How to Use a Hairbrush to Add Volume at the Roots

Flat, lifeless hair can make even the most polished look fall short. The secret to red-carpet volume isn't always a pricey styling product—it often comes down to the humble hairbrush. When used correctly, the right brush can lift your roots, add body, and create the illusion of thicker, healthier hair.

At C.O. Bigelow, we've been helping people perfect their beauty routines since 1838. In this guide, we'll share professional hairbrush techniques to add volume at the roots, from choosing the best brush for your hair type to mastering the art of backcombing. Get ready to transform your hair from flat to fabulous.

Why the Right Hairbrush Matters for Volume

Not all hairbrushes are created equal. The right brush can make the difference between flat, limp strands and bouncy, voluminous locks. For root volume, you need a brush that can grip the hair at the scalp and lift it upward as you dry or style. Bristle type, brush shape, and size all play a role.

Round brushes are ideal for creating lift at the roots because their curved surface allows you to wrap sections of hair and pull them upward. Meanwhile, paddle brushes are better for smoothing and detangling, but they don't provide much root lift. For fine hair, a smaller round brush with a tight bristle pattern offers more control and lift. For thicker hair, a larger barrel can help create volume without pulling too much.

One of the best tools for root volume is a boar bristle brush. Boar bristles distribute your hair's natural oils from the scalp to the ends, adding shine and reducing frizz. They also grip the hair better than synthetic bristles, making it easier to lift the roots and create tension while blow-drying. If you have fine or thinning hair, a boar bristle brush can be a game-changer for adding volume without causing damage.

• Choose a round brush with a small barrel (1-1.5 inches) for targeted root lift on fine hair.
• Opt for a boar bristle brush to add shine and grip while lifting roots.
• Consider a vented brush for faster drying and extra lift at the roots.

Step-by-Step: How to Add Volume at the Roots with a Brush

Now that you know which brush to use, let's dive into the technique. Start with clean, slightly damp hair. Towel-dry your hair to remove excess moisture, then apply a lightweight volumizing mousse or spray from roots to ends. This will give your hair the grip it needs to hold the lift.

Section your hair into manageable parts. Use clips to pin away the top sections, leaving the bottom layer free. Working from the bottom up, take a small section of hair (about 1-2 inches wide) and place the brush underneath it, close to the roots. If you're using a round brush, angle it downward and roll the brush away from your face, lifting the hair upward as you blow-dry.

As you dry, direct the heat at the roots while pulling the brush upward. This creates tension and sets the lift. Once the section is dry, let it cool for a few seconds before releasing it. This cooling step helps the hair hold its shape. Repeat this process on all sections, focusing on the crown and the top of your head for maximum volume.

For extra lift, you can use the 'backcombing with brush' technique. After drying a section, take a fine-tooth comb or a tail comb and gently backcomb the roots in short, downward strokes. Then, use your brush to smooth the top layer of hair over the backcombed section. This adds instant volume without looking stiff or unnatural.

• Always blow-dry in the opposite direction of hair growth for more lift.
• Use a cool shot button on your dryer to set the volume.
• Don't overload on product—too much mousse can weigh hair down.

Choosing the Best Brush for Your Hair Type

The ideal brush for volume depends on your hair type and texture. Fine hair benefits from a smaller round brush with natural bristles, which provide a firm grip without causing breakage. The BEAUTE Classic Gentle Detangling Brush - Fine to Medium is an excellent choice for gently lifting roots while detangling, making it perfect for fine or medium hair. Its flexible bristles reduce pulling, so you can add volume without damaging fragile strands.

If you have thick or curly hair, you need a brush that can handle the density. The BEAUTE Classic Repair & Shine Brush - Thick or Curly is designed with sturdy bristles that glide through thick hair, helping to distribute oils and reduce frizz. It's also great for creating volume because the bristles lift the hair from the roots as you brush.

For everyday styling and touch-ups, the Petite Mixed Bristle Hairbrush is a versatile option. Its mixed bristles—a combination of boar and nylon—offer the best of both worlds: the boar bristles add shine and grip, while the nylon bristles help detangle and lift. This brush is perfect for quick root-lifting sessions or for carrying in your bag for on-the-go volume.

• Fine hair: small round brush or a gentle detangling brush like the BEAUTE Classic.
• Thick/curly hair: sturdy bristle brush like the BEAUTE Classic Repair & Shine.
• On-the-go: a petite mixed bristle brush for quick touch-ups.

Additional Tips for Long-Lasting Volume

To keep your volume from falling flat, consider your hair care routine. Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner that won't weigh your hair down. The Middleweight Conditioner is a great choice—it provides moisture without heavy residue, keeping your hair light and bouncy. Pair it with a lightweight styling spray to maintain lift throughout the day.

Another pro tip: after styling, flip your head upside down and gently shake your roots with your fingers. This helps break up any stiffness and adds natural-looking volume. You can also use a texturizing spray or dry shampoo at the roots to absorb excess oil and boost volume.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Don't be discouraged if your first attempts don't yield salon-level volume. With the right brush and techniques, you'll soon master the art of root lifting.

• Use a lightweight conditioner to avoid weighing down roots.
• Flip head upside down and shake roots after styling for extra lift.
• Refresh volume with dry shampoo at the roots on day two.

Adding volume at the roots is a simple yet transformative skill that can elevate your everyday look. By choosing the right brush and mastering these techniques, you'll enjoy fuller, more confident hair. Explore our collection of hairbrushes and styling tools to find your perfect match, and start your journey to voluminous hair today.