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Backcombing (also known asteasing orratting) is a way of combinghair which is used to create volume as well as to create certain hairstyles. Backcombing is done by repeatedly combing the hair towards the scalp, causing the hair to tangle and knot up. This method is often used in creating variousbig hair styles such asbeehives,bouffants anddreadlocks.
In addition toRobert Smith ofThe Cure, British comedianRussell Brand is well known for his distinctive backcombed hairstyle, as are bothFaris Rotter andJoshua Third ofThe Horrors, Brandon Jacobs ofNeils Children, Gavin Tate ofThe Gaa Gaas, Harry Wade former guitarist ofMy Passion,Noel Fielding ofThe Mighty Boosh,Helena Bonham Carter, and Australian comedian and musicianTim Minchin.Cyndi Lauper also frequently "teased" her hair.Amy Winehouse also used to backcomb her hair into the distinctive "beehive", that was inspired by the 1960s girl groups, such asThe Ronettes andThe Crystals.
Because backcombing rubs against the scales of the hair's cuticle, it can cause serious and progressive damage to the hair's integrity. Over time, this leads to weakening and breakage.[1] It can also cause tangles near the root that are very difficult to remove.[2] Frequent backcombing is not recommended for people who want to maintain long hair.