Bouffant
Method
Method
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Hair on the top of the head was often raised by [backcombing](/wiki/Backcombing "Backcombing") or "teasing" it with a comb to create a pile of tangled, loosely knotted hair on the top and upper sides of the head. Then, unteased hair from the front of the head was lightly combed over the pile to give a smooth, sleek look, and the ends of the outer hair might be combed, cut, curled, or flipped in many distinctive ways.

In some cases, a small wiglet or a cushion of nylon mesh might be used instead of or in addition to teasing, to add height at the crown of the head. Bangs might be worn over the forehead, or a long switch or "fall" of artificial hair, matching the wearer's own hair color, might be added at the back.

Usually, [hair spray](/wiki/Hair_spray "Hair spray") or hair lacquer was applied as a finishing touch to stiffen the hairdo and hold it in place without the need for [hairpins](/wiki/Hairpin "Hairpin"). Since the hair could not be brushed without ruining the style, adjustments were made by using the long, pointed end of a "rattail" comb to gently lift the hair back into place.


How was the top part of the hairdo created in the past?