The first topic that comes to my mind at the moment is tails. (Most) everyone wants their horse to have that long lucsious tail that is full and healthy and shiny. Some get the lucky hand dealt to them of that horse with the natural locks to die for:

The rest of us get stuck with this:

Yes...that second one I claim as my own :/
So, what to do? There is the camp that will swear by, "Don't touch it, leave it alone!" That great and true to the extent that a lot of people brush and comb the c.rap out of a tail and pull all the thickness right out. However, it's not something that works for everyone. For those of use who are working with with those tails that, left alone, just don't cut it, here is the advice I've gleaned.

1) NEVER brush, comb, touch when wet. Hairs are so susceptible to breaking when wet. Always wait it out and work the tail once it has dried.

2) Detanglers are your friend. I prefer Cowboy Magic for when you must get out the tangles. Even with detanglers on, simply picking through the tail with your fingers is the best option unless you are preparing to show a class, then go for the wide tooth comb or gentle brush. Day-to-day, however, there is no reason to comb or brush through the tail and detanglers are too expensive for that anyway.

3) Avoid silicone products (i.e. Show Sheen) except for special occasions. I have been terribly guilty of abusing this one...

4) Tail bags are great for shows, overnight, and trailering but they are not your friend long term. Because you have to tie them to the the tail, they generally will cause more breakage. The best method I have found is sheeting.

5) Hot oil treatments, the very same that are used on humans, work wonders.

6) 3 Letters- MTG! I swear by it personally but be careful because horses can be allergic and also if not used properly, you will lose the hair. Another negative- it absolutely stinks! It is a great product though and has really made a difference for me.

7) Cocoa butter... I've heard great things but haven't tried it yet.

8) Go from the inside out... making sure your horse is getting proper nutrition is essential for having healthy hair. Flax seeds or corn/vegetable oil properly added to the diet can also be useful. Consult your vet or B.O. about adding things like this to your horses diet.

9) Fabric softener! Seriously! The cheap blue stuff you can get from the dollar store will leave your horse's tail feeling, well, soft! It also cuts soap well after you've washed the tail. Test for allergies first!

10) Listerine! Put this up on the skin at the dock if your horse rubs the tops of his tails into frizzy oblivion. Test for allergies and don't use if his pasturemates find it to be tasty.