What term describes the technique of combing small sections of hair from the ends toward the scalp, causing shorter hair to mat at the scalp?

The technique described is known as back combing. This method involves taking small sections of hair and combing them towards the scalp, which creates volume and texture at the roots by causing the shorter hairs to mat together. This is particularly useful for achieving a fuller and more dramatic hairstyle, as it elevates the hair away from the scalp.

While teasing and back brushing may sometimes be used interchangeably, back combing specifically refers to the process of combing hair back toward the scalp to create volume. Curling, on the other hand, involves using heat or tools to create waves or curls in the hair, which is fundamentally different from the matting effect achieved through back combing.

Understanding this distinction is important for aspiring hairstylists, as it enhances their ability to communicate techniques clearly and apply them effectively in practice.