Since the '50s and '60s when bouffant hairstyles became popular, learning how to tease hair has been a dependable method for adding more volume to all types and lengths of hair. Also known as backcombing, teased hair lets you achieve more height and fullness without any special products and just one basic tool. Check out these tips for learning how to tease your hair.



What You Should Know Before Learning How to Tease Hair
Teasing involves brushing your hair backward toward the root to help lift the layers of hair. This method can create tangles, so use plenty of conditioner in the shower both before and after. Dry or damaged hair doesn't tease well, so take care to moisturize your locks. If you tease your hair on a regular basis, be sure to deep-condition at least once every two weeks to protect your hair.



Section the Hair
The main tool you'll need when you practice how to tease hair is a long-tail comb, such as Y.S. Park 105 Tail Comb, $7.95. The thin plastic at the end of the comb lets you precisely section off locks of your hair. To get more volume on the top of your head, section off a top layer and secure it with a hair clip; you'll be teasing the hair underneath this to create lift and fullness. Draw a line across the top of your head from ear to ear with the comb to section off the layer of your hair that will be teased.

Backcomb in Layers
Using the tail of your comb, separate a small section of hair, about 1 to 2 inches. When you learn how to tease hair, a comb with very fine teeth will come in handy. Place your comb about 2 inches from the root of the hair and comb downward toward the scalp repeatedly. Place the comb about 3 inches from the root and repeat, working upward. The more you tease each section of hair, the more volume you can achieve. Continue working by section, making your hair as big as you want.



Spray to Hold
You'll want to use a hairspray that holds the backcombing in place without being too stiff. Choose a product with flexible hold, such as Herbal Essences Tousle Me Softly Let It Loose, $3.50. Spray the teased part of your hair thoroughly.

Smooth to Finish
The finishing touch in learning how to tease hair is smoothing down the top layer of hair. Unclip your front section of hair and brush it back over the teased section. If you're gathering your hair into an updo or clip, comb toward the back of your head. You want to brush with a very light touch so that the teasing stays in place. Once you've smoothed your look, add a bit more hairspray to hold everything together. Then, head out to show off your voluminous tresses!