Backbrushing, also known as _____, is used to build a soft cushion or to mesh two or more curl patterns together for a uniform and smooth comb out.

Backbrushing, also known as _____, is used to build a soft cushion or to mesh two or more curl patterns together for a uniform and smooth comb out.

• A. Ruffing
• B. Backcombing
• C. Cushioning
• D. Teasing

Answer: (A)

Ruffing is the technique described here. It’s a gentler brushing method used to lift and soften the base so a soft cushion is created, which helps blend two or more curl patterns into a single, uniform texture. That cushion makes the hair easier to comb out smoothly without harsh tangles or visible demarcations between curl patterns. In practice, you lightly backbrush with a brush to near the scalp to add lift and body, then use longer, controlled motions to smooth and integrate the patterns. This is different from backcombing in its intent and pressure: backcombing is typically more aggressive work aimed at creating pronounced volume or a strong, teased texture. Teasing is another term you might hear for similar textile actions, but in this context the emphasis is on creating a soft cushion and blending patterns, which is best described by ruffing. Cushioning describes the resulting texture rather than the technique itself.

Ruffing is the technique described here. It’s a gentler brushing method used to lift and soften the base so a soft cushion is created, which helps blend two or more curl patterns into a single, uniform texture. That cushion makes the hair easier to comb out smoothly without harsh tangles or visible demarcations between curl patterns. In practice, you lightly backbrush with a brush to near the scalp to add lift and body, then use longer, controlled motions to smooth and integrate the patterns.

This is different from backcombing in its intent and pressure: backcombing is typically more aggressive work aimed at creating pronounced volume or a strong, teased texture. Teasing is another term you might hear for similar textile actions, but in this context the emphasis is on creating a soft cushion and blending patterns, which is best described by ruffing. Cushioning describes the resulting texture rather than the technique itself.