What technique involves forcing hair between the thumb and back of the comb to create tension?

The technique that involves forcing hair between the thumb and back of the comb to create tension is known as ribboning. This method allows for the careful manipulation of the hair, creating a smooth and sleek finish, which is especially beneficial in various styling procedures. By applying pressure in this manner, the stylist can ensure that the hair strands are evenly distributed and styled effectively, resulting in polished waves or curls. This technique is particularly valuable in achieving a defined curl or wave pattern, as it allows for more control over the hair's movement and texture, enhancing the overall look.

Other techniques, such as a silk press, focus on straightening and smoothing the hair without involving the same kind of tension and manipulation as ribboning. Polishing generally refers to smoothing the surface of the hair to add shine, while sculpting curls involves arranging hair into specific shapes, but does not typically involve the thumb and comb technique for creating tension.