While hairspray might have gotten a bad reputation with past hair clogging formulas, the products available today are much more lightweight and hair-friendly. So, if it’s been a while since you’ve used hairspray, or if you’re looking for a great tough-hold hair styling product which is virtually fuss-free to use, then give hairspray a try - and make the most of it with these tips!
Hairsprays come in different strengths to cater to all types of hairstyles. As a general rule, low hold spray is for looks that require nothing more than hold, such as straight hairstyles. Medium hold can cater for more structured styles, such as a half up, half down hairstyle or some loose carefree waves. And strong hold is for the more elaborate looks such as updos and anything that requires all-day hold such as a wedding hairstyle or a formal hairstyle.
As well as different strengths, hairsprays also have different features depending on the brand. For example, some hairspray products feature a flexible hold which will allow you to style your hair one way, then give you locks a brush and re-style another way. It’s perfect for day to night looks or for an after work get together which requires a new 'do.
One of the most common uses for hairspray is to add volume to your hair and there are plenty of volumizing hairsprays on sale that cater for this use. Add them to your roots and under layers to give your locks a volume hit.
Hairspray can be used to revive a day old blow-dry by flipping your hair forward, giving it a good spritz with the hairspray, and then flipping your hair back and using your fingers to smooth your style back into place.
For a natural looking hairstyle that will hold in place all day, spray hairspray into your hair brush and then brush it through your hair. Style your hair into place and then add another fine coat of hairspray over your locks directly from the can to set your style.
It can be used to set your curls. Once your hair rollers are in place, or you’ve wrapped section of hair around your curling iron, spritz your locks with hairspray to help create and keep your curly shape.
Hairspray is suitable for all hair types.
Remember that a good hairspray will not leave your hair sticky or full of flakes. If it does then try another brand.
Hairspray can be used to tame fly-away strands. Try this trick of spraying your hands with hairspray and then running your palms gently over your locks to keep any fly-aways in place.
If you hate that crunchy feel that can result from using hairspray then there are two ways to avoid it. The first is to make sure that you don’t overdo it on the hairspray. Too much hair product will overload your locks and make them sticky and crunchy. Make sure you use the minimum amount for the style you’re trying to create (use the less is more approach and only add more spray if needed). The second is for when you’re heat styling. After adding your hairspray to your hair, let it soak in a little before using your blow-dryer, hair straightener or curling iron so that the heat doesn't make your hairspray finish too solid or stiff.
If you’ve used hairspray as your setting product and you then find that your style is starting to drop then you can reactivate your hairspray by spritzing your locks with a little water.
Our final hairspray tip is to pack a mini can of hairspray in your handbag to fix any minor hairstyle emergencies on the go.