how do you backcomb hair?

[SuGaRCoAteDPoiSOn]

mine tends to be a bit flat if I straighten it so I was thinking if I could pouffy it up a bit on top it would look much better but I just seem to end up with a matted mess

you get a brush and brush it the wrong way.

Mmm, I'd suggest a comb not a brush. Pull it tight then comb the wrong way over and over. Will still be a matted mess though Unless of course you smooth a layer over the top 80's style.

thanks for that.. would that be naff? to have a smooth bit over the top?

is there anything else I can do? my hair is like a bad perm if I leave it natural which is why I straighten it :/

erm, dry it upside down before you straighten it? Again, might be a bit big ie. 80's. Sorry, not a hairdresser and not really in a position to offer hair advice given the state of mine

Back comb as already described but do it v. close to the root so that you don't get a matted mess down the length of the hair.

Only do the undersections and leave the top sleek - not naff, just sensible imo.

thanks, I'll give it a bash tomorrow

Just saw this thought I woudl add some help..

After washing, towel dry upside down. While your head is still upside down, apply some mousse to the roots (only a little) blow dry upside down.

Once dry, flick your head back up the right way and smooth over, and do parting, fringe etc, on hairdryer cool setting.. DONT use a brush now just use fingers or you'll flatten it all again!

Then, once its all nice and dry, should be looking a little bouffanty now. Spray with hairspray and use fingers to pull hair up from roots, kind of a tousled look. once its as volumised as you want, spray more hairspray on and you are done!

I used to be a stylist for fashion shows by the way..

Elnett IS the best hairspray ever. Tresemme is also really good.

Wont look too 80's unless you have blue eyeshadow and bright red lipstick on. And Shoulder pads.

Anyway, 80's is back!

Have fun, let us know how you get on!