Backcomb Brush Basics: How to Add Volume Without Damage

Quick answer

To use a backcomb brush without damage, start with dry, product-free hair, section it, and gently push the brush downward from mid-lengths to roots using short strokes. Never force through tangles. Use a brush with ball-tipped bristles and a cushioned base, like the Kent Create Tunnel Vented Hairbrush, to minimise breakage.

Backcombing steps for volume without breakage

1. Start with dry, product-free hair: Wash and dry hair thoroughly. Avoid leave-in conditioners or oils, which make hair slippery and reduce volume. Checkpoint: Hair should feel clean and slightly textured, not slick. Dry, clean hair holds volume better and is less prone to breakage.
2. Section hair into 1-2 inch layers: Use a clip to separate the top layers. Work from the bottom up. Mistake to avoid: Taking sections that are too large, which leads to uneven backcombing and tangles. Smaller sections give more control and reduce the need for aggressive strokes.
3. Hold the section taut and brush downward: Grasp the end of the section and hold it straight up. With your backcomb brush, start a few inches from the roots and brush downward toward the scalp in short, gentle strokes. Do not press hard. Mistake: Brushing all the way to the ends, which causes frizz. Focus on the mid-lengths to roots; the ends should remain smooth.
4. Repeat until you see volume: Use 3-5 strokes per section, checking volume as you go. Over-brushing leads to tangles. Checkpoint: The section should look fuller but still feel soft, not matted. Stop as soon as you achieve the desired lift to minimise stress on hair.
5. Blend and smooth the top layer: Once all sections are backcombed, gently smooth the top layer with a brush like the Peter Rabbit Large Bristle Nylon Mix Hairbrush to create a seamless finish. Mistake: Brushing too hard, which undoes the volume. Light strokes only; the goal is to cover the teased sections, not flatten them.
6. Set with light hold hairspray: Hold the can 10-12 inches away and mist lightly. Avoid heavy spraying, which can weigh hair down and make it stiff. Checkpoint: Hair should move naturally but hold its shape. A flexible hold keeps volume without crunch.
7. Remove tangles gently at night: Before bed, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle, starting from the ends and working up. Never rip through backcombed sections. Mistake: Brushing aggressively, causing breakage. Patience during removal prevents damage and preserves hair health.

Product facts

• Kent Create Tunnel Vented Hairbrush - KCR3: Kent Create Tunnel Vented Hairbrush - KCR3 has a vented design to maximise airflow and minimise blow-drying time, with non-scratch ball-tipped nylon quills for gentle detangling and a soft-touch handle for control. The vented design reduces heat exposure during blow-drying, and the ball-tipped quills prevent scalp scratches, making it ideal for safe backcombing on fine hair.
• Peter Rabbit™ Large Bristle Nylon Mix Hairbrush - PR01: Peter RabbitTM Large Bristle Nylon Mix Hairbrush - PR01 is a rubber cushioned pure bristle and nylon hairbrush designed for complete care of hair and scalp. The mix of pure bristle and nylon provides gentle smoothing after backcombing, helping to blend sections without flattening volume.