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Hairspray has built a reputation for crunchy textures, sticky finishes, and concerns around hair damage. But professional salon-quality hairsprays break the mould, showing why hairspray isn’t bad for your hair. In this blog, Laura Elliott, Head of Education at Neäl & Wølf is sharing everything you need to know about choosing the right hairspray.
Why does hairspray get a bad reputation?
A lot of concern around hairspray comes from low-quality formulas that leave hair stiff, sticky, and hard to brush out. Strong alcohol content and product build-up can leave your hair dry and brittle over time, impacting the look and feel of your locks.
Premium salon-quality formulas are much more advanced. Lightweight technology, flexible hold, and brushable finishes mean you can have long-lasting hold without the negative impact. The key is choosing the right product for your hair type and desired finish - read on as we share our recommendations.
Does hairspray cause hair loss or breakage?
Hairspray itself doesn’t cause hair loss, and breakage is mostly linked to excessive heat styling, harsh brushing, tight hairstyles and bad hair care routines. This said, using too much product can lead to hairspray build-up, making hair feel dull or weighed down. A quality hairspray should hold your style without stiffness, brush out easily, resist frizz, and leave hair touchably soft.
How do you use hairspray without damaging your hair?
Hairspray is designed to help your hair, not damage it. The secret to success is using salon-quality products correctly and avoiding any excessive build up. Below, we’ve compiled some of our top tips for success:
1. Apply from the right distance
One of the most important steps when using hairspray is applying at the right distance. Holding the can too close to your hair can concentrate the product in one area, leaving hair feeling wet, sticky, or stiff. For the best results, hold hairspray 15-30cm from your hair and mist lightly across your locks for an even distribution.
2. Build hold gradually
When it comes to hairspray, less is more. Don’t saturate your hair in just one area, instead gradually build hold and control up with layers of light mist. This gives you more flexibility and movement without weighing down your locks.
3. Prevent product build-up
Like all styling products, hairspray can leave residue behind if it isn’t properly cleaned out of your hair. Over time, this can lead to hair being greasy, dull and less manageable. Using a high-quality shampoo regularly helps remove excess product whilst keeping your scalp fresh and clean. Browse our range: Shampoo & Conditioner
What are the benefits of salon-quality hairspray?
The right hairspray goes further than just holding your style in place. High-quality sprays are designed to enhance the overall look and feel of your locks, whilst keeping hair in place without stiffness. Read on for our full list of benefits.
1. Long-lasting hold without heaviness
One of the biggest misconceptions about hairspray is that it leaves hair rock hard. Professional formulas are designed to hold hair in place, whilst also allowing for softness and movement. Whether you opt for glossy waves, sleek styling, or structured updos, the right hairspray can help maintain shape and control without creating a heavy finish.
2. Smoothness, shine and frizz control
Humidity can undo even the strongest styles. Hairspray acts like an invisible finishing layer, helping to smooth the cuticle down and protect hair from moisture in the air. The best hairsprays can also enhance shine, leaving your hair looking glossy and refined without feeling greasy, with flyaways tamed for a sleek finish.
3. Volume and shape support
Hairspray isn’t just a finishing product - it can also help to support volume and texture. A light mist throughout the lengths can help to maintain the body and preserve the structure of curls, waves, or blow-dries.
The hairsprays good for hair: FIX and CONTROL
Our hairsprays are created to support your style whilst maintaining natural movement, shine, and a luxurious finish. Discover the perfect formula for your styling routine below.
FIX Hold & Shine Hairspray
If you’re looking for extra staying power, FIX gives you firm hold without the stiffness. If you’re creating a style that needs to look great all day and night, FIX gives control without leaving behind any residue. Benefits include reliable hold, long-lasting style support, humidity resistance, and a fast-drying finish. Find out more: FIX Hold & Shine Hairspray
CONTROL Flexible Styling Hairspray
For flexible hold with a natural finish, CONTROL is the perfect everyday styling essential. Designed to provide workable, long-lasting hold, CONTROL keeps styles in place whilst maintaining movement and softness. It’s ideal for everyday styling, frizz control, and soft curls and waves. Learn more: CONTROL Flexible Styling Hairspray
Video Credit: Instagram @amyspencerhair
The verdict: Is hairspray bad for your hair?
The easy answer is no - hairspray isn’t bad for your hair if you correctly use high-quality formulas. Salon-quality hairsprays are designed to give flexible hold, shine and frizz control without the health and feel of your hair having to suffer. Browse our full range of finishing products: Styling & Finishing Products
