Stéphane Bodin, the acclaimed hair stylist for stars like Shailene Woodley, Léa Seydoux, Bérénice Bejo, and Alice Taglioni at Cannes Film Festival and Fashion Week, shares his proven techniques for perfect backcombing.
Repeated backcombing can rough up hair cuticles if done improperly, but for a special evening look, it's worth it. Follow these expert steps to avoid harm.
The tool depends on your desired volume. Use a brush for soft, light backcombing; opt for a fine-toothed comb for precise, tight teasing.
Proper technique ensures easy detangling:
Divide hair into sections from crown to nape;
Tease each section from ends to roots, starting close to the scalp (avoid back-and-forth motion to prevent knots);
Finish with a light mist of hairspray for hold.
Gently brush the top layers to cover the teased sections, creating a polished finish.
Not at all. Use a paddle brush, starting at the ends and working up to the roots to prevent breakage. Follow with a detangling treatment if needed.
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Aveda wooden paddle brush, €29.50 at Sephora / Christophe Robin natural rose volume detangling treatment, €32
Backcombing adds instant volume, a staple of 1960s and 1970s styles. Try a bouffant ponytail à la Brigitte Bardot.
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* Discover more of Stéphane Bodin's work on his Facebook page and stephane-bodin.com
