How to use hairspray correctly

How to Use Hairspray Correctly: Tips for Soft, Lasting Hold

Hairspray is the finishing touch that keeps a blow-dry, updo or curls in place — but used the wrong way, it can leave hair stiff, sticky or flat. A few simple techniques make the difference between a crunchy helmet and soft, lasting hold.

Quick answer: Style your hair completely first, then hold the can 25–30 cm away and spray in light, even strokes over dry hair. Use a flexible spray for soft, touchable hold and a strong-hold spray for long-lasting styles and humid days. Build up in thin layers rather than one heavy blast.

Types of Hairspray

Flexible / soft-hold hairspray

Gives touchable hold you can still move and restyle. Great for natural styles and as a working spray while building updos. 101 Create Flex Soft Hold Spray provides buildable control for volume and texture, tames frizz and flyaways and leaves a flexible, touchable finish with shine.

Strong-hold hairspray

Locks styles in place for hours and resists humidity. 101 Create Extra Strong Hold Hairspray is an extreme-control finishing spray with maximum hold and volume, plus anti-frizz and humidity control — ideal for events, updos and monsoon days.

How to Use Hairspray: Step by Step

  1. Finish styling first. Hairspray sets a style; it doesn't create one. Hair should be completely dry.
  2. Shake the can.
  3. Hold it 25–30 cm away. Spraying too close creates wet, stiff patches.
  4. Spray in light, sweeping strokes. Move the can continuously over the hair.
  5. Build in layers. Two light passes give better hold than one heavy one.
  6. Target where needed. Lift sections and spray underneath for volume, or mist a brush or your fingers to smooth flyaways.

Hairspray Techniques for Different Looks

Volume at the roots

Flip your head over or lift sections and spray at the roots, then flip back. For extra lift, add 101 Create Volume Powder first. See How to Add Volume to Thin Hair.

Long-lasting curls

Mist each curl lightly with flexible spray as you go, let curls cool fully, then finish with a light layer of strong hold.

Sleek updos and ponytails

Use flexible spray as a working spray while pinning, smooth with a brush, then finish with strong hold. For a polished surface, add a touch of 101 Play Tech Clay Cream.

Taming flyaways

Spray a little onto a clean toothbrush or your palms and smooth over flyaways, or use 101 Create Glossing Spray for shine without stiffness.

Humid days

Prep with an anti-frizz cream such as 101 Anti Frizz Smoothening Hair Styling Cream before drying, then finish with Extra Strong Hold Hairspray for humidity control. See How to Control Frizzy Hair.

Common Hairspray Mistakes

  • Spraying too close to the hair
  • Spraying damp hair
  • Using one heavy blast instead of light layers
  • Using strong hold when you want movement
  • Brushing through hairspray-set hair without re-wetting or washing
  • Not washing hairspray out, leading to buildup

Choosing the Right Hold

Look or need Best choice
Soft waves, everyday styles, touchable finish 101 Create Flex Soft Hold Spray
Updos, braids, wedding and party styles 101 Create Extra Strong Hold Hairspray
Humid days and monsoon Extra Strong Hold, which offers anti-frizz and humidity control
Shine without hold 101 Create Glossing Spray Prime Shine
Root lift that lasts 101 Create Volume Powder first, then a light spray

Hairspray for Indian Weather

  • Humidity: start with smooth, well-conditioned hair and a serum, then set with a strong hold. Spray in light layers and let each layer dry.
  • Heat and sweat: keep hair off the neck in updos and braids, and carry a small spray for touch-ups.
  • Long functions: spray the underside of curls and the base of updos, not just the surface.

For full event prep, read Festive Hair Care and Wedding Season Hair Care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hairspray bad for your hair?

Used correctly and washed out regularly, hairspray shouldn't damage hair. Avoid brushing aggressively through set hair.

How do I remove hairspray?

Shampoo thoroughly; a second wash helps after heavy use. Brush gently before washing to loosen product.

Can I use hairspray on wet hair?

Hairspray is designed for dry, styled hair. On wet hair it can clump and won't set properly.

Flexible or strong hold — which should I buy?

If you only buy one, flexible hold is more versatile for everyday looks. Choose strong hold for events, updos and humid weather.

How far away should I hold hairspray?

About 25–30 cm (10–12 inches). Closer than that and it lands in wet patches that feel stiff and sticky.

Can I use hairspray every day?

Yes, if you wash it out properly and brush it out gently before washing. Use a weekly scalp reset if you style daily.

Shop the 101 Create Range

Find both hairsprays and the full styling line-up in the 101 Create collection.

Related Guides

Shop: 101 Flex Soft Hold Spray · 101 Extra Strong Hold Hairspray · 101 Glossing Spray

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