Demystifying ingredients, clarifying how to apply products and revealing everything you’ve always wanted to know about skin types; Eliza Explains will help you become a beauty pro.
Flat, fine and boring: these are just a few words I would use to describe my hair. After taking a long look in the mirror most mornings, I’ve come to the conclusion that it lacks a certain oomph. It has almost zero volume and whenever I try to add in some movement with curls or waves, they almost instantly fall out.
For years, I just accepted my fate and continued to be dissatisfied with the way my hair looked. I’ve never been one for using lots of different hair products either; give me a heat protector and detangling spray and I’m sorted. But I’m not down and out; in fact, I’m determined for things to change, which I knew required investing in a certain product in particular.
Texture spray: an absolute game changer us fine-haired girls need to know about.
What is texture spray and how does it work?
For all the texture spray virgins out there, let me give you the low-down. The product is essential when styling your hair, especially if you have fine hair and struggle to get curls and waves to hold. For example, if you have a day-old blow dry that you want to keep for as long as possible, then texture spray works wonders to preserve its shape and hold.
It’s also a lifesaver when your hair is feeling a bit flat, as it adds volume and definition while accentuating your hair’s natural shape.
In summary, think of texture spray as the primer you would apply to your skin before doing your makeup. It’s what you need to prep your hair before styling it, as well as the best way to give it volume and definition afterwards, or if you want to prolong an updo.
Texture spray gives your hair that grit it’s lacking to hold certain styles, which otherwise would just slip out quickly over time. It also absorbs excess oil from your roots, leaving hair feeling light and fresh. Those who enjoy a beachy, tousled finish will find a texture spray essential for achieving that look.
When and how should I apply texture spray while styling my hair?
One of the great things about texture spray is that it can be used to style hair with or without heat. I’ve always been under the impression that it’s the heat doing all the hard work, when in fact, it’s the texture spray.
When I do use a curling wand or hair straightener, I make sure to first dry my hair properly if it’s been washed, then apply texture spray before applying heat. Once the curls are done, I spray the formula again at the very end for extra volume.
It’s up to you how much texture spray you want to use, and to get it just right, it’s best to start with less so that you can build it up as you go.
When I don’t want to use heat, I leave my hair a bit damp, probably 80-90% dry, and then apply texture spray. I then either twist my hair and tie it up in a ponytail or use a heatless hair curler to wrap my hair around. I usually wait between half an hour to an hour before brushing it out, topping it up with more texture spray in order to guarantee that hold.
For ad-hoc application on time-short mornings, I spritz texture spray all over and then using my hands, I scrunch my hair up starting from the ends to give instant lift and volume.
What’s the difference between texture spray and hairspray?
Although both products help hairstyles last longer, there are important differences between the two.
Personally, I prefer texture spray because I find hairspray leaves my hair quite hard and turns my curls crunchy. A full day of wearing hairspray can leave my hair feeling heavy and like it needs a good wash.
However, texture spray doesn’t feel as harsh on my hair; this is because it still allows for movement instead of freezing it in one particular shape. It’s this key difference that means it offers a more natural look. Not to mention, it also provides volume and leaves your hair much softer.
If you’re after a firm hold however and can’t risk anything ruining your hairstyle, a hairspray to finish off the look might be a better option. You can also layer the two, dependant on your needs and specific hair type.
Here’s my edit of the best texture sprays worth your money:
Hair By Sam McKnight Cool Girl Barely There Texture Mist, £27
I’m obsessed with Hair By Sam McKnight products, and this texture mist in particular is a firm fave. It not only smells absolutely incredible (the brand invested LOTS into its fragrance), it leaves hair feeling like it’s completely product-free.
This texture mist is great on slightly damp hair before it’s curled, and I always apply a generous amount to the finished look. My hairstyle always lasts for ages.
Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray, £19.50
This beloved texture spray from Oribe is the real deal. It’s probably the most versatile of them all as it can also be used in the place of a finishing mist, setting spray or dry shampoo. The volume it provides is perfect if you’re looking for big, bouncy curls.
Oribe’s offering always leaves my hair super shiny and the results are as if I’ve just stepped out of the hairdressers. A must-have product worth the extra investment, if you ask me.
Lee Stafford Effortless Texture Spray, £5.99
If you are into that ‘just woke up’ messy hair look, then you need to add this texture spray to your basket ASAP. Just like the ‘no makeup, makeup’ look, it looks completely natural, perfect for everyday use. It’s also the ultimate product if you need to keep flyaways at bay or have a touch of frizz.
Moroccanoil Dry Texture Spray, £18.46
I’m yet to fault any of the Moroccanoil hair products and its texture spray has once again raised the bar. The best part is that it contains argan oil, which is great for moisture and protects hair against everyday damage. I particularly love taking this on holiday with me and always use it to keep my beach waves intact for as long as possible. It never fails to impress.
Gisou Propolis infused Texturizing Wave Spray, £31
An all-round favourite brand of mine, I use a lot of Gisou products including its heat protector, mask and oil, so the Texture Wave Spray was a no-brainer for me. Compared to others, this one is more water-based and better for waves rather than curls. It combines many different oils, vitamins and minerals that are good for your hair, including its infamous propolis ingredient, which helps to prevent breakages and enhances hair growth. Ideal if you love that tousled, beachy vibe.
Schwarzkopf got2b Hair Texture Salt Spray, £5
You can always count on salt-infused sprays to nail that mermaid hairstyle and that’s exactly what this option does. Sea salt can sometimes make your hair feel crusty, but this spray is great at leaving your hair soft and smooth. It’s the perfect summer addition when you need a quick and easy texture spray to style your hair before running off to dinner. Who needs the beach when this creates the same effect?!
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