Can excessive back-combing damage hair?

[pavement]

I can't quite put my finger on how it would be damaging, it just seems to make any little hairs stand straight up.

I suppose combing it out could do the most damage. But I'm careful.

 

[LilyBird]

i think if you use a brush too harshly on your hair it can cause serious breakage...

 

[Blondes]

Well, the friction from all the combing is bound to cause some extra stress on the hair.

 

[Deborah]

I was wondering this the other day.

 

[fredlun]

It's probably more damaging to worry about this, stress can lead to loss of hair. It's not like you comb your hair for hours at a time, right?! Hair is surprisingly strong, that I know for sure.

 

[tifa]

It can lead to breakage from too much brushing, if you use products along with it, they can also be damaging. It can also dull your hair. If you keep your hair in good condition and don't do it too often, it should be okay.

 

[Hanne]

If you are worried about breakage you should consider taking a zink supplement.. it'll strenghten your hair and reduce breakage..

 

[SomethingElse]

Don't brush the tease out dry! Wet your hair thoroughly and use a detangler, then shampoo. Also, I use a comb instead of a brush to backcomb.

 

[ibimus]

Well, no matter what direction you comb, being too harsh can cause damage. I would assume you'd have to be extra careful with backcombing, because, obviously, you're going against the natural growth. That seems like it would be more likely to cause split ends or scraggly little hairs that break off.
Just don't comb wet! Your hair is more likely to break if you comb it wet. Pat dry with a towel, and then it's okay to use a wide-toothed (wide teethed?) comb, once your hair is just damp.

 

[stefi]

I use to comb my hair, almost everyday and it is a little bit damaged. Although I use a lot of care products.

 

[modelbehavior228]

I can't quite put my finger on how it would be damaging, it just seems to make any little hairs stand straight up.

I suppose combing it out could do the most damage. But I'm careful.

duh, backcombing can damage hair. Remember everyone's frizzy hair from the 80's?