Understanding Hairspray: The Ultimate Guide to Styling Benefits
Since its introduction to the world, what hairspray does has evolved into a styling staple that not only holds but adds volume, blocks humidity, hydrates, and more. Hairspray has been around since the 1940’s and over the years has become the go-to product in every woman’s hair care arsenal. Modern hairsprays are now more versatile than ever, as they often address multiple hair concerns for every hair type.
What is hairspray?
Hairspray is a lightweight mist that works by dispensing film-forming agents that coat the hair. As the spray dries, these polymers create small, flexible bonds that help hold strands in place. Hairspray is available in two main types: aerosol sprays, and non-aerosol options that "set" styles in place, delivering varying levels of hold—light, medium, or strong—depending on the formula.
What does hairspray do?
Hairspray’s most basic function is to hold styles in place, but its benefits extend far beyond that. Whether you want more structure, or to add softness or shine, the right hairspray can level up your look. What your hairspray does for your hair depends on your needs and the formula you choose. Here are five ways hairspray can enhance your hair care routine.
Locks in style
Hairspray helps maintain the shape and structure of your styles. It can keep curls curly, waves wavy, and straight styles smooth and silky. To achieve maximum hold for up to 24 hours, try Aussie, Instant Freeze Hairspray.
Adds volume
If your hair is flat and lifeless, give it a lift with a volumizing hair spray like Pantene, Pro-V Volumizing Root Lift Spray which lifts hair at the roots for fuller-looking styles. It’s non-sticky, with a flexible finish that isn’t stiff.
Controls frizz and flyaways
A light mist can smooth down stray hairs, tame frizz, and leave a polished finish. Try Herbal Essences, Touchable Hold Hairspray with Frizz Control for soft, and touchable all-day hold.
Protects against humidity
Humidity can wreak havoc on your style and anti-humidity hair sprays are ideal when you want to keep your styles from falling flat or puffing up in humid weather. Pantene, Pro-V Strong Hold Non-Aerosol Hairspray makes the hair resistant to humidity and helps hold it in place all day. These lightweight, anti-frizz sprays are also great for preserving shape without making curly hair stiff.
Finishes the look
Hairspray adds the final touch to beautiful styles. Whether you go for glossy, glass hair looks or demure matte finishes, there’s a formula that matches your vibe. Pantene, Lightweight Finish Alcohol-Free Hairspray moisturizes and leaves hair bouncy and soft for a smoother finish. Alcohol-free options are essential for color-treated hair to prevent dryness and fading.
Types of hairsprays
- Flexible is best for fine strands because it won’t weigh hair down. This lightweight hold is great for natural movement and touchable soft styles like loose waves or bouncy blowouts.
- Medium hold is ideal for updos, half-up styles, or sleek ponytails.
- Strong-hold sprays are best for structured or stationary hairstyles such as slick backs, or formal looks that need to stay in place long-term. If you have thick hair opt for strong-hold hairsprays with humidity protection.
- Volumizing sprays add lift and fullness at the roots or throughout the hair.
- Finishing sprays deliver shine and hold as the final step of your routine.
These multitasking styling heroes do more than add a stiff finish. They are must-haves that offer various hold strengths with added perks to make your routine a breeze.
About HairCode, backed by decades of hair care research and industry-leading cosmetic scientists
We’re obsessed with hair and the science behind what makes it look and feel amazing. Our dedicated team leverages years of extensive haircare research and product development led by pioneering cosmetic scientists, PhDs in Biology and Chemistry, along with esteemed professional hair stylists from around the globe. Our goal is to be the most accurate and easy-to-use platform for you to learn about your hair. Our HairCode Quiz is built to harness a wealth of haircare research to give you a straightforward and science-backed haircare regimen recommendation based on questions that matter. We know that hair can be complicated. That’s why we break it down for you piece by piece with your unique HairCode. So, let's get to the root of it... Because we are here to support you on a journey of self-discovery and love for your hair.
