When it comes to volumizing hair products there’s one that puts the rest to shame. We’re breaking down everything to know about texture spray.

If you could only use one styling product on your hair for the rest of your life, you'd be remiss not to choose texture spray. This hero product is a staple in every stylist’s toolkit, and for good reason. So what does texture spray do? The short answer is that it gives you your very best hair days. The longer answer is that it holds like hairspray, absorbs oil like dry shampoo and adds volume like mousse- all in one product! And it works on all hair types, from fine to thick, straight to curly and short to long. If effortlessly chic, lived-in strands are your vibe, then texture spray is your go-to product. Ahead is everything you need to know about this mult-tasking must-have- including what texture spray does, how to use it and how it compares to other products. Keep reading for our deep dive into all things texture spray.

Texture spray is a styling product that’s applied to dry hair to enhance texture, volume, and lift. It's not not quite a hair spray, salt-spray or dry shampoo, but it works just as well in place of all three. Texture spray gives your hair that lived-in second-day feel. You know how it’s always easier to style hair that hasn’t been freshly washed? Texture spray gives you that grit. Plus, you can use it whether you wear your hair straight, wavy or curly. It’s perfect for all hair types, but especially for creating lift at the root of fine to medium hair.

Ok we’ve convinced you that texture spray will give you the hair of your dreams. But what exactly does texture spray do? Think undone perfection. It gives your stands volume and pieciness to make any hairstyle look more effortless. Regardless of your hair type, but especially if you have very soft or pin-straight strands, a texture spray gives your hair grip to hold your style, without slipping out of place. The same goes for using it on freshly-washed hair, which can often be too soft and slippery to work with. Texture spray works just as well on second, third or fourth-day hair, absorbing excess oils and product build-up for a refreshed scalp and strands. Texture spray even works to reduce frizz in wavy hair, for defined, shiny waves and bends. And last but not least, you can use this superstar product as a finishing spray on your curly hair, making curls last longer.

Texture spray can be used in place of your hair spray, but is it hair spray? Not exactly. The comparison between texture spray vs hair spray is that it holds your style in place. But the results won’t be exactly the same. Hair spray gives a more sleek or polished look, and texture spray’s results are slightly more undone and natural. Hairspray is great for taming flyaways and keeping your style perfectly in place, but it can leave the hair stiff, heavy or crunchy, making it hard to restyle after you use it. While texture spray adds body and movement for an intentionally unfinished look. Basically like you woke up with perfect hair.

Texture spray absorbs excess oil and product build-up in the hair, just like dry shampoo. But unlike dry shampoo, texture spray is invisible and leaves behind no noticeable residue in the hair. And compared to sea salt spray, which it’s often compared to because of its beachy-wave-making abilities, it’s much more moisturizing for your strands.

Ready to learn how to use texture spray and make all your bad-hair days disappear? You can use it a number of different ways depending on your desired end results. For instance, if you’re using heat to style your hair, don’t reach for texture spray until after you create your hair’s new shape. But if you’re pulling your dry hair into an updo, you can use it before, during and after styling. Always shake the can of texture spray for best results and take note that it works best on dry hair. Hold the product six to eight inches away from your head and spray in a circular motion. For even distribution and all-over volume, lift large sections of hair and spray underneath from root to tip. Flip your head sideways and upside down, spraying small bursts near the roots and throughout the lengths of your hair. Repeat until your desired style is achieved, and remember to shake the can between each spray. You can also use texture spray in your strands before creating updos and braids, and on finished styles for longer-lasting hold.

Wondering when to use texture spray? And if you can use it every day? The answer is yes. Texture spray is a gentle, lightweight styling product that gives your hair an airy volume and texture. So you can use it on day one of your style, day two, day three, and so on. It adds more volume and texture to your strands with every spray. Avoid weighing down your hair with everyday use by following a healthy hair routine using the right shampoo and nourishing conditioner for your hair type and doing a weekly scalp treatment.

There are several key factors to consider when choosing the best texture spray for your strands including your hair type, the spray’s formula, finish, and performance. To start, like all styling products, choose a formula created for your hair type. Be aware of the ingredients in your spray. Certain texturizers, like alcohols and salts, pull the moisture from the hair. If your hair is already dry or damaged, these can penetrate the hair’s cuticle and strip them even further of moisture. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still use texture spray. Choose a high quality sulfate and paraben free formula with natural ingredients like Davines’ This Is A Dry Texturizing Finishing Spray to keep your hair smooth and healthy. This texture spray gives you a re-workable texture and a piecey, defined hold, for an instant full-bodied, tousled look without weighing it down. 

We mentioned earlier that texture spray works especially well on thinner hair types. So what does texture spray do for fine hair specifically? A texture spray is the best product to add texture to fine hair, and a natural lift at the roots. It texturizers the hair without harming the cuticle, similar to teasing your hair, without the damage. You can use it as a finishing spray after styling skinny strands or or skip the heat tools and spray it on dry hair for a messy bedhead look. It can also be used to give fine hair the grip needed to hold braids and updos. And finally, fine hair tends to be on the oily side, so it’s important to avoid heavy styling products like pomades or waxes. Texture spray is lightweight and won’t leave your fine hair weighed down. 

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about texture spray, with expert answers from our stylists.

Should I use texture spray before or after curling my hair? We recommend using texture spray after curling your hair, because it contains a holding element that helps curls to keep their shape longer.

Does texture spray work on straight hair? Yes! It works on all hair types, but especially well on straighter strands that need grip to help them hold their style.

Does texture spray help in holding curls? You can use texture spray to enhance the texture of all hair types, including curly. So yes, texture spray will help extend the hold of your curls.

Does texture spray work well with other hair products? It sure does. So if you’re happy with your styling routine as it is, but just want a little more texture, spray away.

So what does texture spray do? To sum it up, this multi-tasking must-have adds grit and natural movement to all hair types, making it easier to achieve perfect hairstyles, without weighing your hair down. Texture spray also helps prevent frizz and adds definition to wavy and curly hair. It's also perfect for freshening up your style in between wash days. Whatever your hair type, dry texture spray is a must in your product arsenal. From boosting volume, to absorbing oil, preserving a blowout, and holding braids and updos- all in one product, texture spray is all your favorite products in one. Remember to use only high quality formulas like the ones from Davines. Our texturizing products add long-lasting, volume and workable texture for healthy, beautiful hair.

by Jaclyn LaBadia, featured contributor