What type of hair styling technique is best for creating volume at the roots?

Backcombing is an effective technique for creating volume at the roots of the hair. This process involves teasing the hair by combing it backward towards the scalp, which creates a cushion of tangled hair. This cushion lifts the hair away from the scalp, thus adding height and body. It is particularly useful for styles that require significant volume or texture, as it helps to create a fuller appearance.

While blow-drying can also add volume when done properly—especially if combined with a round brush—it does not create volume at the roots in quite the same dramatic fashion as backcombing. Pin curling similarly provides waves and curls but does not inherently add volume at the roots; its focus is more on creating curls and soft waves. A flat iron typically smooths and straightens hair, which tends to reduce volume rather than enhance it. Thus, for the specific purpose of generating volume at the roots, backcombing is undeniably the most effective technique.