In this article
I’ve got something exciting for you today! Backcombing, also known as teasing, is one of those hairstyling tricks that everyone hears about but not everyone actually knows how to do. It’s a simple technique that adds volume and structure to your hair, this way creates that lifted as well as full-bodied look. But if you don’t do it right, you can end up with a tangled mess instead of weightless volume. That’s exactly why this article is here! This tutorial gives six super stylist-approved steps to backcomb your hair that anyone can follow, plus a final FAQ section to answer all those little questions you might still have.
Step 1: Do a good base (It’s all about that blowout!)
Before you even pick up a comb, your hair needs the right foundation for volume. That means clean, dry hair with just the right amount of texture. If your hair is too silky, backcombing won’t hold. If it’s too heavy with the product, it can get stiff and sticky. Here’s the trick:
Pro tip: Blow-dry your hair with the Laifen Swift Special Hair Dryer volume and smoothness. Flip your head upside down while drying to boost natural lift at the roots!
Step 2: Section like a pro, and don’t just tease everywhere!
Backcombing is about strategic volume. Instead of teasing your whole head, work in sections. First, you can part the top layer of your hair and clipping it away (this keeps the surface smooth later). Then, you can divide the bottom layer into small, manageable sections about an inch wide.
Pro tip: If you want extra volume at the crown, section off a U-shape from temple to temple. This will create that salon-quality height!
Step 3: The right comb matters
This is where people get it wrong! Not all combs work for backcombing. You want a fine-tooth comb or a teasing brush, which is something with firm bristles that can grip the hair without causing breakage.
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For fine hair: Use a boar bristle teasing brush for a softer, buildable lift.
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For thick or curly hair: A metal-pronged teasing comb works best to separate dense strands.
Step 4: Tease with technique
Now for the fun part! Hold a section of hair straight up and push the comb down toward the roots in short and controlled strokes. The key is light but firm movements as you’re building volume, not matting your hair into a mess. Repeat 3–4 times per section until you see a cushion of volume forming.
Pro tip: For longer-lasting lift, you can spray a light mist of flexible-hold hairspray at the roots before backcombing.
Step 5: Unclip the top layer of hair and smooth it over the teased sections
Once you’ve backcombed all the sections, unclip the top layer of hair and smooth it over the teased sections. You can use a soft bristle brush (not the teasing comb) to blend without flattening your hard work.
Pro tip: If you’re going for an updo, lightly spritz texturizing spray before smoothing.
Step 6: Give your hair hairspray
To seal the deal, give your hair a final mist of hairspray, so you can hold the can about 10 inches away to avoid build-up. If you want extra volume throughout the day, use your fingers to fluff up the roots instead of adding more backcombing.
For extra longevity: Try lightly blow-drying your roots with cool air after spraying!
To sum up
And there you have the six easy steps to backcomb like a pro! These tips will have you covered. And if you still have questions, don’t worry! The final FAQ section will tackle everything from avoiding hair damage to making backcombing work for different styles.
FAQs
Q1: What does it mean to backcomb your hair?
Backcombing (also called teasing) is a styling technique where you comb sections of hair toward the roots to create volume and texture. It’s the secret to fuller, lifted hair without extensions or heavy products!
Q2: What are the pros and cons of backcombing hair?
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Pros: Instant volume, better hold for updos, and a long-lasting style.
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Cons: If done too aggressively, it can cause tangling or breakage. But with the right technique, it’s totally safe!
Q3: Does backcombing damage hair?
Not if you do it correctly! The trick is to use a fine-tooth comb (or teasing brush), work in small sections, and avoid aggressive tugging. Always detangle and use a good conditioner after styling.
Q4: What is 80s backcombed hair?
Think big, bold, and sky-high volume! The ‘80s were all about dramatic teased hair whether it was a rockstar-inspired mohawk, fluffy curls, or mega lifted bangs. Hairspray was the real MVP back then!
Q5: Why do hairdressers backcomb their hair when coloring?
Backcombing creates a blended effect when applying highlights or balayage. It helps transition colors so there are no harsh lines, just that sun-kissed look!
Q6: How long to backcomb hair in general?
About 5–10 minutes for everyday volume, but if you’re doing a detailed updo or extra lift at the crown, give yourself 15–20 minutes to optimize it.
Q7: How to maintain hair after backcombing hair?
Keep your volume fresh and frizz-free by gently brushing out tangles at the end of the day and using a nourishing hair mask weekly. Also, avoid product build-up by washing with a volumizing shampoo.
