In the context of styling products, I had never thought I'd sing the praises of hairspray. But here we are, in the era where hairspray has undergone a serious glow-up. Gone are the days of those crunchy, stiff formulas that left your hair feeling like a potato chip — ready to ‘chip n break’ at any moment. No, the best hairsprays of today are a notch above the ordinary ones. 

I still remember the hairsprays of yesteryear — those heavy-duty cans that emitted a sticky mist you had to hold your breath through. Sure, they held your hair in place, but at what cost? Crunchy locks that felt more like a helmet than a hairstyle. It wasn't until I stumbled upon hairsprays that not only held my style but also smoothed any pesky flyaways with ease. 

So, armed with my newfound love for hairspray that actually feels good on my hair, I set out on a mission. I scoured through endless options, trying and testing each one until I found the absolute best. Scroll down to see for yourself - it's time to upgrade your hairspray game and bid adieu to crunchy, stiff locks for good.

• 1
  Editor’s Choice

  Kenra Volume Spray 25

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Taking the top spot on my list and many other celebrity hairstylists' is the Kenra Volume Spray. With its super hold that lasts up to 120 hours, the panthenol-infused hairspray offers wind resistance up to 25MPH, and high humidity resistance for a full day. 

The product earns a gold star for being flake-free and it dries quickly, leaving no sticky residue. As I went through the product reviews, I found many users rave about its ability to hold styles without weighing hair down or feeling heavy. With this top-rated hair spray, your hair stays flawless all day long, no matter the weather or activity.

Key Ingredients: Panthenol 

Best for: All hair types

Size: 16 oz

Cruelty-free: Yes

2

Best for Volumizing

SexyHair Big Spray & Play Hairspray

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Let me tell you about the SexyHair Natural hairspray — it's a minimal-effort pick for any hairstyle, whether you're rocking long, flowing locks or bouncy curls. I've been using it for a few weeks now, and let me tell you, it's a keeper. 

Not only does this hairspray provide a flake-free finish, but it also adds volume to even the finest strands while protecting your hair from heat damage during styling. The best part? It dries quickly without any mess, making it a favorite among certified hair care professionals!

Key Ingredients: Hydrolyzed wheat protein

Best for: All hair types

Size: 10 oz

Cruelty-free: Yes

3

Best for Thick Hair

Sebastian Professional Shaper Plus+ Hairspray

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Those seeking a luxe choice for daily hair routine without the need for breaking the bank must opt for Sebastian Professionals’s esteemed pick. With a generous sizing option, the formula seems infallible as it provides an impressive 24-hour flexible hold (sworn by hairstylists), but it also delivers remarkable softness that lasts all day. 

I was particularly impressed by how well it worked on my straight hair, offering versatility and manageability without feeling heavy. Additionally, its silicone-free formula adds to its appeal, ensuring that it doesn't leave your hair stiff, but rather maintains a badass hairstyle effortlessly.

Key Ingredients: No information

Best for: Normal hair

Size: 10.6 oz

Cruelty-free: No

4

Best Shine-inducing Hairspray

Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray Medium

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This medium-hold hair product by Moroccanoil is like a magic potion for your strands, giving them an unbeatable shine while waving goodbye to frizz, all without any nasty side effects. It dries in a flash, leaving no flakes or sticky residue behind, perfect for folks with sensitive scalps. Packed with goodies like argan oil, it keeps your hair hydrated and brings dull locks back to life. 

And let's not forget the heavenly scent — think amber and sweet florals — it makes styling a treat. Praised by customers for its impeccable hold, softness, and overall quality, it's one of the best hair sprays for frizzy hair and a must-have for any haircare aficionado.

Key Ingredients: Argan oil

Best for: All hair types, especially frizzy hair

Size: 10 oz

Cruelty-free: Yes

5

Best for Salon-like Results

L'oreal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray

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As someone who's all about that red carpet glam, I can vouch for its reputation as the gold standard in hair spray. The unscented formula delivers an ultra-fine mist that leaves my hair feeling clean, lightweight, and oh-so-soft, with a glossy satin finish. And the hold? Impeccable, as one can rock straight hair, bangs, or even curls from dawn till dusk without a worry. 

Plus, it's so fine that it disappears with just a brush stroke, leaving no trace behind. I'd rate it a solid 5 out of 5 — it's a must-have for anyone looking to upgrade their hair arsenal picks ASAP.

Key Ingredients: Micro-diffusion technology

Best for: All hair types

Size: 11 oz

Cruelty-free: No

6

Best for Frizzy Hair

Amika The Shield Anti-Humidity Spray

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Amika The Shield Anti-Humidity Spray is like your hair's personal bodyguard. Packed with hydrolyzed wheat protein, vegetable protein, and sea buckthorn berry, this heat-activated, invisible spray stands guard to keep your locks sleek and smooth for over 24 hours. It braves the heat up to 450°F/232°C, ensuring your hairstyle remains unscathed.

Besides its frizz-fighting prowess, it smooths the cuticle and shields your hair with UV filters, making sure your hair doesn't get fried from heat styling or whenever you head out for the day. The icing on the cake? Its blend of vanilla, citrus, and amber aromas, makes your hair not just look great but smell irresistibly good at any close gathering.

Key Ingredients: Hydrolyzed keratin, vegetable protein, and sea buckthorn berry 

Best for: Frizz

Size: 5.3 oz

Cruelty-free: Yes

7

Best Heat Protection for Styling

Living proof Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray

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Beep-ti-bop-ti-boop!— Living Proof's Volume & Texture Spray proves that you don't need a fairy godmother for a magical hair transformation. Ideal for fine hair, this styling marvel delivers instant, revivable volume and that sought-after lived-in texture without the fuss of traditional methods.

I adore this spray because of its blend of microporous minerals and starches that not only absorb excess oil but also help my hair stand up to humidity. It offers a buildable, no-slip grip that boosts styling versatility and provides heat protection up to 410°F. In all honesty, it deserves the praise it gets — from turning fine, flat hair into a voluminous, texturized masterpiece on the go. Though the higher price tag might initially seem like a hiccup, I assure you it’s a small price to pay for unparalleled results. 

Key Ingredients: Minerals, starches, hydrophobic resins

Best for:: All hair types 

Size: 7.5 oz

Cruelty-free: Yes

8

Best Hairspray for Color-treated Hair

Pureology Style + Protect Lock It Down Hairspray

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For that “fortress-like” hold, the Lock It Down Hairspray truly lives up to its name, without compromising the natural luster of your hair. Enriched with olive oil, this vegan formula not only fortifies strands but also enhances shine, ensuring a radiant finish that lasts all day. The natural ingredient is perfect for any hairstyle and safe for color-treated locks, and moisturizing hair that has dried over time from excess heat styling. 

The fast-drying, sulfate-free spray is brushable and won't dull your hair's appearance over time but rather spruce up your strands for a red-carpet-like shine and look. In my own experience, just a few quick spritzes — seven, to be exact — were enough to maintain my style flawlessly from dynamic swings to everyday wear. It also has a subtle scent of cedarwood, almond milk, and tuberose that didn't overpower but added a unique charm to this hairspray.

Key Ingredients: Olive oil

Best for: Color-treated hair

Size: 11 oz

Cruelty-free: Yes

9

Best Hairspray for Fine Hair

Paul Mitchell Super Clean Light Finishing Hairspray

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If you're aiming for the sleek updos and neat ponytails that define the "clean girl" aesthetic, Paul Mitchell's Super Clean Hairspray could be exactly what you need. It's formulated with hydrolyzed wheat protein, white ginger extracts, and panthenol, which work together to build a healthy body and gorgeous look, all while providing a soft, flexible hold. 

This hairspray is perfect for fine to medium hair types and offers incredibly touchable results thanks to its light aerosol mist that allows for an even and dry application. While it performs excellently in finish and application, a boost in its holding power would elevate it to perfection. I give this hairspray for fine hair, a rating of 4.3 out of 5. 

Key Ingredients: White ginger extracts, hydrolyzed wheat protein, and panthenol

Best for: Fine hair 

Size: 9.5 oz

Cruelty-free: Yes

10

Best for Daily Use

Davines This Is A Medium Hairspray

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I recently tried the Davines This is a Medium Hairspray, and I must say, the name isn't the only unique aspect. The formulation itself is quite distinct, offering just the right balance of hold and flexibility for everyday styles. It keeps the hair looking natural yet perfectly in place, and when you want to restyle it, it brushes out effortlessly. 

Not only does it add a subtle shine and provide long-lasting structure, but it also smells wonderful. Plus, it's eco-friendly and doesn’t dry out my hair. It's ideal for adding a light, natural texture and volume to your hair, which enhances your overall look.

Key Ingredients: Glycerin and panthenol 

Best for: All hair types 

Size: 13.52 oz

Cruelty-free: Yes

11

R+Co Vicious Strong Hold Flexible Hairspray

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If you're on the hunt for a heavy-duty hairspray that keeps styles locked in without the crunch, R+Co’s Vicious Flexible Hairspray might be your new go-to. This spray offers a robust hold that's ideal if you need your look to last through multiple days. It's particularly effective for hair that usually loses style quickly like wavy hair, frizzy straight hair, and curly messes that have no distinct texture. 

The lovely lavender scent is a refreshing touch, making styling a more luxurious experience. I appreciate that it's formulated with provitamin B5; as it genuinely gives a volumizing boost to fine hair — be it straight or curly. It's a stellar product that marries strength with flexibility for all sorts of hairdos beautifully.

Key Ingredients: Provitamin B5

Best for: Fine hair

Size: 9.5 oz

Cruelty-free: Yes

12

Aveda Be Curly Curl Enhancing Hair Spray

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For those with curly locks, the Aveda Be Curly Curl Enhancing Hair Spray is a must-have for creating and holding beautiful hairstyles. This flexible hold spray not only intensifies but also locks in your curls while providing all-day frizz control. It’s suitable for a range of hairstyles, from bouncy ringlets to soft beach waves, and curly updos. The blend of wheat protein and organic aloe helps define curls more distinctly and subtly softens hair with each spritz. Overall, with its curl-loving formulation, I rate this product a solid 4.5 out of 5.

Quick Tip:

Apply it to damp hair to enhance the curl expansion effect as it dries!

Key Ingredients: Hydrolyzed wheat protein and aloe vera

Best for: Curly hair

Size: 6.7 oz

Cruelty-free: Yes

13

DevaCurl Flexible Hold Hairspray

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Last but not least, to cap off my list of top hairsprays on a triumphant note, I present the DevaCurl Flexible Hold Hairspray. With no crunchy curl problems before or post-spray, this product offers flexibility without sacrificing hold. It’s impressive how it maintains the shape and bounce of curls without the stiffness, while also being wind-resistant and humidity-resistant. 

Admittedly, I was skeptical about using hairspray on my curls, but this one has revolutionized my styling routine. The only drawback is its bright breeze scent, which might not appeal to everyone as it is too sweet and raspy on the nose. 

Key Ingredients: No information

Best for: Curly, frizzy hair

Size: 10 oz

Cruelty-free: Yes

Now, let's check out this guide to help you discover the advantages of hairsprays.

Here are some of the top advantages it offers:

1. Style Lockdown: Ever spent ages perfecting your hairstyle only for it to fall flat within minutes? Hairspray swoops in like a superhero to save the day, locking your style in place for hours on end. Whether it's bouncy curls or a sleek updo, hairspray ensures your look stays put.

2. Volume Booster: Flat, lifeless hair? Not on hairspray's watch. With just a few spritzes, it adds instant volume and body to even the limpest of locks, giving your mane that coveted fullness and oomph.

3. Anti-frizz: Humidity wreaking havoc on your hair? Hairspray to the rescue! Its anti-frizz properties shield your strands from moisture, keeping pesky flyaways at bay and ensuring a smooth, sleek finish no matter the weather.

4. Texture and Shine Enhancer: Want to add some texture and definition to your hairstyle? Hairspray has your back. Whether you're going for tousled waves or a piece-y pixie cut, a quick spritz adds the perfect amount of texture and hold to achieve that effortlessly chic look.

5. Heat Protector: Heat styling tools like straighteners and curling irons are a godsend for achieving salon-worthy hair, but they can also wreak havoc on your locks. Luckily, hairspray doubles up as a heat protector, forming a protective barrier to shield your strands from damage caused by styling tools.

6. Long-lasting: Heading to a special event or a long day at work? Hairspray ensures your hairstyle stays intact from morning 'til night, giving you the confidence to slay all day without worrying about touch-ups.

7. Versatility: From sleek and sophisticated to tousled and beachy, hairspray is incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different hairstyles and looks with ease.

With the benefits understood, scroll on to find the key features you must seek in a hairspray.

Here are some key features to keep an eye out for when shopping for hairspray:

1. Hair Texture Compatibility: Not all hairsprays are created equal, and what works for one hair type may not work for another. Consider your hair texture when choosing a hairspray. Fine hair may benefit from a lightweight, flexible hold spray that won't weigh it down, while thicker or coarser hair may require a stronger, more heavy-duty formula to keep styles in place. For someone with dry or brittle hair, especially those rocking blonde tones or hair extensions, opting for Amika The Shield Anti-Humidity Spray is appreciated as its grinds and perks work for the better good of hair. Daily battles against UV rays and humidity demand products specifically tailored to protect and enhance your hair’s natural beauty. For instance, using a shine-enhancing, anti-humidity hairspray can lock in style while guarding against the puff-inducing effects of moisture. Similarly, a quality heat protectant is a must when styling wet hair or using heat tools, ensuring your locks remain healthy, shiny, and manageable.

2. Type of Hold: Hairsprays come in varying levels of hold, from light to extra strong. Think about the style you're trying to achieve and choose a hairspray that offers the appropriate level of hold to keep it in place. For everyday looks that require a natural, touchable hold, opt for a light to medium hold hairspray. If you're going for a more elaborate or structured style that needs to withstand wind, humidity, or a long day of wear, a stronger hold hairspray will be your best bet.

3. Flexible Finish: Look for a hairspray that offers a flexible finish, allowing you to brush through your hair without any flaking or residue. A hairspray with a flexible hold will keep your style in place while still allowing for movement and natural-looking texture. During styling, whether aiming for a sleek, touchable finish or taming those pesky baby hairs, the process should enhance your hair without leaving it feeling sticky or weighed down. Celebrity stylists often recommend lightweight control solutions that provide hours of medium hold without compromising the hair’s natural movement — ideal for achieving your styling goals. From superfine to thick hair, incorporating products like a shiny finish hairspray can elevate your hair game, ensuring each strand reflects light superbly and looks superb under any spotlight.

4. Humidity Resistance: If you live in a humid climate or are prone to frizz, opt for a hairspray with humidity-resistant properties. Most hairsprays, on the good side, contain ingredients that help shield your hair from moisture in the air, keeping frizz at bay and ensuring your strands stay smooth all day long.

5. Non-sticky Formula: Nobody wants to feel like they've dipped their head in glue after using hairspray. Look for a hairspray with a non-sticky formula that leaves your hair feeling soft, touchable, and natural.

By considering these key features, you can keep your hair looking fabulous every time you step out the door. But to look fabulous, let's learn how to use the chosen hairspray.

Here's how to ensure you're getting the most out of your hairspray:

1. Choose the Right Hairspray: Start by selecting a hairspray that matches your hair type and the style you're trying to achieve. Whether you have fine, straight hair or thick, curly locks, there's a hairspray out there for you. Look for one that offers the appropriate level of hold and finish for your hair type. 

2. Spray from the Right Distance: Hold the hairspray can about 8-12 inches away from your head to ensure even distribution and prevent overapplication. Spraying from too close can result in a concentrated blast of product that leaves your hair feeling stiff and crunchy.

3. Use Short Bursts: Instead of holding down the nozzle continuously, spray the hairspray in short bursts to evenly coat your hair. This will allow you to control the amount of product you're applying and prevent any areas from getting overloaded with hairspray.

4. Focus on the Ends: When applying hairspray, focus on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair rather than the roots. Spraying too much hairspray near the roots can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy.

5. Avoid Overuse:  It can be tempting to go overboard with hairspray, especially when you're trying to achieve a long-lasting hold. However, using too much hairspray can leave your hair feeling stiff, crunchy, and weighed down. Instead, start with a light misting of hairspray and build up as needed.

6. Brush Through: Once the hairspray has dried, use a brush or your fingers to gently brush through your hair. brushing through helps give your hair a more natural look and feel.

With these simple tips, you can ensure that you're using hairspray correctly wherever and whenever you do so.