How to Make a Bump Going Into a Ponytail

A bump adds a retro twist to virtually any hairstyle.

Teasing your bangs into a roll of hair -- or "bump" -- on top of your head transforms the classic ponytail into a sophisticated retro style. Bump hairstyles emerged out of the obsession with high hair in the 1950s and '60s that gave rise to gravity-defying updos like the beehive. Depending on how much height you create by backcombing your hair, you can opt for a subtle bump or create a voluminous quiff for a more dramatic effect.

Things You'll Need

• Fine toothed tail comb
• Hair band
• Hair grips
• Firm hold hairspray

Instructions

1. Make a part running over the top of the head, from ear to ear, to separate off the front section of hair that will form the bump.

2. Comb the front section forward to create a single panel of hair and tie the back section in a loose ponytail out of the way.

3. Hold a 1-inch segment of hair from the front section loosely between your fingers. Lift the hair vertically away from the scalp.

4. Backcomb the lifted segment by combing from the ends to the roots in short, choppy strokes to create a matted texture.

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you have backcombed the entire front section to the desired height.

6. Gently smooth the backcombed segments of hair with your fingers.

7. Layer the segments together to create a single panel of teased hair.

8. Fold the panel of hair back on itself -- so that the ends are pointing toward the crown -- to create a roll of hair that has height and lift. Secure the bump in place with hair grips and hairspray.

9. Let down the back section of hair. Gather the hair into a ponytail at the crown with your hands. Smooth any ripples or flyaway strands with your fingers or a comb. Secure the ponytail with a hair band.

10. Wrap a strand of hair from the ponytail around the base of the tail to disguise the hair band. Tuck the ends of the strand into the underside of the hair band out of view.

Tips & Warnings

• Work with completely dry, detangled hair that hasn't been washed for a day or two. Just-washed hair can be a bit too slippery to backcomb effectively.

• Add more hair to the front section to create a bigger bump.

References

• Hair Boutique; Hair Quiffs From the 50s; Karen Marie Shelton; May 2010
• Hair Boutique; Backcombed Hairstyling Tips; Karen Marie Shelton; January 2009