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Nicole Hudson specializes in take home hair-care to help you manage and maintain healthy hair in between salon visits. Olaplex and Bhave are two favourites now available in our Cronulla hair and beauty salon

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Using Hair Spray – Get Top Results Like A Pro

Nicole Hudson / Hair Advice  / Using Hair Spray – Get Top Results Like A Pro
Using Hair Spray

Using Hair Spray – Get Top Results Like A Pro

Using Hair Spray has been a staple in hair styling for decades, gracing bathroom counters and salon shelves everywhere. But, using it effectively goes beyond a quick spray and hope for the best. Many people find themselves unsure if spraying just the top of their hair will keep everything in place. Some wonder if spraying closer to the roots would be more effective. To make hair spray work in your favour, it’s all about using the right technique and product for your needs.

With any styling product, there’s a right way and a wrong way to go about it.

Is It Okay to Spray Only the Top Region of Hair?

Spraying only the top of your hair might seem like a quick fix, but it’s far from ideal. When you limit hair spray to just the top layer, you risk creating a crunchy, helmet-like finish that screams, “I tried too hard.” Hair spray is meant to lock in your style, not leave you looking like you have a shield of stiffness. Even application throughout your hair is crucial for a natural, polished look that lasts all day.

For best results, lift sections of hair and lightly mist underneath before setting the top. This technique gives volume while ensuring every strand gets its fair share of hold. You’ll get a fuller, more balanced style without the heavy, unnatural finish. In short? Spread the love—your hair deserves it.

Applying Hair Spray Near the Roots: Best Practices

Applying hair spray near the roots can be a game-changer for volume and lift, but it’s a delicate balancing act. Done right, it adds a dramatic boost to your roots and transforms limp, flat hair into a style that demands attention. Done wrong, and you could end up with a sticky, weighed-down mess that’s impossible to brush out.

To get it right, hold the spray about 20 to 30 centimetres away and apply a light mist at the roots. Focus on sections you want to lift, using your fingers to tease or lift the hair as you go. Remember, less is more—overdoing it will only make your roots feel like a crunchy mess. For finer hair, opt for a lightweight volumising spray to avoid weighing it down. This method ensures a more dynamic and lasting hold, creating volume that feels effortlessly chic.

Choosing the Right Hair Spray for Different Situations

Selecting the right hair spray is like picking the perfect outfit—it depends on what you need for the day. Hair sprays come in varying levels of hold, from light to ultra-strong, and choosing the correct one can make or break your hairstyle.

Light hold sprays are your go-to for a natural look. They give a subtle grip, perfect if you still want your hair to flow and move freely. This works well for everyday styles, beachy waves, or loose curls. Meanwhile, strong hold sprays step up when you need more control. These are ideal for slick ponytails or taming flyaways in windy conditions.

When you’re creating a complex updo or a red-carpet-level style, ultra-strong hold sprays are your best bet. They lock every hair in place, making sure your masterpiece doesn’t shift an inch—even if you’re dancing all night. Just be mindful of over-application to prevent stiffness. It’s all about finding what suits your hair type, your look, and the occasion.

Types of Hair Spray for Specific Hair Needs

Your hair is as unique as your personality, and it deserves a product tailored to its specific needs. If you have colour-treated hair, opt for sprays that protect vibrancy and shield against fading caused by UV exposure. Look for formulas that offer both hold and protection without dulling your colour.

For those blessed (or cursed) with curly hair, a frizz-fighting hair spray is a must-have. Curly hair tends to be more vulnerable to humidity, so choose sprays that add hold while maintaining your curls’ natural bounce. Dry hair benefits from moisture-rich formulas. These sprays add shine and reduce frizz without weighing down your locks.

By picking sprays designed for your unique hair needs, you can transform lacklustre styles into salon-worthy looks. Every hair type has its challenges, but with the right spray, even bad hair days can be conquered.

Hair Spray for Sun Protection

The sun isn’t just harsh on your skin; it can wreak havoc on your hair too. Prolonged sun exposure can strip your hair of moisture, cause colour fading, and leave your strands brittle and lifeless. Luckily, some hair sprays offer UV protection, acting like sunscreen for your locks.

Using a UV-protectant hair spray keeps your hair shielded from harmful rays while maintaining style and shine. This is especially vital for colour-treated hair that’s more prone to fading. Whether you’re hitting the beach or spending hours outdoors, spritzing on a protective hair spray is a simple way to preserve the health and vibrancy of your hair.

When applying, focus on coating the hair evenly and reapply as needed if you’re outdoors for long periods. These sprays won’t feel heavy, and they provide a great balance of hold and protection. Consider it an essential part of your summer hair care routine.

Perfume-Free Hair Sprays for Sensitive Scalps

If you have a sensitive scalp, finding the right hair products can feel like navigating a minefield. Fragranced hair sprays might smell divine, but they can lead to irritation, itching, and discomfort for those with sensitivities. That’s where perfume-free hair sprays come in.

Fragrance-free options are formulated with gentle ingredients that deliver hold without causing scalp issues. They’re a lifesaver for allergy sufferers, or anyone looking to minimise exposure to synthetic scents. But don’t think you’re sacrificing performance—these sprays still provide excellent hold, volume, and control.

When using perfume-free hair sprays, you can enjoy beautiful styles without the lingering odour or irritation. This makes them a go-to for people who want sleek hair minus the fuss. Keep your scalp happy and your hair looking its best with these sensitive-friendly sprays.

The Correct Way to Use Hair Spray

There’s more to using hair spray than just aiming and spraying. To get the best results, you need to match your spray technique to your styling goals. Want flexible movement? Opt for a light-hold spray and keep a soft touch when applying. If you need serious control, go for a strong-hold option and apply more deliberately.

Start by sectioning your hair for even coverage. Hold the spray can about 20 to 30 centimetres away to avoid concentrated patches. Spray in short bursts, moving the can continuously rather than holding it in one spot. This prevents stiffness and ensures a natural look. Be mindful of product build-up—too much spray can weigh your hair down or make it feel like it’s encased in plastic.

When using strong-hold formulas, less is often more. Build up the hold gradually until you achieve your desired level of control. This approach makes for a polished, long-lasting style without compromising hair movement and shine.

Ensuring Optimal Distance When Spraying

Maintaining the correct distance while spraying hair spray makes all the difference between effortlessly styled hair and a sticky mess. The golden rule is to hold the can about 20 to 30 centimetres away from your head. This distance allows the spray to distribute evenly, giving your hair the hold it needs without creating clumps or that dreaded crunchy texture.

Spraying too close results in heavy spots of product that are tough to brush out. On the flip side, spraying too far can cause the mist to dissipate before it hits your hair, making it less effective. Finding the sweet spot maximises your spray’s potential.

For added control, keep your hand moving as you spray. Think of it as painting—consistent movement creates a smooth, even layer. This approach gives your hair a natural, touchable finish while holding the style firmly in place.

Best Hairspray Salon

Preventing Clumping and Stickiness

No one wants hair that looks and feels like it’s been dipped in glue. Unfortunately, clumping and stickiness are common pitfalls when using hair spray. The good news? They’re completely avoidable with a few simple tricks. First, always keep the nozzle clean. If your spray nozzle becomes clogged with product, it can shoot out globs instead of a fine mist, leaving sticky spots on your hair.

To avoid clumping, spray in quick bursts while continuously moving the can. Keep the can at a consistent distance from your hair and never linger on one spot for too long. This method ensures even coverage, preventing hair from sticking together. If you notice clumps, gently comb through the affected area with a wide-tooth comb to break it up without disrupting your style.

Choosing the right spray formula also makes a huge difference. Lightweight, flexible-hold sprays reduce the risk of sticky buildup, giving your hair a touchable, natural look.

Maximising Volume with Hair Spray

Achieving sky-high volume doesn’t require a miracle—it just takes the right technique. Start by flipping your head upside down and giving your hair a good shake. This loosens the roots, creating natural lift. While in this position, lightly mist the roots with a volumising hair spray, holding the can about 20 to 30 centimetres away.

Next, flip your hair back and use your fingers to style and shape it. If you want more volume in specific areas, lift individual sections and spray at the roots. Let the spray dry before moving on to another section for maximum effect. This technique locks in lift while keeping your hair soft and bouncy.

Avoid overdoing it, though. Too much product can weigh your hair down, defeating the purpose. The goal is to achieve volume without sacrificing natural movement and flow.

Spraying Individual Hair Strands

For intricate styles or when you need precise control, spraying individual hair strands can make all the difference. This technique works wonders for accentuating curls, controlling flyaways, or adding definition to specific sections of hair. Start by isolating the strand or section you want to focus on. Lift it away from the rest of your hair using your fingers or a comb.

Hold the hair spray at a distance of about 20 centimetres and apply a light mist. Be patient and allow the spray to dry fully before moving on to other sections. This ensures the hold is locked in without weighing your hair down or creating excess stickiness. If you want to shape or tweak the strand, use your fingers or a comb while it’s drying for a more customised finish.

This technique is especially useful for updos, braids, or styles that require pinpoint accuracy. With the right touch, you can ensure every strand is perfectly placed, creating a polished and professional look.

Using Hair Spray with Bob Hairstyles

Bob hairstyles are timeless, offering a chic and effortless vibe. But keeping them styled to perfection often requires the right touch of hair spray. For bobs, focus on adding volume at the roots and maintaining shape at the ends. Start by lifting the top layers of your hair slightly and spraying underneath. This creates lift and prevents your bob from falling flat.

To add structure to the sides and ends, tilt your head slightly and spray at an angle. This technique locks in the signature bevelled shape that makes bobs so iconic. Be careful not to overapply—too much product can leave your hair stiff and take away its bounce.

Using a lightweight hair spray designed for touchable hold allows for movement while keeping the style intact. It’s all about finding that balance between structure and flexibility. The result? A perfectly styled bob that stays put all day without looking forced.

Common Mistakes When Using Hair Spray

Even the best hair spray can’t work miracles if used incorrectly. One of the most common mistakes is overapplication. Spraying too much product leaves hair crunchy, stiff, and anything but touchable. Instead of dousing your locks, start with a light mist and gradually build up the hold as needed.

Another frequent blunder is spraying too close. Holding the can too near your hair leads to heavy patches of product, resulting in a sticky or greasy look. Always maintain a distance of 20 to 30 centimetres to allow for even distribution.

Inconsistent application is another pitfall. Spraying one area excessively while neglecting others leaves you with an unbalanced style. Move the spray can in a fluid motion across all sections for uniform coverage. Finally, failing to clean the nozzle can lead to uneven sprays and clumps. Keep your nozzle clear to maintain that fine, even mist every time you use it.

By steering clear of these mistakes, you’ll achieve styles that look professional, natural, and—most importantly—lasting.

Tips for Long-Lasting Hold

Getting your hair to look perfect is one thing; keeping it that way is another. For a long-lasting hold, layering is your best friend. Start with a light mist to provide a base hold, then style as desired. Finish with a stronger spray to lock everything in place. This approach gives you a solid foundation without overloading your hair from the start.

Humidity and harsh weather are the enemies of any great hairstyle. Combat these conditions with humidity-resistant hair sprays designed to keep frizz at bay. Apply an even coating across your hair, focusing on areas prone to frizz or flyaways.

Another trick is to avoid touching your hair too much. Constantly running your hands through styled hair breaks down the hold and invites unwanted oils. Set it and forget it—your style will last longer if you let it be. For elaborate or special-occasion styles, consider carrying a travel-size spray for quick touch-ups throughout the day. With these tips, your style will stay put, no matter what life throws your way.

Using Hair Spray

FAQs

How do I avoid sticky hair after using hair spray?
To prevent sticky hair, use a light mist from a distance of 20-30 cm and keep the nozzle moving. Regularly clean the nozzle to avoid product buildup that can lead to uneven sprays.

What’s the best distance to spray hair?
Maintain a distance of 20 to 30 centimetres from your hair for optimal coverage. This ensures even distribution and prevents clumps or stickiness.

Can I use hair spray on wet hair?
Hair spray is typically designed for dry hair, as applying it to wet hair may result in uneven coverage or reduced hold. Check the label for any exceptions.

How do I remove excess hair spray build-up?
Use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove hair spray residue. This will keep your hair fresh, light, and free from product buildup.

What hair spray is best for fine hair?
For fine hair, opt for lightweight, volumising sprays that add hold without weighing your hair down. This keeps your style bouncy and full of life.