Whether you have short or long hair, we all like to add volume to our hair to give the illusion of thicker hair or to create extra texture. Teasing is everyone’s go-to hair trick for this, but what we don’t realise is that if it’s not done correctly we can risk damaging our gorgeous locks!
Not only can teasing the roots cause damage if it isn’t done correctly, but over-teasing can cause us to create a little too much volume! So what are the alternatives to teasing?
Backcombing
A lot of people think backcombing and teasing are the same. Teasing is where you move the comb in both directions across hair, up and down, to build up the texture. Backcombing on the other hand is a lot gentler and you work in one motion and direction – combing down towards the roots. This is a much safer option for those with finer hair.
Some top tips to remember when backcombing:
- Backcombing works best on day old hair as it will have more hold and be less ‘slippy’
- Use small sections at a time and backcomb using a specific backcombing brush.
- After backcombing each section, spray a little hairspray to hold it in place
- For updo’s such as beehives, backcomb the crown area then gently smooth over the very top layer of the hair that you have backcombed for a sleeker look.
- To take out backcombing, start combing at the ends first then work your way up to the roots – going straight from the roots down to the ends will cause damage.
If backcombing isn’t your thing, there are other things you can do to add volume in an instant.
Volume & Texturizing Sprays
Root boosting and volumizing sprays are a perfect alternative to both teasing and backcombing. Some can be used on wet hair so that volume is created while blow drying (focus the spray at the roots) while others are used for styling after blow drying. A brilliant example of this is ‘Sexy Hair Flip It Over Spray’ – after blow drying, lift sections of hair and spray directly at the roots. For extra volume, flip your head upside down and spray underneath the hair. Once you flip your hair back over you will have some serious volume! For root boost sprays, apply to damp hair and blow dry using a round barrel brush, focusing on the area that you want to add volume.
For extra texture, try a clay paste or a spray gel. Spray onto your hands / warm up the clay on your hands and roughly rub your hands through the roots of your hair to create a messy style. Remember not to apply it directly on the top of your hair as it could weigh the rest of your hair down.
Hair Extensions
As an alternative to styling products, you can also add volume with hair extensions. Providing you get 100% human hair extensions, you can trim the ends to the same length as your own hair if it’s only volume you want to create. The extra layers of hair will give an overall appearance of thicker, fuller hair without the need for backcombing. Clip in hair extensions are ideal for this as you can use them as and when you need them.
Laura is a hair and beauty writer with extensive knowledge in Beauty, Makeup and hair care.