Understanding Volume Spray: What Is It and How Does It Work?
What is Volume Spray?
Volume spray is a hair care product specifically designed to enhance the thickness and fullness of your hair. It works by adding lift and body, making it ideal for those with fine or limp hair. The spray typically contains lightweight polymers and conditioning agents that not only help to create the illusion of volume but also provide a touch of hold to keep your style in place.
How Does Volume Spray Work?
When you apply volume spray to your roots, it creates a film around each hair strand. This film helps to separate the hairs, giving them a fuller appearance. Additionally, many volume sprays contain ingredients that can swell the hair shaft slightly, resulting in a noticeably thicker look. Using the product correctly can lead to a bouncy, voluminous style that lasts throughout the day.
Key Ingredients to Look For in a Volume Spray
Polymers for Hold and Shape
Polymer ingredients like Polyquaternium and PVP are common in volume sprays due to their ability to form a flexible film over your hair. These ingredients help to provide hold without making your hair feel stiff or crunchy, allowing for that bouncy, natural look.
Hydrating Agents for Softness
Look for hydrating agents such as glycerin and aloe vera. These ingredients not only add moisture but also aid in maintaining a smooth texture while enhancing volume. A well-hydrated hair strand can better reflect light, giving the appearance of increased volume.
Thickening Agents for Extra Body
In addition to polymers, ingredients like hydrolysed wheat protein or keratin can help to thicken individual strands of hair. This can be particularly beneficial for those with fine hair, giving it a fuller, healthier look by reinforcing the strands from the inside out.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use Volume Spray for Maximum Effect
Start with Clean, Damp Hair
For the best results, ensure your hair is clean and slightly damp before application. Apply a volume spray after washing, as this allows the product to adhere better and work more effectively.
Section Your Hair for Even Distribution
Divide your hair into sections to ensure even coverage. This ensures that the volume spray reaches every area, especially at the roots, where lift is most necessary.
Apply and Style as Desired
Hold the spray approximately 15-20cm away from your root area. Spray directly onto the roots of each section while avoiding the ends. Then, use your fingers or a round brush to style your hair as desired. The lift should be immediate, and you can finish with a blow dryer for added body.
Top Volume Spray Recommendations for Different Hair Types
Fine Hair
For those with fine hair, we suggest lightweight volume sprays that won’t weigh your hair down. Look for products that specifically mention ‘lightweight’ or ‘fine hair’ on the label.
Thick or Curly Hair
Individuals with thick or curly hair may benefit from a volume spray that offers extra hold. Look for products that have conditioning ingredients and a strong polymer base to manage and lift thicker locks.
Oily Hair
If you struggle with oily roots, choose a volumising spray that contains oil-absorbing elements. These sprays can help provide volume while also reducing the appearance of greasiness.
Tips for Maintaining Volume Between Washes
Use Dry Shampoo
Incorporating dry shampoo into your routine can help absorb excess oil and give your roots a boost. Sprinkling a bit at the roots before styling can revive your volume without needing a full wash.
Avoid Heavy Products
Keeping your styling routine free from heavy creams and serums can prevent your hair from becoming weighed down. Stick to lighter formulations to maintain that voluminous effect.
Reapply Volume Spray as Needed
Throughout the day, if you notice your volume has dropped, you can lightly mist your hair with volume spray and style it again. This quick refresh can help you achieve a continual lift without starting from scratch.