When it comes to high humidity, one of the most frustrating things is watching your perfectly coiffed hair quickly become frizzy and unmanageable. As someone who’s struggled with this issue, I’ve learned that having the right products can make all the difference. Specifically, anti-humidity hairsprays have been a game-changer for me. These special sprays are designed to combat the effects of high humidity on your hair, keeping it looking sleek and stylish even in the most humid environments.
But with so many options out there, how do you choose the best one? The key is understanding what makes a hairspray effective against humidity, and what features to look for when shopping. For example, certain ingredients can help repel moisture, while others can provide extra hold or smoothness. Additionally, some sprays are specifically designed for different hair types, so it’s important to consider your own hair characteristics when selecting a product.
With the right hairspray, you’ll be able to tackle humidity and keep your hair looking great all day long.
What to Know When Buying a Hairspray for High Humidity
While doubts about hairsprays’ effectiveness against humidity are understandable, we’re here to demystify what sets these special formulas apart. By exploring their unique characteristics and providing guidance on selecting the ideal product for your hair type and style, you’ll be empowered to make informed choices that leave frizz and flyaways behind.
Aerosols vs. Pump Sprays
Aerosols and non-aerosols differ significantly in their composition and application methods. Aerosols consist of a pressurized container that releases its contents as a fine mist, whereas non-aerosols are liquids dispersed using a pump. This fundamental difference has implications for the way products like hairspray are formulated and used.
While most hairsprays on the market are aerosols, some brands do offer pump-based alternatives, providing consumers with more options to suit their preferences.
Hair Type
When it comes to choosing the right hairspray for your tresses, it’s crucial to consider the unique characteristics of your locks. Some formulas can be too harsh, stripping away color or causing damage to fragile strands. Others may cater specifically to certain hair textures, such as straight or curly manes. Moreover, thicker hair requires a more robust hold, which is why understanding your hair type and needs is vital for achieving the perfect finish.
Strength
While all the hairsprays on this list excel at combating humidity, they don’t uniformly deliver the same level of hold. Are you seeking a product that will tame frizz and leave your hair looking polished, or do you need something to support more elaborate hairstyles? Your hair’s thickness is another crucial factor in determining the ideal hairspray strength. Moreover, as humidity levels rise, so too should the potency of your hairspray.
Scent
While hairspray formulas typically consist of a blend of alcohol and chemicals, the natural aroma isn’t often pleasing to the senses. As a result, many manufacturers opt to add strong artificial fragrances to their products, aiming to make them more palatable to users.
The catch is that these added scents can be highly polarizing, sparking strong preferences for certain olfactory profiles over others.
Some individuals might prefer hairsprays with a medicinal or floral note, while others may opt for fruity or neutral options.
Quick-Drying
When you’re getting ready to face the day, it’s frustrating when your hairspray doesn’t hold up. A common mistake people make is applying hairspray before their hair has fully set and dried. This can lead to a hairstyle that looks great for 10 minutes, but then starts to droop and lose its shape. To prevent this from happening, consider using a quick-drying hairspray that sets your style quickly so you can head out the door with confidence.
Long-Lasting
The duration of hair spray effectiveness can vary greatly, with some products providing hold for several days and others lasting mere hours. The type of hair spray one prefers often depends on the intended use – whether it’s for a long-lasting style or a quick fix that can be easily washed out.
UV Protection
When shopping for an anti-humidity hairspray, it’s essential to consider the overall weather protection it offers. While many products on the market provide a broad spectrum of protection, some may also include UV shielding. This is particularly important because hair damage caused by UV rays can lead to frizz and ultimately compromise your locks’ ability to resist humidity.
Cruelty-Free
While many well-known haircare brands still conduct animal testing, it’s reassuring to know that there are numerous cruelty-free alternatives available. In fact, with so many excellent choices on the market, making an informed decision can be overwhelming. So, let’s dive into the best options for hairsprays that resist humidity and put our doubts to rest once and for all.
Top 10 Best Hairsprays for High Humidity 2024
Best Overall Pick: TRESemmé Climate Control Finishing Spray
TRESemmé’s hairspray is a rare breed that excels in providing comprehensive protection against humidity, wind, and UV rays for all hair types. The 11 oz. aerosol spray is designed to keep your locks safe from the elements without sacrificing vibrancy and shininess. With minimal residue and a light feel, this hairspray ensures your hair remains healthy-looking.
While it’s not cruelty-free, its formula is impressive, containing keratin that gets inside your hair’s inner layers for extra protection against frizz. Olive oil helps retain moisture, making the combination strong enough to combat humidity, UV rays, and other environmental factors. The only drawback is its non-cruelty-free status, but considering alternative options like Living Proof Humidity Shield might be worth it if this is a priority.
Best Budget Pick: Garnier Fructis Style Sleek & Shine
When it comes to keeping your locks looking fabulous, Garnier’s hairspray is a reliable choice. Two key strengths of this product are its ability to maintain sleekness and its impressive 24-hour duration. Gone are the days when high-humidity hairsprays were limited to just one trick – this one proves that they can do more than just keep hair intact in humid conditions. With an Editor’s Rating, here are some quick facts about Garnier’s hairspray: it comes in an 8.
25 oz size and is available in both aerosol and pump spray versions. Suitable for finer hair, this medium to high-strength hairspray provides a fruity scent that won’t break the bank – just a few dollars per bottle. While it may not be the best choice for those looking for a cruelty-free product or seeking a stronger hold, Garnier’s hairspray does have its perks. The formula creates an ‘invisible shield’ around your hair, shielding it from environmental stressors and keeping frizz at bay.
Additionally, the absence of parabens and presence of nourishing ingredients like bamboo extract and silica make this hairspray a healthy choice for hair. The pros of Garnier’s hairspray include its impressive 24-hour duration, free-from-parabens formula, ability to keep hair sleek and smooth, and availability in pump spray form. On the downside, it’s not cruelty-free and may not provide the strongest hold – making it best suited for finer hair.
Best Premium Pick: John Frieda Frizz Ease Hairspray
John Frieda’s Frizz Ease Hairspray is a standout product in the world of hair care, and its unique formula is designed to tackle frizziness head-on. The hairspray’s special protective barrier, which features keratin and other ingredients, works to lock in moisture while keeping external stressors at bay, resulting in smooth-looking locks for up to 24 hours. This formula is particularly effective in high-humidity environments, making it an excellent choice for those with frizzy or thick hair.
Despite its firm hold, the hairspray doesn’t feel heavy or overpowering, allowing you to easily brush it out at the end of the day. The mild scent is also a plus, as it won’t leave you feeling like you’re wearing a perfume. While the product does have some drawbacks – it can make hair feel stiff and isn’t cruelty-free – its benefits far outweigh its limitations.
Best Volumizing: SexyHair Big Spray & Play
The allure of SexyHair’s hairspray lies in its ability to not only maintain, but enhance your hairstyle. Unlike other sprays that simply hold everything in place, this one adds volume and texture to give your hair an extra boost. This is particularly important because a hairspray that doesn’t make your hair look great is essentially useless. With its volumizing and enhancing properties, SexyHair’s spray excels at giving your locks some much-needed oomph.
While some may be impressed by a 24-hour hold, the truth is that this hairspray can last for an impressive 72 hours – provided you don’t need to wash it out before then! It also dries quickly, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine. However, not all will be pleased with the scent, which has been likened to chemicals rather than something more pleasant and fragrant.
If a fruity or floral smell is what you’re after, you may want to look elsewhere – although SexyHair’s spray does have its benefits. One of these benefits is its ability to protect your hair from humidity through the use of keratin amino acids, wheat protein, and botanicals like pequi seed oil. This triple threat helps to coat each strand, seal the cuticles, and add shine to your locks – all while decreasing frizz and making your hair stronger.
In terms of the pros and cons, SexyHair’s hairspray is a bit of a mixed bag. On the plus side, it gives hair extra thickness and volume, has a light finish, and lasts for an impressive 72 hours. On the downside, not everyone will be a fan of the smell, and the brand isn’t cruelty-free – although some may find these drawbacks acceptable in exchange for the benefits this spray provides.
Best for Colored Hair: ColorProof HumidityRx Hairspray
ColorProof’s HumidityRx hairspray is a game-changer for those with color-treated hair, as it not only tackles humidity but also provides high-quality ingredients and heat protection. This dream come true has earned its spot in our hearts. With a fine mist spray that feels light on the hair yet packs a punch, this hairspray offers excellent protection from the elements.
Its cruelty-free and vegan credentials set it apart from competitors, and the fact that you can recycle the bottle is an added bonus. While reapplication may be necessary every few hours for full protection, we can’t help but appreciate its commitment to keeping our locks healthy and strong. ColorProof’s dedication to color-treated hair is evident throughout their range, making this hairspray a trusted choice.
Its formula boasts cold-pressed sunflower seed extract, which provides antioxidants and healthy fatty acids to keep your hair resilient against environmental forces. Additionally, FlexShield Technology offers UVA and UVB radiation protection, while botanicals like rosemary and sage give your locks an extra boost of shine and health.
While some may find the need for reapplication every few hours a drawback, its moderate strength and cruelty-free nature make it a worthy consideration for those seeking a hairspray that truly delivers.
Best Quick Dry: L’Oréal Lock It Bold Control Hairspray
When we’re in a hurry, the last thing we want is for our hair to become frizzy or limp due to humidity. That’s where the Lock It Bold hairspray from L’Oréal Paris comes in – it’s a lifesaver for those who don’t have time to wait for their hair to dry. This aerosol hairspray can be used on all hair types, but its firm hold and lightweight mist make it particularly well-suited for finer, straighter hair.
While some may find the strong mint scent overpowering, this hairspray has a major advantage: it dries quickly, usually within just a few minutes, and then lasts up to 48 hours. That’s impressive, especially considering its affordable price tag. The Advanced Hairstyle Lock It formula uses Fibralock Tech, which locks each strand of hair in place, protecting it from humidity, water, and heat.
While it may not be the best choice for those looking for a cruelty-free product, this hairspray has several pros: quick drying time, long-lasting hold, and an affordable price. However, the strong mint scent is something to consider if you’re sensitive to fragrances.
Best for Sleekness: OGX Humidity Blocking Hairspray
We’re huge fans of the OGX humidity blocking spray because it not only shields your locks from humidity but also nourishes them with moisturizing ingredients like shea butter and glycerin. This combo ensures your hair stays healthy, shiny, and frizz-free for a long time. The 8 oz aerosol hairspray is designed for finer hair types, offering moderate hold that’s perfect for everyday use. The herbal scent might be polarizing, but it’s definitely a unique touch.
However, it’s not the strongest hairspray on the market, so those with thicker, curlier hair might find it too weak. The key to this spray’s effectiveness lies in its formula quality. Shea butter and glycerin work together to keep your locks smooth and moisturized, while marula oil adds an extra layer of protection against humidity. The keratin coating also helps shield your hair from heat styling tools.
While we love the OGX humidity blocking spray for its ability to leave our hair feeling light and silky, it’s not without its drawbacks. If you have thicker, curlier hair, you might find this spray too weak, and it’s not cruelty-free either.
Best Light Hairspray: Living Proof No Frizz Humidity Shield
Living Proof’s No Frizz hairspray offers an unexpected delight, providing six times more humidity protection while remaining remarkably weightless. The minimalistic design on the canister stands out in an industry often dominated by bold packaging. While the herbal scent may be overpowering for some, the formula itself is a game-changer. The star ingredient, Living Proof’s patented Healthy Hair Molecule, conditions and protects hair strands from humidity, static, and UV damage.
This cruelty-free and silicone-free hairspray is suitable for all hair types, including chemically treated locks. While it may not provide an extremely strong hold, its lightweight formula makes up for the lack of grip with its impressive list of benefits. The scent, while medicinal in nature, won’t overpower most users.
Best Restorative: Oribe Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray
Oribe Impermeable spray stands out as a game-changer for damaged locks, offering a unique combination of strengthening and thickening properties. This lightweight to moderate-strength hairspray has been tested in Miami’s high-humidity climate and proved its worth. The 2.2 oz bottle size is both a plus (travel-friendly) and a drawback (it won’t last long). Considering the premium price tag, this product may not be for everyone.
If budget is a concern, alternatives like Garnier Fructis Style hairspray could be explored. Oribe’s specially formulated copolymer ensures humidity-resistance, while UV protection keeps your locks sleek in all climates. The formula also boasts vitamins such as pro-vitamin B5, which builds volume and thickness, panthenol for swelling the hair shafts, and retinyl palmitate and tocopheryl acetate for added nourishment.
The absence of parabens and sodium chloride, common preservatives that can harm hair, further justifies the premium price. This high-quality blend of ingredients makes up for the product’s limitations.
Best Natural Hairspray: BIOLAGE Styling Freeze Fix Hair Spray
While many hairsprays rely on harsh chemicals to get the job done, BIOLAGE’s Styling Freeze Fix is a breath of fresh air. This aerosol hairspray is designed specifically for fine hair and boasts a moderate strength that holds all day without weighing it down. With its floral scent and commitment to sustainability – all products are carbon-neutral, made with sustainable energy, and 100% recyclable – it’s a rare find in the world of hairsprays.
And yet, despite being part of L’Oréal’s family, which does test on animals, this formula itself is vegan-friendly. The main drawback? It’s not strong enough for thicker hair types. In terms of effectiveness, BIOLAGE’s hairspray dries quickly and stays put all day, but its lack of water-resistance may be a concern in humid environments.
As with many products, the key to its nourishing properties lies in its blend of ingredients, including blue agave core, which repairs damage by retaining moisture, and glycerin, which coats the hair for improved humidity resistance. While it’s not perfect – it’s not totally cruelty-free and only works well for thin hair – BIOLAGE’s hairspray is a solid choice for those seeking a more natural solution.
Guide to Finding the Perfect Hairspray for High Humidity
The preceding selection of ten hairsprays has undoubtedly left an impression on you, hasn’t it? With such a wide range of options available, it’s only natural to wonder which one would be the best fit. Perhaps your hair type or styling habits have led you to question whether one hairspray might not be as effective for you as another. Whatever your concerns may be, rest assured that the solutions you’re seeking are just ahead.
How Can Hairsprays Help With Humidity?
When it comes to hairsprays, the formula typically involves a solvent and polymers. As we spray the solvent onto our locks, it evaporates, leaving behind the polymers that stiffen on our strands. Specifically, there are two primary polymers at play: polyvinylpyrrolidone, a water-soluble polymer capable of passing through the body, and polyvinyl acetate, often found in wood glue.
Think of hairspray as an invisible, chemical hairnet that provides protection, bonding with each other as it dries to leave our hair stiff and locked into place. For hairsprays designed to combat humidity, the formula takes a step further – incorporating polymers that create a water-resistant barrier or seal our hair, preventing frizz. The top-notch products not only provide hold but also promote healthier-looking locks with added volume and texture.
Should I Choose an Aerosol or a Pump Hairspray?
Aerosol hairsprays have long been plagued by a bad reputation, largely due to their past association with chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which were found to harm the environment. However, manufacturers have since switched to alternative ingredients, rendering this concern obsolete. This shift in formulation isn’t the only distinction between aerosols and pumps, though – they also influence hair texture differently.
Aerosol sprays are generally lighter, making them well-suited for fine, straight locks. In contrast, pump hairsprays are thicker, offering a more substantial hold that’s perfect for those with thicker or curlier hair seeking a heavier-duty treatment. If you’re considering a pump hairspray, the Garnier Fructis Style range offers a pump spray variant as an option.
Choosing the Right Anti-Humidity Hairspray for Different Hair Types
Choosing the right anti-humidity hairspray can be a daunting task, but it’s just the beginning. You also need to consider which type of hairspray is suitable for your unique hair characteristics. For those with fine hair, thicker hairsprays might not be the best option. Instead, look for lighter formulas like OGX Smoothing Hairspray, which provides hold without weighing down your locks.
At the other end of the spectrum, individuals with thick hair may require a stronger hairspray to keep their strands in check. John Frieda Frizz Ease Hairspray is an excellent choice for those who need extra oomph. For those with color-treated hair, preserving that vibrant hue is crucial. Unfortunately, regular hairsprays can strip your locks of their color and vibrancy if used excessively.
To combat this issue, opt for a specialized formula designed specifically for colored hair, such as ColorProof HumidityRx Hairspray. This innovative product provides the necessary hold without compromising on the integrity of your carefully crafted color.
Developing a Haircare Routine to Tackle Humidity
While selecting an excellent anti-humidity hairspray is crucial in maintaining a sleek mane and overcoming humidity-related issues, it’s not the only step to take. A well-rounded approach involves utilizing a combination of products from various brands, including shampoos, conditioners, and mousses that cater specifically to humidity-prone hair. Moreover, adopting a hairstyle that is harmonious with your natural hair texture can significantly simplify your daily routine.
For instance, if you have curly hair, it’s best not to straighten it when faced with high humidity levels, and similarly, those with straight hair should refrain from curling it in such conditions.
Hairspray With UV Protection
You might have noticed that some of the options listed here offer additional benefits beyond just styling – they also provide protection from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. But is this a feature you really need? And what exactly are UVA and UVB rays, anyway? To understand the importance of UV protection in hairstyling products, let’s take a step back to explore the basics.
The sun emits a range of UV radiation, including UVA, UVB, and UVC waves, each with its own unique wavelength. While all three types pose some level of risk, it’s the medium-wavelength UVB rays that are most commonly associated with skin damage, hair dryness, and cuticle damage. To mitigate these risks, consider using a hairspray like ColorProof HumidityRx, which not only helps to keep your style in place but also provides defense against UVA and UVB radiation.
FAQs
While striving for exhaustiveness, we recognize that there’s always room for further insight. To provide a more thorough understanding, let’s delve into some frequently asked questions surrounding hairsprays in general and those specifically designed for high humidity.
Does Hairspray Help With Humidity?
When it comes to addressing humidity concerns, hairspray is often overlooked as a viable solution. But in reality, it’s an incredibly effective tool for taming frizzy locks. By applying a lightweight layer of hairspray to the hair, you can create a barrier that prevents moisture from penetrating and causing damage. This protective coating helps to smooth out even the most unruly strands, leaving your hair looking sleek and manageable – regardless of the humidity levels outside.
Are Hairspray Fumes Harmful?
While hairspray may not have the most pleasant aroma, its safety profile is generally reassuring. Ingesting or inhaling small amounts won’t likely cause harm. However, as a precautionary measure, we advise against intentionally exposing yourself to excessive amounts.
Is Hairspray Bad for Hair?
While hairspray isn’t inherently damaging to your locks, it’s crucial to choose a formula that incorporates nourishing ingredients. However, there’s a common mistake that can cause damage: brushing your hair after spraying it with hairspray. This mechanical stress can disrupt the cuticle layer and lead to breakage. Furthermore, overusing hairspray can result in a dull, lifeless appearance.
By being mindful of these potential pitfalls and selecting a high-quality hairspray, you can keep your tresses looking great without compromising their health.
Can Hairspray Be Used As Setting Spray?
While hairspray may be suitable for styling your hair, applying it to your skin can lead to disastrous consequences. The harsh chemicals present in hairspray are not conducive to healthy skin and can result in a myriad of issues, including clogged pores, unpleasant rashes, and more severe complications. It’s crucial to steer clear of using hairspray on your skin even in situations where you feel compelled to do so.
Don’t Let the Humidity Get You Down
Hairspray has been a staple in many women’s beauty routines since its creation in the 1960s, originally designed to hold beehive hairstyles in place. Fast forward to today, and this classic product has evolved to address a new challenge: humidity. With its ability to combat frizz and keep locks looking sleek, hairspray has become an essential item for those living in humid climates. However, finding the perfect anti-humidity hairspray is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Factors such as location-specific humidity levels and individual hair types all play a role in determining the best product for your needs. By taking the time to assess your situation and consider your options carefully, you can make an informed decision that will leave you feeling confident and prepared to take on any day, regardless of the humidity.
