How to Make a Subtle Poof in Hair

A number of popular hair styles utilize a poof at the back of the head. Some poofs, such as hairstyles from the sixties and those sported by country music stars, are mountainous. Others are understated and appropriate for daily wear to work, school or a night out. Whether your hair is a chin-length bob or falls to your waist, a subtle poof will add volume to thin hair and make thick hair look even thicker. Executing the poof may take some practice but, once mastered, it can be accomplished in a matter of minutes. Does this Spark an idea?

Wash your hair, then towel dry lightly so that your hair does not drip. Work a small amount of firm-hold gel or mousse into your damp hair.

Blow dry your hair from underneath to add lift.

Roll frizzy hair in hot rollers from the tips to the roots or use a ceramic straightener; the heat will smooth your hair, add body and make it more manageable.

Gather a three-inch wide section of hair at the very top of your head and hold it straight up.

Spray the back of the section generously with hair spray; if you have very fine hair and do not use hairspray, apply a bit of mousse or gel to the back of the section, instead.

Tease the section of hair. Start just above the roots; insert the teeth of the comb into the section of hair at a perpendicular angle and comb down toward the roots two or three times. Move the comb up a couple of inches and repeat. Continue teasing until you reach the point about three inches below the ends of your hair.

Gather another section of hair directly behind the first. Repeat Steps 4 and 5 with this section of hair.

Gather a third section of hair behind the second and repeat Steps 4 and 5.

Smooth the three sections of hair gently back into place. Using a wide-toothed comb, comb the surface of the first section until it's smooth. Carefully smooth this section of hair over the teased sections. Pat and comb your hair until the poof is the desired height.

Spray your hair generously with hairspray, if desired, to keep your pouf in place.

Tips

- Combs specially designed for teasing hair are available in the beauty section of most drugstores.

- Use conditioner on your hair in the shower to help remove the tangles without damaging your hair.