For those who love the effortless, beachy waves that come with spending time in the ocean, the idea of achieving that same style at home can be a tantalizing prospect. And yet, many of us find ourselves stuck in a styling rut, unable to recreate the perfect waves without the help of sea salt. But what if you could take a little bit of that beachy magic and bring it back to your daily routine? With the right sea salt spray, the possibilities are endless.
The key to achieving those coveted beachy waves lies not just in the quality of the sea salt spray itself, but also in its ability to add texture, volume, and natural-looking movement to your hair. And with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of sea salt sprays, from the best products for your hair type to expert styling tips.
Whether you’re looking to add some extra oomph to your daily style or create a special occasion look, the right sea salt spray can make all the difference. So why not take the plunge and discover the wonders of this ocean-inspired hair treatment for yourself?
Why Use Sea Salt Spray?
In recent years, sea salt spray has emerged as a go-to styling tool for achieving effortless, beachy locks. This versatile product is perfect for creating voluminous, wavy hairstyles that exude a carefree, ocean-inspired vibe. Whether you’re looking to define natural curls and waves or add texture to thin or fine hair, sea salt spray is an excellent choice. Its unique formula can help enhance your hair’s natural movement, giving you a undone, piecey look that’s perfect for everyday wear.
Top 10 Best Sea Salt Sprays 2024
Best Overall Spray: Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Sea Salt Spray
Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe spray is a popular choice among hair enthusiasts, and for good reason. Its lightweight formula comes in two intensity options, allowing you to tailor the texture to your hair type. Whether you have thin, straight locks or thicker curls, this sea salt spray is suitable for all. While it may not be as moisturizing as some competitors, its lack of added ingredients means it won’t weigh your hair down with extra product buildup.
If hydration is a priority, you may want to consider another option. That being said, the 2-pack configuration makes this spray an economical choice. Each variety has a pleasant tropical scent that’s not overpowering. Overall, Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe spray is a great starting point for those new to sea salt sprays, and its lightweight texture means it won’t leave your hair feeling greasy or heavy. If you’re looking for a stronger-scented option, you might prefer Sun Bum Sea Spray.
In the end, the pros of this product include its value 2-pack, pleasant tropical scent, and lightweight formula. The cons are that it’s not as moisturizing as some other options.
Best Premium Spray: Beauty by Earth Sea Salt Spray
Beauty by Earth’s Sea Salt Spray is a standout product that not only delivers on its promises but also meets the highest standards of quality and sustainability. With a carefully curated blend of organic ingredients, this spray is designed to leave your hair looking and feeling fantastic. The formula combines the nourishing properties of shea butter and aloe vera to hydrate locks, while vitamin E extract helps boost shine.
One of its greatest strengths lies in its commitment to using only natural ingredients, free from parabens, synthetic fragrances, and dyes. This vegan and cruelty-free product is perfect for those who prioritize ethical purchasing. However, the higher price point may be a deterrent for some. Nevertheless, many will argue that the value of premium organic ingredients justifies the cost.
Best Budget Spray: John Frieda Beach Blonde Sea Waves
John Frieda’s Beach Blonde spray is a popular choice for achieving effortless, beachy waves without breaking the bank. The product stands out for its ease of use, thanks to its fine mist nozzle that evenly distributes the sea salt formula throughout your hair. This eliminates the need for brushing or styling after application, making it a great option for those with busy schedules.
As part of John Frieda’s professional line of cosmetics products, this spray is surprisingly affordable and offers a natural-looking wave without overpowering hold. While some users may be deterred by the presence of preservatives and alcohol in the formula, the light, beachy scent is generally well-received. For those seeking an alternative with a more pleasant aroma, our best overall pick, Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Sea Salt Spray, offers similar benefits without the drawbacks.
Best Spray for UV Protection: Sun Bum Sea Spray
Sun Bum’s Sea Spray is a standout product that combines the benefits of a great leave-in conditioner with the protection of a sun shield. This wonderfully scented spray reduces frizz and helps safeguard your locks from the damaging effects of UV rays, thanks to its fortifying blend of kelp, seaweed, and Hawaiian black lava sea salt. The result is hair that remains healthy, vibrant, and protected from becoming brittle or dull.
Not only does it work wonders for all hair types, but it’s particularly effective at taming long locks and creating beachy waves that look effortlessly cool. The scent, a refreshing blend of coconut and banana, is pleasant without being overpowering. While the spray nozzle can be a bit finicky to control, resulting in a stream rather than a mist, the benefits far outweigh any minor drawbacks.
With regular use, you can expect your hair to remain healthy, full of life, and resistant to the ravages of sun exposure. For those who prefer a simpler application process, John Frieda’s Beach Blonde Sea Waves might be a more suitable option.
Best Volumizing Spray: L’ange Hair Sea Salt Spray
The L’ange Hair Sea Salt Spray is a standout product that effortlessly combines light application with impressive volume and textured hold, even on the finest of hair types. One of its standout features is its ability to leave hair feeling soft and hydrated, thanks to the expert blend of ingredients like seaweed and sea kelp. This versatile spray can be used on both wet and dry hair, making it a great option for those looking to add some extra oomph to their look.
One of the key benefits of this product is its ability to provide extreme volume, especially when paired with a blow dryer. This can be particularly useful for those looking to add some much-needed lift to dull-looking locks or enhance natural curls. However, it’s worth noting that the product does have a tendency to leave hair feeling slightly sticky, which may be amplified in humid environments.
If you’re looking to avoid this effect, a more lightweight option like Joico Beach Shake Texturizing Finisher may be a better bet. Despite this minor drawback, the L’ange Hair Sea Salt Spray is a great option for those seeking to add some extra life and texture to their thin hair.
Best Spray for Fine Hair: Joico Beach Shake Texturizing Finisher
Joico’s Beach Shake Texturizing Finisher stands out as a top pick due to its unique ability to provide texturizing hold without weighing down fine hair. The quick-drying formula is specifically designed to give fine locks a boost of volume and texture, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a lightweight product that doesn’t compromise on style.
This versatile spray excels at spot touch-ups, allowing users to enhance volume at the roots or create wavy ends while adding a healthy shine to their hair. Whether applied all over or targeted to specific areas, Beach Shake Texturizing Finisher effortlessly produces a natural, smooth wave.
However, it’s essential to note that this product can cause tangling issues and may prove difficult to remove by day’s end; in such cases, taking a shower and gently combing out the product is the most effective solution. When used correctly, Joico’s Beach Shake Texturizing Finisher proves to be a reliable go-to for fine-haired individuals seeking added texture and volume without sacrificing style.
Best Spray for Definition: OGX Moroccan Sea Salt Spray
OGX’s Moroccan Sea Salt Spray is a go-to product for achieving beachy, textured locks that work well on various hair types. The key to its success lies in the combination of argan oil and sea salt extract, which together create loose, defined waves. This spray is particularly beneficial for those with naturally curlier or thicker hair, as it enhances curls and keeps them in place without feeling heavy.
Another plus: the formula is free from parabens and sulfates, making it a gentle option that won’t dry out your locks. However, some users may notice a residue left behind after drying, which can require brushing to achieve a smoother look. Additionally, the spray’s texture can make hair feel slightly stiff before brushing. If you’re looking for an alternative that dries softer on your hair, consider KICK Sea Salt Spray instead.
Most Long-Lasting Spray: KICK Sea Salt Spray
KICK Sea Salt Spray is a go-to product for those seeking all-day hold and voluminous beach waves. Its long-lasting formula delivers instant results, working equally well on both wet and dry hair. The textured wave appearance it creates will withstand the demands of your busy lifestyle without losing its charm. What’s more, this spray is gentle enough to leave hair feeling softer, thanks to its chemical- and alcohol-free composition.
If you’re unsure about trying it out, rest assured that the company offers a risk-free money-back guarantee. However, it’s essential to note that this product may not be suitable for those with naturally curly or wavy hair, as it can clump up their natural texture, making it appear dull and chunky. When used sparingly on such hair types, KICK Sea Salt Spray remains a great option. Pros include its long-lasting formula, instant results, money-back guarantee, and chemical-free composition.
The only drawback is its ineffectiveness on curly hair.
Best Spray for Men: Brickell Men’s Texturizing Sea Salt Spray
We’re big fans of Brickell Men’s Sea Salt Spray, and here’s why: it’s specifically designed to add texture and volume to men’s hair, whether you’ve got short locks or longer strands. The formula is great for creating a natural, effortless look that’s reminiscent of the beach. Plus, it’s infused with healthy ingredients like vitamin E, hydrolyzed proteins, and green tea extract, which help to hydrate and strengthen your hair.
This makes it a great choice if you’ve got dry or damaged locks that need a little TLC. Just be aware that the spray can leave your hair feeling greasy if you use it too frequently, so be sure to wash it out thoroughly between uses and limit your application to every other day.
Best Matte Finish Spray: Davines This Is a Sea Salt Spray
Davines’ This Is A Sea Salt Spray is a game-changer for those seeking a natural, effortless hairstyle. By providing a subtle matte finish, the spray gives hair a full-bodied look that’s perfect for everyday wear. What sets this product apart from others on the market is its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Founded in Italy, Davines is dedicated to creating high-quality, ethically sourced products that don’t compromise on performance.
The sea salt formula delivers a dry, textured finish without adding shine or gloss, making it an excellent choice for those who want to achieve a relaxed, wavy texture without the fuss. While some users may experience flaky residue and itchiness on their scalp, these drawbacks are minor compared to the spray’s many benefits. For those prioritizing sustainability in their beauty routine, This Is A Sea Salt Spray is a great option.
Your Complete Guide to Sea Salt Sprays
Unravel the mystery surrounding sea salt sprays by diving into our comprehensive guide, where we’ll address every question you’ve ever had about these popular hair care products.
How Does Sea Salt Spray Work?
Sea salt sprays, essentially a concentrated form of saltwater, can transform hair with their dehydrating properties. As the salt interacts with the hair, it adds texture and wave, replicating the effects of swimming in the ocean or other bodies of saltwater.
Modern sea salt sprays have evolved to include additional ingredients that enhance their performance, allowing them to not only add volume but also produce a desired level of shine or matte finish, while maintaining hold for extended periods.
Benefits of Using a Sea Salt Spray
The versatility of sea salt sprays is truly remarkable, as they can benefit a wide range of hair types in unique ways. For instance, on straight hair, these products can introduce texture and create loose, beachy waves that add volume to longer styles or dimension to shorter cuts. Similarly, for curly or wavy hair, a sea salt spray can help define natural textures, reduce frizz, and leave hair with a softer appearance.
Oily locks, on the other hand, can benefit from the absorbent properties of salt, which helps to control excess oil and make styling easier. For thin or fine hair, a sea salt spray can create the illusion of thicker locks by adding volume and texture, while preventing hair from falling flat throughout the day. Finally, for those with thicker hair, these products can provide a solid foundation for styling, introducing hold and texture that makes it easier to achieve desired looks.
Can Sea Salt Spray Thicken Hair?
Sea salt sprays may not literally thicken hair, but they can create an illusion of thicker locks. The salt in these products adheres to hair strands, imparting a gritty texture that can visually enhance volume and thickness. Furthermore, it can simplify styling, making your mane more manageable. Some sea salt sprays, like Brickell Men’s Texturizing Sea Salt Spray, contain ingredients that promote long-term hair health by strengthening and thickening your locks with repeated use.
Is Sea Salt Spray Bad for Hair?
While sea salt spray can be a great styling product for many hair types, it’s essential to consider your individual hair characteristics before using it. For those with dry, damaged, or naturally curly hair, sea salt spray may not be the best choice, as the salt can strip moisture and cause breakage. Even if you do use it, be sure to follow up with a conditioning treatment to combat any negative effects.
In fact, applying too much sea salt spray at once is a common mistake, resulting in hair that feels heavy, sticky, or even crunchy. If this happens, wash the product out as soon as possible and comb your hair while it’s still wet to ensure every strand is properly separated and cleansed.
As for using sea salt spray daily, it’s technically possible, but it may not be the most nourishing option for your locks, especially if you have naturally curly or dry hair.
In this case, look for a product that incorporates hydrating ingredients, such as the Beauty by Earth Sea Salt Spray, to help mitigate any potential damage.
How to Use a Sea Salt Spray
When it comes to using sea salt spray, the key is understanding how to apply it to achieve the desired style. Wet hair offers an opportunity for a full-bodied, wavy look with added volume once dry. To start, towel-dry your hair until slightly damp, then apply the spray from roots to ends, coating all of your locks. You can either work the product through with your hands for a relaxed beach vibe or comb it through for a more polished style.
Let your hair air dry, avoiding unnecessary touching that can lead to frizz. Alternatively, you can use a blow dryer for increased volume. For dry hair, sea salt spray serves as a tool for boosting volume, defining natural curls, and achieving a matte finish. Simply apply the product across your hair and work it in with your hands if looking to add oomph.
If seeking maximum matte effect, comb through the product; this will result in a more intentional, slightly flattened style compared to a bigger, casual wavy look.
Styling Pro Tips
To achieve that effortless beach look, start by scrunching sea salt spray into your wet hair to distribute the product evenly and create a loose wave shape. This technique can also be used on dry hair to add extra definition. For longer-lasting waves, try lightly curling your dry hair with a curling iron, then applying sea salt spray and allowing it to dry completely. To maximize volume, flip your hair upside down before application and focus the product at the roots.
You can also use a volumizing sea salt spray for added oomph. Alternatively, spot treat specific areas of your hair with sea salt spray to add lift, definition, or subtle waves, depending on where you apply it. Just remember to scrunch the product in as it dries to achieve that undone, beachy look.
Using Sea Salt Spray While You Sleep
When you want to achieve beachy waves without sacrificing sleep, there are two clever ways to style your hair overnight. First, apply sea salt spray to damp locks and braid it up – be it one long braid for loose, flowing waves or a French braid for added volume and texture near the roots. Alternatively, scrunch your hair into place and tie it up in a pineapple-style ponytail (think: a messy top-knot).
Let your hair dry overnight, then release the braids or untie the ponytail to reveal effortlessly wavy locks. If needed, add some Moroccan argan oil to tame any frizz and voilà! You’ll wake up with perfectly imperfect beachy waves.
Making Your Own Sea Salt Spray
To achieve that effortless, beach-inspired hairstyle at home, making your own sea salt spray is an excellent DIY project. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic mixing, you can create a customized solution that suits your hair type and style.
To get started, gather the following materials: a plastic spray bottle, one to one-and-a-half cups of warm water, one teaspoon of coconut, olive, or avocado oil (choose your favorite), two teaspoons to a tablespoon of sea salt (adjust the amount for the level of texture you prefer), and a few drops of essential oil for added fragrance (optional). If you’re concerned about dryness or moisture loss, consider adding a small amount of leave-in conditioner to balance things out.
To create the spray, simply combine all the ingredients in a large bowl until the salt and oils are fully dissolved. Then, pour the mixture into your prepared spray bottle and start using it. Feel free to adjust the recipe as needed – add more leave-in conditioner for softer hair, use more sea salt for enhanced curl definition, or incorporate vitamin E oil for extra benefits.
Remember to shake the bottle well before each use, as the oil can separate from the water over time.
With proper storage and care, your homemade sea salt spray should last up to four months.
While regular table salt will technically work in a pinch, using high-quality mineral sea salt is recommended for that signature beachy look. So go ahead, get creative, and discover the perfect blend of ingredients to give you the hairstyle you desire.
More Techniques for Beachy Waves
To achieve flowing beach waves, you can try a few methods beyond using sea salt spray. One approach is to use a curling iron or curling wand. Simply wrap the middle section of your hair loosely, avoiding the ends and don’t over-curl it. Once you’ve curled all your hair, gently finger comb through it to loosen the curls and create waves. This method works particularly well with straighter hair types. Another option is to braid your hair while it’s damp but not soaking wet.
Flip your hair upside down, divide it into three sections, and braid away. In the morning, you can undo the braids and apply a smoothing oil or gel to keep the style in place. The upside-down braid creates loose waves that add volume without looking messy or tangled. If heat styling tools aren’t your thing, you can still achieve beachy waves using a flat iron. Clamp a section of hair into the iron and twist it as you move down the length of your hair to create large, crimped waves.
This method works on both curly and coily hair, and you can check out online tutorials or videos for more guidance. Finally, if you’re looking for a heat-free option, try using a headband to create beachy waves. Start by putting the headband on top of your dry hair, then section off your locks and spritz each one with water. Twist each section around the headband and hold it in place before repeating the process until all your hair is curled.
Once you’ve twisted all your hair, set it with hairspray and gently brush through it to loosen the curls. You can finish the look with a hair gel or styling oil if desired.
Obtaining Beach Perfect Style
Achieving beach-perfect hair is a coveted goal for many of us. The good news is that sea salt spray can be a game-changer in helping to bring our daydreams to life. To find the ideal product, it’s essential to consider both your hair type and the specific wavy style you’re aiming for. By taking this approach, you’ll be able to discover a sea salt spray that perfectly complements your locks and helps you achieve the beachy look you’ve always wanted.
