How to Back Comb

Last Updated: February 17, 2022

Beautiful, full-bodied hair doesn't have to cost a fortune. No matter what your hair type or length, you can learn how to back comb your tresses to give you the extra volume you've always wanted. Backcombing the underside of your hair and smoothing down the top results in natural-looking volume. Read on to learn how to add height and flair to your hair in a few easy, natural steps.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Prepping Your Hair

1
Wash your hair with a volumizing shampoo. If you're going for extreme body, this is a good first step. Pick a shampoo that is labeled as "volumizing."^{[1]
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- Shampoos labeled as "clarifying" are also a good choice when it comes to getting more volume. They'll clean away conditioning agents and oils that might be weighing your hair down.
- Don't use shampoos that are made for dry hair if what you want is volume. These contain conditioners that might make your hair flatter.
- However, if you have dry or damaged hair, use a moisturizing shampoo.
2
Use a volumizing conditioner. Again, you want to go with a brand that says it will add volume, rather than smooth your hair down.^{[2]
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Research source} You can skip the conditioner as long as your hair is not dry or damaged.
- Use a deep conditioner if your hair is dry or damaged.
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3
Work a volumizing mousse or gel through your hair. Start at the roots, and spread it through to the ends. For best results, run a brush through your hair after applying to help distribute the product evenly.^{[3]
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Expert Source

Arthur Sebastian
Professional Hair Stylist
Expert Interview. 29 April 2019.}
4
Turn your head upside down, and blow it dry. This helps create volume since the hair can dry virtually weightless.
- Use a low temperature setting to add volume but prevent heat damage from occurring.
- Using a diffuser is a way to preserve some natural wave and volume.

Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Using Proper Technique

1
Choose a section of hair to backcomb. Determine what part of your hair needs volume. You can backcomb the top of your head, the crown, or your whole head. Use your fingers to section off the hair, and grasp a small section of hair in your hand. Hold the hair straight upward, and pull it taut so that none of the strands can escape.^{[4]
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- A lot of people like to start with the section of hair on top, right above the forehead. Adding a little lift right there can make a dramatic difference.
2
Tease the hair backward. Place your brush or a fine-tooth comb about halfway between your hair's roots and your hand, and apply firm brush strokes downward toward the scalp.^{[5]
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Research source} Start with the backside of each section and work towards the side of it that is closest to your face. Repeat this motion until there is a cushion of hair at the base of the hair section.
- At this point your hair will look wild. That's totally normal! If you backcombed it correctly, your hair should look like you haven't combed it in days. You can smooth out the top layer to hide the tangles later.
3
Repeat with the next small section of hair. Continue until you have volume in all the areas you desire.

Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Finishing the Look

1
Use a brush to smooth out the top layer. Use light pressure and fluid movements to brush out the very top layer of your hair so that it hides the backcombed sections. You need enough pressure to blend the hair together to cover or hide the back combed areas but not enough to flatten out the areas where you just added volume. Your hair should appear smooth and full, and the back combing should not be visible.^{[6]
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2
Finish styling your look however you desire. Add hair spray where necessary to hold the look.
- Backcombing can be used to create gorgeous dreads.
- Backcombing is the first step to creating the classic French twist.

Expert Q&A
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Question

What products can I use to back comb or tease my hair?

Arthur Sebastian
Professional Hair Stylist
Arthur Sebastian is the Owner of Arthur Sebastian Hair Salon in San Francisco, California. Arthur has worked as a hair stylist for over 20 years and received his Cosmetology License in 1998. He believes that the true work of a successful hair stylist comes from passion and a love for hairdressing.

Arthur Sebastian

Professional Hair Stylist

Expert Answer

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So there are products on the market now called dry shampoo and salt spray. These products are great if you want a natural dry finish on the roots and tease your hair with very little effort. You could also use a delicate amount of dry pommade. Any of these products will help you tease, comb, or brush your hair with a lot less effort.
Question

What does "backcomb" mean?

Laura Martin
Licensed Cosmetologist
Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist in Georgia. She has been a hair stylist since 2007 and a cosmetology teacher since 2013.

Laura Martin

Licensed Cosmetologist

Expert Answer

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Backcombing is like teasing but done with a comb. It is a method of creating hold and volume by pushing the hair down toward the scalp.
Question

Is backcombing bad for hair?

Laura Martin
Licensed Cosmetologist
Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist in Georgia. She has been a hair stylist since 2007 and a cosmetology teacher since 2013.

Laura Martin

Licensed Cosmetologist

Expert Answer

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Backcombing shouldn't damage the hair as long as it is done gently. You must also take care when combing it out.