How to Use Hairspray Like a Pro

With tons of different kinds of hair spray on the market, trying to figure out which one is right for the hairstyle you’re going for—not to mention how to actually use it properly—can be enough to make your head (or your hair) spin. For starters, should you opt for one that says it helps with frizzy hair? What about one that has an anti-humidity formula? And how about the finish—should it give you shiny hair or a matte look? Do you buy one that has lightweight hold or one with extra-strong hold? Seriously: Who knew there were so many variations of hair spray in existence? Luckily, we’re here to help guide you. The next time you find yourself on a quest for the best of the best in hair-holding products, keep these tips in mind for picking and using our L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hold Hairsprays. Our iconic line of hair sprays (seriously, even royals are fans of it!) are perfect for creating the appearance of shiny, bouncy hair. Hair fit for a princess? Sign us up!

HAIR SPRAY TIP #1: KEEP YOUR DISTANCE WHEN YOU SPRITZ

Everybody seems to think that you need to spray hair spray on roots in an up close and personal fashion. But, when you do that, you may not actually get the look you’re after. When you apply hair spray super-close, you risk saturating your hair for an almost greasy look—not the shine you’d probably prefer. So, when spraying your strands, be sure to hold the can at least six inches away from your head (read the product’s instructions for an exact distance) for optimum hold. Try the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Precious Oil Satin Hairspray.

HAIR SPRAY TIP #2: USE HAIR SPRAY TO ADD VOLUME

Big hair reigned supreme in the ‘70s and ‘80s—and hair spray was the go-to product of so many women to get that incredible hair height. Looking to create a super-voluminous ‘do yourself? Simply spray a volume hairspray, like the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray Extra Strong Hold Volume, in between the layers of your hair when you’re sealing in your look. Voila!

HAIR SPRAY TIP #3: LOOK FOR A Brushable Hold FORMULA

While you want your hairspray to offer volume and hold, you probably don’t want your strands to feel all stiff and crunchy after using it, do you? Nope, we didn’t think so! What can you do? When you’re out shopping for a hair spray, look for one with brushable hold. The L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray Strong Hold fits the bill perfectly.

HAIR SPRAY TIP #4: PUT YOUR BRUSH DOWN

When you try to brush through locks that have been sprayed with a strong-hold or extra strong-hold hair spray, you could potentially cause some strand wear and tear, since your style has been locked in place. If you want to be able to brush through your sprayed ‘do, opt for a flexible-hold hair spray as opposed to a strong-hold one. 

HAIR SPRAY TIP #5: BE MINDFUL OF YOUR CURLS 

If you have curly hair girl, it’s best to spray each individual curl as opposed to your whole head of ringlets. Why, you ask? Well, when you spray your entire head of curls, they may stick together and possibly lose some of their bounce. Conversely, when you go section by section, you enhance your look with tons of texture, movement, and definition. 

HAIR SPRAY TIP #6: USE YOUR HANDS TO APPLY—YES, REALLY! 

Flyaways driving you crazy? We feel you. The good news is that hairspray can work wonders on them! Instead of applying the styling product directly onto your locks, try spraying a little in your hands and patting it on to the flyaways you want to manage. 

HAIR SPRAY TIP #7: CHOOSE YOUR STRENGTH WISELY

Available in about a million different variations, it can be daunting to determine which hair spray is going to actually help you achieve the look you’re aiming for. Here’s a good rule of thumb: If you’re looking for a hairspray to keep your hair straight and maintained, opt for a low-hold spray. Need a bit more hold for your half-up bun or braided crown? Medium-hold hair sprays will do the trick. Is it your big day and you’re ready to dance the night away? Be sure to choose an extra strong-hold hair spray, like the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray Strong Hold.

Now that you know the basics of using hairspray, we can fill you in all the little hairspray tips you wouldn’t think of. Here are 6 Hairspray Hacks Every Woman Should Know.