The Unexpired

Instructions - Backcombing/Teasing Steps
If you wish to try back combing or teasing your hair at home, follow the steps listed below:

1. Begin by making sure that super curly or wavy tresses are flat ironed or blow dried straight.

Although curls and waves will create major height and volume, they will also have a tendency to be more easily damaged. Avoid backcombing hair that has any natural texture without first straightening to prevent excessive tangling.


2. If hair is flat ironed before it is backcombed, be sure that the strands are 100% cool before teasing. Strands that are still warm or hot will break or rip easier.

3. Begin by using a soft boar’s head brush or similar natural bristle brush to make sure that all knots and tangles are completely removed from all strands before backcombing.

Never backcomb strands that are not first detangled completely.

4. Using a rattail or metal comb or teasing brush, part off a section of hair from the rest of the strands. Clip the remaining hair out of the way.

5. Using your hands in conjunction with a comb or brush, gather a small section of hair approximately 1-2 inches in thickness.

Note: Use smaller strands for tighter results or larger strands for looser results.

6. Hold the ends of the new section straight up and out from the scalp with one hand. In essence you will be backcombing your strands in the opposite direction from its natural growth pattern.

7. With the other hand, run the comb down the length of the hair from the end towards the base of the scalp in short, sharp and uniform strokes.

8. If you don't achieve enough teased hair or height in the first pass, repeat the process until the hair has the right fullness, height and texture.

9. Spray newly teased sections with a firm hold hairspray. Repeat after each new section is created.

10. Once the first section is completely teased, pick up the next section of hair and repeat the process until all of the desired sections of hair have been completely backcombed.

11. Select a firm hairspray to completely spray all of the teased hair when the backcombing is complete.

12. Using both hands carefully smooth the teased hair back in the opposite direction making sure there is a lot of height in the desired area of the hair.

Once you get the hang of teasing your strands, you will be able to do it quickly and efficiently.