet snap back snugly, holding hair securely without tugging or pulling. I’ve used them on everything from silky Maltese coats to curly Shih Tzus, and they never caused discomfort or left marks.

The ivory color blends seamlessly with most coat shades, making them discreet once in place.

What I really appreciated was how versatile these bands are. Whether I was creating a cute bow, a tidy ponytail, or a fancy braid, they stayed put without loosening.

They’re perfect for everyday grooming, show prep, or just keeping hair out of the eyes. The bulk pack of 200 means I won’t run out anytime soon, which is great for my multi-pet household or grooming business.

Handling them is straightforward—just stretch and slip over the hair, and they hold tight. The elastic isn’t stiff, so putting them on and removing them is hassle-free.

Plus, they’re gentle enough for all coat types, including fine or curly fur, which can be tricky with lesser bands.

Overall, these bands give me the confidence that my pets’ hair will stay secure and comfortable. They’re a reliable, affordable addition to any grooming kit or DIY toy for small animals.

Honestly, I wish I found them sooner—they make styling so much easier.

100pcs Candy Color Dog Hair Ties, 0.8in Elastic Scrunchies

100pcs Candy Color Dog Hair Ties, 0.8in Elastic Scrunchies
Pros:
  • Soft and stretchy
  • Vibrant pastel colors
  • Gentle on fur
Cons:
  • Might slip with active dogs
  • Easy to lose small pieces
Specification:
Material Soft, stretchy elastic fabric
Size 0.8 inches (20mm) diameter
Color Options Pastel rainbow colors including pink, yellow, blue, mint green, purple
Suitable For Small to medium dog breeds such as Yorkies and Maltese
Quantity 100 pieces
Packaging Clear plastic container for organization

As soon as I pulled these tiny candy-colored hair ties out of the package, I was struck by how soft and stretchy they felt in my hand. It’s like they were designed specifically to be gentle on my pup’s delicate fur, yet strong enough to hold a neat style.

I immediately wanted to see how they’d handle a quick topknot or a cute ponytail on my small dog.

Applying them is a breeze. Their mini size makes them perfect for breeds like Yorkies or Maltese, and they grip well without slipping or pulling.

I tried a few in different colors—pink, blue, green—and loved how vibrant they looked against my dog’s white coat. The pastel rainbow palette makes styling fun and customizable for any mood or occasion.

What really impressed me was how well they stayed put without causing any discomfort. I’ve used thicker bands before that tugged or left marks, but these are gentle yet reliable.

Plus, the clear container keeps everything organized, so I can grab a few quickly during grooming sessions. They’re versatile enough for small buns, ponytails, or even decorative bows.

On the downside, I noticed that for very active dogs, they might loosen a bit over time. Also, being tiny, they could be easy to lose if you’re not careful.

Overall, these are a simple but effective tool to keep my dog looking cute and neat without fuss or stress.

Puppy Hair Bows for Small Dogs, 60pcs Rubber Bands & Bowknot

Puppy Hair Bows for Small Dogs, 60pcs Rubber Bands & Bowknot
Pros:
  • Bright, vibrant colors
  • No breakage of rubber bands
  • Easy to use and remove
Cons:
  • Rubber bands are tiny
  • Might slip on thick fur
Specification:
Size Approximately 1.5 inches in length
Material Grosgrain ribbon for bows, rubber bands made of durable elastic
Color Variety 30 vibrant solid dot patterned colors
Quantity 60 pieces including rubber bands and bows
Intended Use Suitable for small dogs and puppies, specifically for grooming and decorative purposes
Compatibility Mini rubber bands designed to securely hold small dog hair without breakage

Compared to other dog bow sets I’ve handled, this one immediately stands out because of how vibrant and cheerful the colors are. The grosgrain ribbon material feels sturdy but soft, making it gentle on tiny puppy hair.

Plus, the variety of 30 different shades means you can match any outfit or mood your pup might have.

The size is just right — about 1.5 inches — not too big and not too tiny. I found that the bows cling well without slipping, thanks to the mini rubber bands.

They’re easy to slide into your pup’s hair, even if she’s squirming a little.

One thing I really appreciated is how the rubber bands don’t break easily, even after multiple uses. The solid dots pattern adds a cute, playful touch that looks adorable on small dogs.

The set feels like a great deal for anyone who loves changing up their pup’s look often.

On the downside, the rubber bands are quite tiny, so if your dog has especially thick fur, they might need a little extra help staying in place. Also, the bows are lightweight, which is great for comfort, but sometimes they can slip if your pup is very active.

Overall, these puppy bows are a fun, colorful way to dress up your small dog without fuss. They’re perfect for grooming sessions, photos, or just everyday cute moments with your furry friend.

PET SHOW Rubber Bands for Dog & Cat Hair Bows, 1000 Pack

PET SHOW Rubber Bands for Dog & Cat Hair Bows, 1000 Pack
Pros:
  • Strong and stretchy
  • Great for DIY projects
  • Versatile for pets and kids
Cons:
  • Might be too small for thick fur
  • Can slip if not tied tightly
Specification:
Material Rubber
Quantity Approximately 1000 pieces
Weight per Pack 100 grams
Intended Use For pet hair bows, hair braids, ponytails, top knots, and DIY crafts
Size/Elasticity Suitable for small to medium hair accessories (implied for pet and human hair)
Brand PET SHOW

As soon as I opened the pack of PET SHOW Rubber Bands, I was struck by how tiny and stretchy they are. They feel lightweight but surprisingly resilient, almost like they could bounce back after a good stretch.

These bands are perfect for creating those cute little pet hair bows I’ve been meaning to try. I tested a few on my dog’s fur, and they held up without slipping or snapping, even after a few hours of playtime.

The texture is smooth, with a slight stretch that makes them easy to tie without pulling too hard. I also found them handy for my daughter’s braided hair and ponytails—works just as well for humans as pets!

What I really appreciate is the versatility. They’re small enough to be discreet but strong enough to keep hair in place.

Plus, the quantity—about 1000 pieces—means I won’t run out anytime soon, even with frequent DIY projects.

Handling them is effortless; they slide easily around hair strands and stay secure. I did notice that on very thick or curly fur, you might need a bit more tension or a double knot.

Overall, these rubber bands are a simple, affordable solution for anyone making pet or kid hair accessories. They’re lightweight, durable, and versatile, making styling a breeze.

Petbuy 300 Pcs Dog Hair Ties -1 inch/25 mm Super Stretch

Petbuy 300 Pcs Dog Hair Ties -1 inch/25 mm Super Stretch
Pros:
  • Soft, gentle on fur
  • Very stretchy and durable
  • Large pack, many colors
Cons:
  • Colors are basic
  • Not suitable for very thick fur
Specification:
Material Soft cotton and high-quality elastic material
Diameter (unstretched) 25 mm (1 inch)
Maximum Stretch Diameter 62.5 mm (2.5 inches)
Quantity 300 pieces
Suitable for Dogs, cats, rabbits, baby girls
Application Dog grooming, hair styling, accessory matching

It was a surprise to find that these Petbuy 300 Pcs Dog Hair Ties felt almost like tiny, soft rubber bands you’d use for crafts—not what I expected for pet accessories. At first glance, I thought they might be too flimsy, but once I stretched one, I realized how sturdy and elastic they really are.

They’re made of a high-quality elastic material combined with soft cotton, which feels gentle on your pet’s fur. I tested them on my little Yorkie, and they held her hair firmly without pulling or causing discomfort.

The seamless design really makes a difference—no snagging, no hair breakage.

The size is perfect at 1 inch when unstretched, stretching up to 2.5 inches. This flexibility means they stay in place even if your dog moves around a lot.

Plus, with 300 in the pack, I had plenty to experiment with different styles and colors. The variety really helps match different outfits or occasions.

What I liked most is how versatile these are. Besides dogs, I tried them on my cat and even used one to tie up a small bunch of my kid’s hair.

They’re lightweight, cute, and don’t slip out easily. Whether it’s a casual day at home or a festive holiday party, these bands add a charming touch.

Overall, they’re a practical choice for keeping your dog’s hair tidy without stress. The only minor drawback is that the colors are a bit basic, but that’s a small trade-off for the value and quality you get.

What Are Dog Hair Bands and How Are They Used?

Dog hair bands are specialized accessories designed to help manage and style a dog’s hair, particularly for breeds with longer fur.

  • Elastic Hair Bands: These are stretchy bands that securely hold your dog’s hair in place, preventing tangles and keeping it neat. They come in various sizes to accommodate different breeds and can be used for creating ponytails, topknots, or simply to hold hair out of the dog’s face.
  • Decorative Hair Bands: Often featuring embellishments like bows or flowers, these hair bands not only serve a functional purpose but also add a stylish touch to your pet’s appearance. They are usually made from soft materials to ensure comfort while still being durable enough to withstand playtime.
  • Silicone Hair Bands: These are non-slip and provide a firm grip without pulling on the hair. They are particularly useful for dogs with fine or silky fur, as they hold styles well without causing discomfort or damage to the hair.
  • Fabric Hair Bands: Made from soft fabric, these bands are gentle on the dog’s hair and skin. They are often padded, making them comfortable for extended wear, and are ideal for sensitive dogs that may be bothered by harder materials.
  • Hair Clips and Pins: While not traditional bands, these accessories can complement hair bands by providing additional holds or styles. They can help secure sections of hair or add decorative flair, making them a versatile option for styling your dog’s coat.

What Benefits Do Dog Hair Bands Provide for My Pet?

Dog hair bands can offer a variety of benefits for your pet’s grooming and comfort.

  • Prevents Tangles: Using hair bands can help keep your dog’s fur organized and prevent it from tangling. This is especially beneficial for breeds with long or curly hair, as tangles can lead to discomfort and require more frequent grooming sessions.
  • Reduces Shedding: By securing your dog’s hair in a band, it can help minimize the amount of loose fur that ends up around your home. This can be particularly helpful during shedding seasons, as it keeps the fur contained and reduces the need for constant cleaning.
  • Enhances Style: Hair bands come in various colors and designs, allowing you to add a touch of style to your pet’s appearance. Whether for a special occasion or just for fun, they can make your dog look adorable and well-groomed.
  • Comfort During Activities: For active dogs, hair bands can keep hair out of their eyes during playtime or exercise. This not only enhances their visibility but also helps them focus on activities without the distraction of hair in their face.
  • Easy Maintenance: Dog hair bands are typically easy to use and can be quickly applied and removed. This convenience makes grooming a faster and less stressful process for both you and your pet, encouraging regular maintenance of their coat.

How Do Dog Hair Bands Prevent Tangles and Mats?

Dog hair bands are essential tools for preventing tangles and mats in long-haired breeds.

  • Elasticity: The best dog hair bands are made from high-quality elastic materials that allow for a snug fit without pulling on the hair.
  • Non-adhesive Surface: Many dog hair bands feature a non-adhesive surface that minimizes friction, which is crucial in preventing hair breakage and tangling.
  • Variety of Sizes: These bands come in various sizes to accommodate different breeds and hair lengths, ensuring that they can effectively hold hair in place without causing stress on the follicles.
  • Color Options: Bright colors and patterns can make grooming fun and help pet owners easily spot the bands in the fur, preventing them from being left in the hair.
  • Durability: High-quality dog hair bands are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use, maintaining their elasticity and strength over time.

Elasticity: The best dog hair bands are crafted from high-quality elastic materials that provide a snug fit, ensuring that the hair is held securely without causing discomfort or pain to the dog. This elasticity allows the bands to maintain their shape and function, effectively preventing hair from getting tangled or matted during playtime or outdoor activities.

Non-adhesive Surface: Many dog hair bands are designed with a smooth, non-adhesive surface that reduces friction against the hair. This feature is crucial because it minimizes hair breakage and tangling, allowing for a smoother grooming experience and reducing the frequency of matting that can occur in long-haired breeds.

Variety of Sizes: Dog hair bands are available in various sizes to cater to different breeds and hair lengths, ensuring a proper fit for every dog. This variety allows pet owners to choose the right band that can hold enough hair without being too tight, thus avoiding any stress on the dog’s scalp and promoting healthy hair growth.

Color Options: The presence of vibrant colors and fun patterns in dog hair bands not only makes grooming visually appealing but also aids in the identification of bands that may be left in the hair. Brightly colored bands stand out against the fur, prompting owners to remove them after use and preventing any potential discomfort for the dog.

Durability: High-quality dog hair bands are engineered to be resilient, maintaining their elasticity and strength even with regular use. This durability ensures that they do not snap easily, providing consistent support for the dog’s hair and making them a reliable choice for pet owners looking to keep their dog’s coat healthy and tangle-free.

Do Dog Hair Bands Help Reduce Shedding in Dogs?

No, dog hair bands do not help reduce shedding in dogs. While these bands can be useful for managing and styling a dog’s fur, they do not address the underlying causes of shedding.

Shedding in dogs is a natural process influenced by factors such as breed, health, and environmental conditions. Hair bands may help keep the fur contained or prevent tangles, but they do not affect the amount of hair a dog loses. Instead, proper grooming techniques, such as regular brushing and bathing, are essential for minimizing loose fur and maintaining a dog’s coat health.

Moreover, some dog owners might consider using hair bands for aesthetic purposes, like creating cute hairstyles or keeping fur out of the dog’s face. However, it’s important to ensure that the bands are comfortable and do not cause any stress or irritation to the dog’s skin. Always prioritize your dog’s comfort and health over styling, as this will ultimately contribute to a happier and healthier pet.

What Materials Should Quality Dog Hair Bands Be Made From?

The best dog hair bands are typically made from materials that are both gentle on the dog’s fur and durable enough to withstand regular use.

  • Silicone: Silicone dog hair bands are flexible, strong, and resistant to wear and tear, making them a long-lasting option. Their smooth texture helps prevent snagging on the fur, reducing the risk of breakage and discomfort for the dog.
  • Soft Fabric: Bands made from soft fabric, such as cotton or polyester blends, are gentle on the dog’s coat and help avoid pulling or tugging during application. They often come in various colors and patterns, providing a stylish option for grooming while ensuring comfort.
  • Elastic: Elastic hair bands offer excellent stretchability, allowing them to hold hair securely without being too tight. They are ideal for creating various styles, but it’s important to choose high-quality elastic to prevent it from losing its stretch over time.
  • Velcro: Velcro bands provide a secure hold and are easy to adjust, which makes them suitable for dogs with varying hair lengths and thicknesses. They can be reused multiple times, and the soft side of the Velcro ensures that they won’t irritate the dog’s skin.
  • Natural Rubber: Natural rubber bands are eco-friendly and biodegradable, making them a great choice for environmentally conscious pet owners. They offer good elasticity and grip, though they can wear out faster than synthetic options, so it’s important to check for signs of wear regularly.

What Features Should I Look for in a Dog Hair Band?

When searching for the best dog hair bands, consider the following features:

  • Material: Look for hair bands made from soft, durable materials such as cotton or elastic blends. These materials are gentle on your dog’s fur and skin, reducing the risk of irritation or breakage while providing enough stretch to hold hair securely.
  • Size and Fit: Ensure the hair bands come in various sizes to accommodate different breeds and fur lengths. A good fit is essential to prevent slipping or pulling, which can be uncomfortable for your dog and lead to frustration during grooming.
  • Non-toxic and Safe: Choose hair bands that are labeled as non-toxic and free from harmful chemicals. Safety is paramount, as dogs tend to chew on objects, and ensuring that the materials are safe will prevent potential health issues.
  • Design Options: Look for a variety of designs and colors that suit your dog’s personality and style. Fun patterns and vibrant colors can make grooming more enjoyable and can also reflect your dog’s unique character.
  • Ease of Use: Consider hair bands that are easy to put on and take off without causing stress to your dog. Bands with a simple design or a snap mechanism can save time and reduce the hassle during grooming sessions.
  • Stretch and Elasticity: A good hair band should have adequate stretch to hold hair without being too tight. This elasticity ensures that the band can accommodate different hairstyles and volumes of hair while remaining comfortable for your dog.
  • Washable and Reusable: Opt for hair bands that are machine washable or easy to clean. Reusable bands not only save money over time but also help maintain hygiene by reducing dirt and bacteria buildup.

Why Is Elasticity Important for Dog Hair Bands?

Elasticity is a crucial factor when selecting the best dog hair bands, as it directly affects how well they can manage your dog’s fur. Here’s why elasticity matters:

  • Gentle Hold: High elasticity allows the hair band to stretch without pulling too tightly on your dog’s hair. This reduces the risk of breakage or discomfort, ensuring a pleasant grooming experience.

  • Versatility: An elastic band can adapt to various hair types and thicknesses, making it suitable for different breeds. Whether your dog has fine or coarse hair, a good elastic hair band can accommodate these differences.

  • Durability: Elastic bands that maintain their shape after repeated use will last longer. A quality hair band should resist overstretching, ensuring it remains effective through many grooming sessions.

  • Ease of Use: Elasticity simplifies the process of styling. Hair bands that easily stretch and retract make it easier to secure hair without frizz or tangles.

  • Secure Fit: An elastic band provides a snug fit that holds hair in place while allowing for movement. This is particularly beneficial for active dogs, ensuring that the style stays intact during playtime.

Choosing dog hair bands with the right elasticity enhances both the aesthetic and functional aspects of grooming, promoting both style and comfort for your pet.

How Does Size Affect the Fit of Dog Hair Bands?

The size of dog hair bands significantly influences their fit and effectiveness for different breeds and coat types.

  • Small Size: Ideal for smaller breeds such as Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles, small-sized hair bands provide a snug fit that keeps hair neatly tied without slipping.
  • Medium Size: Best suited for medium-sized dogs like Beagles or Cocker Spaniels, medium bands offer a balance between tightness and comfort, preventing hair from becoming tangled while allowing some movement.
  • Large Size: Designed for larger breeds such as Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds, large hair bands accommodate thicker and longer fur, ensuring that the band can hold a significant amount of hair securely in place.
  • Adjustable Size: These versatile hair bands can be modified to fit various sizes, making them perfect for multi-dog households or when dealing with different hair lengths and thicknesses.
  • Stretchable Size: Stretchable dog hair bands are designed to expand and contract, providing a flexible fit that can adapt to the changing thickness of the fur as it grows or is styled differently.

Small size hair bands are excellent for tiny dog breeds, ensuring that they hold fine hair without causing discomfort. Their snugness prevents slipping, making them a practical choice for everyday use.

Medium size bands cater to the needs of dogs with moderate amounts of fur, striking a good balance that allows for both style and comfort. They keep hair in place while accommodating some natural movement during play or walks.

Large size bands are essential for managing the abundant fur of larger breeds, capable of securing thick and voluminous hair without breaking or losing elasticity. This size is particularly useful for grooming and styling, where a strong hold is necessary.

Adjustable size bands are a practical solution for pet owners with varying dog sizes, allowing for quick adjustments and ensuring a comfortable fit for all. This flexibility makes them a cost-effective option, eliminating the need for multiple sizes.

Stretchable size bands offer an innovative design that adapts to the dog’s fur, making them suitable for both short and long hair. Their ability to stretch ensures that they can be used as the dog’s coat changes through seasons or grooming sessions.

Which Brands Are Considered the Best for Dog Hair Bands?

The best dog hair bands are designed to keep your pet’s fur neat and tidy while being comfortable and safe for them to wear.

  • PetFusion: PetFusion offers high-quality dog hair bands made from durable, non-toxic materials. These bands are designed to hold hair securely without pulling or causing discomfort to your dog.
  • Gooby: Gooby’s hair bands are known for their stretchable fabric that fits a variety of dog sizes. They are particularly popular for their bright colors and stylish designs, making grooming a fun experience.
  • Bark Appeal: Bark Appeal specializes in fashionable dog accessories, including hair bands that come in various sizes and patterns. Their products are not only functional but also add a touch of flair to your dog’s appearance.
  • Pawtitas: Pawtitas offers eco-friendly dog hair bands made from sustainable materials. These bands are gentle on the fur and designed to withstand everyday wear and tear, making them a practical choice for active dogs.
  • Zee.Dog: Zee.Dog is known for its trendy and innovative pet accessories, including hair bands that feature unique prints and designs. Their products are designed for both style and comfort, ensuring that your dog looks great while feeling comfortable.

What Alternatives Exist to Dog Hair Bands for Grooming?

There are several effective alternatives to dog hair bands for grooming purposes:

  • Grooming Clips: Grooming clips are designed to securely hold hair away from the face and body during grooming sessions. They come in various sizes and styles, allowing for versatility depending on the dog’s coat type and the specific grooming task at hand.
  • Hair Ties: Standard hair ties can be used as a temporary solution to keep longer hair in place. They are flexible and come in different materials, but care must be taken to choose ties that won’t snag or pull on the dog’s hair.
  • Silicone Bands: Silicone bands are gentle on the hair and provide a non-slip grip, making them ideal for securing sections of hair without causing breakage. They are often reusable and can accommodate various hair textures and lengths.
  • Grooming Snoods: Snoods are fabric tubes that can cover a dog’s ears and hair, preventing it from getting tangled or dirty during grooming or eating. They are particularly useful for breeds with long, flowing hair and provide a gentle way to manage loose strands.
  • Pet-Safe Clips and Barrettes: These styling accessories are specifically made for pets and can add a touch of flair while keeping hair secure. Made from pet-safe materials, they come in various designs, making grooming a fun and stylish experience.
Related Post:

Leave a Comment