This here is a before and after a couple years back I wish I would've taken a picture of my knots a couple days ago. Those were worst and my hair ended up like the second picture yet again. I love this little brush it's kind of weird to use but it works miracles.I believe the knot genie I received was under 15 dollars. The knot genie is a life saver especially when you have little kids who hate having their hair brushed.