Hair Spray

Using Hair Spray Without Being Crunchy

I've never really heard anyone say they're really going for the sticky, crispy look with their hairstyle, but it's what a lot of people end up with anyway. How can you keep your hair from looking Kentucky fried? Here are a few simple tips to remember.

Not all hairspray is created equal. There are scrunching hairsprays and there are holding hair sprays, anti-humidity sprays and voluminizing hair sprays. Make sure you're getting the right spray for your hair, and don't get something to create curl when you want to create a flexible hold, or an ultra-fine mist when you want extra hold.

Realize that sometimes your hair doesn't want to be hair, it wants to be a dragon. When that happens, don't force it - go for a different style and try again tomorrow. Forcing your hair into submission by schelacking isn't really a good answer to anything. Just wear a hat.

Hold the hair spray bottle 8-12 inches away from your hair. Spraying right next to your head makes your hair crunchy and awkwardly shiny.

If you want volume, spray your hair from the underside and brush up. Let it dry a little and brush the top gently to avoid killing all of the bounce you just created.

Light aeorosols are easier to use when you want a general hold all over and don't want excessive sticky spots. If you need more hold, go for a heavier aeorosol or a scrunching spray.