13 best hairsprays that will keep your 'do standing strong for hours
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No matter your go-to hairstyle, there's no denying that hairsprays can take your look to a whole new level, ensuring longevity and a salon-worthy finish. Gone are the days of crunchy-feeling hair, because today's iterations offer a much more lightweight result that won't leave your hair stiff in the process.
Whether you're after a slicked-back bun à la Sofia Richie Grainge, a bouncy blowout worthy of Matilda Djerf, or if you simply want to smooth out your flyaways, you can rest easy knowing that your hairspray can help your hair withstand the commute, a full day in the office or a night out without making it feel like plastic in the process.
Hairsprays are also one of those beauty products that are a must-have all year round. In the winter, you might opt for one that protects against the howling winds and showers, whilst the summer months may have you turning towards more humidity-resistant formulas.
Enter: our definitive guide to the best hairsprays around, including everything from the more affordable finds and premium must-haves to the cult-favourite formulas (L'Oréal Elnett, anyone?) that are known and loved in the GLAMOUR office. Here's everything you need to know.
Skip to: How to find the best hairspray | How should I apply a hairspray? | How we tested the best hairsprays | OR Shop our edit.
Best hairsprays at a glance
- Best hairspray overall: L'Oréal Paris Elnett Hairspray Extra Strong Hold
- Best hairspray for an extra-strong hold: Schwarzkopf got2b Glued Blasting Freeze Spray
- Best hairspray for dry hair: Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray
- Best anti-humidity hairspray: Oribe Imperméable Anti-Humidity Spray
How to find the best hairspray
Finding the right hairspray might be tricky, whether you're shopping online or carefully inspecting the hair products aisle in person. To save you some research time, we spoke to Paul Percival, hair stylist and founder of Percy & Reed.
If you want to avoid that plastic-y feel, you should look for a hairspray that has a dry and lightweight formula. Paul shared that you can test it out by simply spraying some on the back of your hand and, ideally, it shouldn't feel "sticky and wet". Basically, “the faster a spray dries down, the better it will be in use," he added. According to Paul, not only is a wet and sticky formula “terrible to use," but it may also damage the hair in the long-term.
How should I apply a hairspray?
Depending on your hairstyle, there are many ways to apply your hairspray. Want a sleek bun? Try spraying some on a toothbrush (obviously not the one you use to brush your teeth) and simply secure your baby hairs and any flyaways. Hairsprays are also handy when it comes to applying lace-front wigs. While techniques vary, the general guidance is to spray your hairspray on the edges of your wig cap (once you've cut it down to fit your hairline).
But if you're planning a classic wavy or bouncy look, it really couldn't get any simpler. If you're after a stronger hold, you can use it while you're styling your hair with heated hair tools (such as hot air brushes or hair straighteners), and once you're done, feel free to spray some more to secure the look.
The key is to avoid spraying too close to the hair. Paul shared that “the best way to use any good hairspray is to hold the spray about 20 cm away from the hair and mist it over the area you are styling.”
Oh, and if you want to add a bit more volume, a well-known tip is to spray your hair while your head is upside down.
How we tested the best hairsprays
Throughout the years, the GLAMOUR team has collectively tried hundreds of hairsprays, having tested said formulas on a variety of hair types and age groups. When reviewing each formula, we've assessed the final look and whether it lasts all day, as well as value for money and how innovative it is compared to other options on the market. Find out more about how we test.
Feeling inspired to upgrade your haircare routine? Check out our guides for the best hair dryers, best hair straighteners, and best curling wands. We can also help you pick the best shampoo, best hair conditioner and best hair serums.
Enter: the best hairsprays that are sure to become a staple in your haircare routine…
Why we love it: L'Oreal's iconic micro diffusor hairspray gives your hair that natural-looking shine without any stiffness or stickiness. The best part is that this affordable product also comes in an extra-strong hold option that will keep your 'do strong throughout the day, while being easy to brush out without any residue in sight.
Why we love it: An icon amongst those in the know, this hairspray promises to “freeze” hair in place for up to 72 hours. There's no doubt it's made for heavy-duty styles, from twisted up-dos to big blowouts that otherwise seem to flop within minutes. Just remember to shampoo this firm-hold hairspray out before switching up your style. Why not try a clarifying shampoo to get rid of any buildup?
Why we love it: If you've got fine hair that falls flat easily, look no further than this lightweight elixir from Percy & Reed, which promises long-lasting hold without sitting heavy on your hair. Coming complete with humidity and heat protection (ideal for holidays and festivals), it's also vegan and free of any gluten, parabens, sulphates or silicones.
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Why we love it: Although this product is pricier than others on the market, it's perfect for maintaining a soft and natural hairstyle. Its secret is that it contains moisturising argan oil, which provides an extra kick in the fight against dryness and damage – perfect for curly hair.
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Why we love it: This hairspray is rich in volcanic minerals, which makes it great at absorbing excess oil and leaving hair feeling extra clean and fresh. If you're looking for something that will give your hair volume while preserving its natural movement, this is it. The best part is that it's light enough to be brushed out, but will add a beachy body that's similar to that created by texture sprays or dry shampoos.
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Why we love it: How do you know that this hairspray can hold in humid conditions? Well, it was tested at Oribe's Miami-based salon and it passed with flying colours. Featuring a parabens-free formula, this hairspray will protect your hairstyle against constant heat while keeping it frizz-free for whole days on end.
Why we love it: This hairspray is designed to be long-lasting and give your hair that premium, high-shine finish. Suitable for all hair types, you can rest assured knowing that this product will be more than suitable to use before straightening or setting your hairstyle in place. Not to mention the added texture and the firm hold that it brings to the table.
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Why we love it: A cruelty-free, vegan hairspray with light to medium hold that also acts as a heat protector? Yes, please. To cut down on your styling products and time, simply spray this onto dry hair and brush through to evenly distribute its goodness throughout your strands. Enjoy the nostalgic fruity scent, then style (we love to use these blow dry stylers) and you're good to go – without any sticky residue.
Why we love it: If the thought of an aerosol hairspray makes you want to run away, cough, scowl or all of the above, then turn to the genius that is Adam Reed. The celebrity hair stylist's “head care” brand not only aims to lift spirits with its feel-good scents, but it actually works, too. Spritz this brushable “liquid hairspray” finishing spray onto your hair, comb or hands and then work throughout lengths for flexible hold with hydrating baobab oil to boot.
Why we love it: There's nothing worse than applying a hairspray only to find a spattering of white all over your freshly styled hair. Happily, this TRESemmé formula can be layered to create your desired level of hold and finish without leaving any residue.
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Why we love it: Hopefully you're well versed in the importance of SPF and are slathering your face and body in it daily, but are you protecting your hair? Consider this strong-hold hairspray as “skincare for your hair,” thanks to its UV shield and moisturising extracts that protect and add shine to lacklustre lengths.
Why we love it: Make like Matilda Djerf even if you have thin hair thanks to this volumising hairspray from John Frieda. The ultra-fine mist coats strands in a “Caffeine Vitality Complex” that builds fullness on each hair, no matter your hair type.
Why we love it: One hairspray is too heavy, another is too light… But, this one is just right. This product is created with long-lasting polymers that give your hair the shine and softness that it needs. At the same time, you can count on this reliable yet flexible hold hairspray to keep flyaways and styles in place without leaving a crispy texture.
