It wasn’t long ago that the idea of men using hairspray might have seemed unusual. But times have definitely changed. While hairspray has traditionally been marketed towards women, more and more men are discovering just how useful this product can be for styling and keeping their hair in place. If you’re still on the fence about it, let me tell you—there’s no real difference between hairspray and other men’s styling products. In fact, I’ve found it to be one of the best tools for ensuring a lasting hold.
In this post, I’ll walk you through some of the best hairsprays for men, based on my own testing. I’ll also cover how to apply hairspray correctly and the different types and features that can help you choose the right one for your hair.
So, let’s get into it. Your hair—and your style—will thank you.
Before You Buy: 7 Things to Consider When Purchasing Hairspray
Just like with any other grooming product, finding the right hairspray comes down to understanding your needs. Whether you’re looking for more volume or just something to keep your style locked in, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. After testing several products, here are the factors I think are most important when choosing the best hairspray for your hair:
1. Your Type of Hair
One of the most important things to consider is your hair type. From my experience, thicker, wavier hair benefits the most from hairspray, but that doesn’t mean it won’t work for you if you have fine or curly hair. Look for a product that matches your hair’s needs. Trust me, it makes a big difference. Most labels will tell you whether a spray is designed for thicker, thinner, or curly hair, so keep an eye out for that.
2. Strength of Hold
When I’m out and about, especially on windy or rainy days, I want a spray that holds everything in place. Some hairsprays are designed for a firm hold, while others offer more flexibility. If you like your hair to stay in place, go for a maximum hold spray. But if you prefer your waves to move naturally, you might be better off with a light or medium hold. I’ve found it’s all about balance and personal preference.
3. Type of Hairspray
There are several different types of hairspray, and choosing the right one depends on your hair type and what you’re trying to achieve. Here’s a breakdown of the different kinds:
Table of Contents
- Hold: Whether you’re after flexible, medium, or maximum hold, make sure you’re choosing a spray that fits your needs. I recommend looking at reviews and product descriptions to get an idea of how much hold you’re getting.
- Thickening: If you have thin hair like me, a thickening hairspray can work wonders. It adds texture and volume, making your hair appear fuller and more substantial.
- Frizz Control: I’ve found that nothing ruins a great style faster than frizz, especially in humid weather. If you deal with frizz, go for a spray specifically designed to tame it.
- Weightless: This type of hairspray is perfect for those who want to add texture without a stiff, heavy feel. You’ll still have flexibility to move your hair without sacrificing hold.
4. Ingredients
I always check the ingredients list before choosing a hairspray. While it’s common to find lots of complex-sounding chemicals, many brands now focus on natural ingredients that are gentle on your hair and scalp. I prefer products with more natural ingredients, but there’s nothing wrong with a spray that uses polymers if it does the job well. Just be sure it’s safe for your hair and the environment.
5. Finish
The finish is another key factor to consider. Some sprays leave your hair looking natural, while others add a noticeable shine. Personally, I prefer a more matte finish, but if you like a glossy look, go for a spray that promises high shine. I’ve found that for thicker hair, a natural finish tends to work best, as it avoids any excess product buildup.
6. Brand
There are a lot of big names in the haircare industry, from Paul Mitchell to L’Oreal, and they’re known for producing high-quality products. But don’t overlook smaller, lesser-known brands either. I’ve discovered some excellent products from these under-the-radar companies, often at more affordable prices.
7. Price
While you can find great hairsprays at any price point, I’ve noticed that quality hairsprays tend to range from $8 to $30. You might pay a bit more for premium brands, but it’s not always necessary. Sometimes a well-priced product from a lesser-known brand can deliver just as well.
Now that you know what to look for, let’s get into the best hairsprays I’ve personally tested.
The 7 Best Hairsprays for Men
1. Sexyhair Big Spray & Play Volumizing Hairspray
What stands out:
- Adds volume
- Strong hold
- Anti-humidity
If you like bolder styles like faux hawks or spikes, Sexyhair Big Spray & Play Volumizing Hairspray is going to be your best friend. This spray keeps those daring styles in place while adding a touch of shine, and it’s great for men and women alike. I tested it on some more ambitious styles, and it held up perfectly—even in humidity. One of its best features is that it’s pliable enough to brush through after application, so you don’t have to deal with a stiff helmet-like feel.
While it’s marketed for bold hairstyles, I found it works well for a range of looks, and it significantly reduces frizz for up to 72 hours. That makes it perfect for anyone living in humid climates.
Pros:
- Ideal for bold, structured hairstyles
- Reduces frizziness for days
- Adds noticeable volume
Cons:
- Using too much can lead to excess shine
Bottom line:
This is one of my favorite all-around sprays. It works for a variety of styles, adds volume, and controls frizz, all while keeping your hair flexible enough to restyle throughout the day.
2. TIGI Bed Head Hard Head Extra Strong Hold Hairspray
Some hairsprays do a great job holding your hair in place but come with downsides like excess stickiness or an unnatural look, leaving your hair feeling like a rock-hard helmet. Thankfully, TIGI Bed Head Hard Head Extra Strong Hold Hairspray manages to avoid these issues, providing a powerful hold without the stiff, sticky feeling.
In my experience, this spray offers excellent durability, even in humidity, and helps your style stay in place throughout the day. It’s particularly effective for men who prefer messy, casual hairstyles that don’t look overly styled but still need some control. I’ve tested it in different conditions, and it works wonders even for frizzy or unruly hair.
What I really like about this spray is that, despite its strong hold, it still leaves your hair with enough flexibility and movement. It dries quickly and doesn’t create that overpowering crunch you get with some other products. Plus, its formula helps condition and protect your hair, making it a solid all-around option for both styling and hair care.
The spray also includes aminomethyl propanol, which adjusts your hair’s pH level, helping maintain healthy hair. And while it does leave a bit of shine, it’s not overly glossy. The citrusy scent is subtle and pleasant, which is always a plus.
I found that a thin layer is usually enough to keep everything in place, but it’s also easy to layer on more throughout the day if needed.
Pros:
- Superior hold that lasts
- A little goes a long way
- Helps condition and protect hair
Cons:
- The nozzle can be tricky to control at times
Bottom line:
TIGI’s Bed Head Hard Head Hairspray delivers excellent hold without the downsides of stickiness or stiffness, and it’s great for a variety of hair types and styles. It’s definitely one of the stronger sprays I’ve tested, but it keeps hair looking natural.
3. Oribe Superfine Strong Hair Spray
When it comes to premium styling products, Oribe is a name that consistently delivers, and their Superfine Strong Hair Spray is no exception. Made with high-quality ingredients like plant-derived humectants, hydrolyzed wheat protein, and vitamin B5, this spray does more than just hold your hair—it nourishes it too.
What sets this spray apart from others I’ve tried is how well it conditions the hair while providing a strong, reliable hold. It works especially well on finer hair, locking in your style while adding volume and thickness without feeling heavy. After using it, my hair felt healthier and had a great shine, thanks to the aloe leaf extract and nettle leaf extract that hydrate and add a natural glow.
The spray also protects your hair from UV damage and prevents color fading, which is ideal if you have colored hair or spend a lot of time outdoors. While it’s undeniably expensive, the quality speaks for itself. The fragrance is another highlight—it’s light, pleasant, and not at all chemical-smelling, unlike some other sprays on the market.
Pros:
- Nourishes and protects hair while providing strong hold
- Adds volume and shine
- Gentle, non-chemical scent
Cons:
- On the pricier side
Bottom line:
Oribe’s Superfine Strong Hair Spray is perfect if you’re looking for a high-end product that provides excellent hold while also caring for your hair. Though it’s expensive, the results are worth it if you’re after a premium experience.
4. Boldify Thickening Spray
If you’re looking for more volume in your hairstyle, Boldify Thickening Spray is a fantastic choice. I’ve tested a lot of volumizing sprays, but this one really stands out. What’s even better is that it’s free of harmful chemicals like parabens, alcohol, and sulfates, making it one of the best natural hairsprays out there.
What I love most about Boldify is how quickly it works—within 60 seconds, you’ll notice your hair looking fuller and more textured. After spraying a moderate mist over wet hair and letting it dry, my hair had noticeable lift and volume, without feeling weighed down or sticky.
The formula is lightweight, meaning you get a natural, textured finish without any gunky residue. It’s not a heavy hold spray, but it offers just enough control to keep your style in place throughout the day. I also found it works well as a pre-styler, giving my hair that extra boost before applying any other products.
Boldify’s Thickening Spray is particularly good for men with thinner hair who want to experiment with more ambitious styles. That said, it’s versatile enough to work for any hair type, providing volume without making your hair feel heavy or sticky.
Pros:
- Thickens hair and adds volume
- Lightweight, non-sticky formula
- Free from parabens, alcohol, and sulfates
Cons:
- Some users report it leaves hair feeling a bit dry
Bottom line:
Boldify Thickening Spray is an excellent choice for men with thinning hair, but it works just as well for any hair type. Its lightweight formula adds volume without leaving residue, making it a great all-around option for styling.
5. Baxter of California Clay Effect Style Spray for Men
Baxter of California is a trusted brand for men’s grooming, and their Clay Effect Style Spray lives up to the reputation. Made with natural ingredients like bamboo leaf extract, jojoba oil, and green tea, this spray offers a light-to-moderate hold with a natural, matte finish.
One thing to note is that this spray is more about texture and volume than an ultra-strong hold. If you prefer a look where you can still move your hair around, this spray is ideal. It’s perfect for achieving that effortless, natural style that looks great without too much effort.
The formula is great for fighting frizz and static, so if you’re prone to unruly hair, this spray will help keep things in check without weighing your hair down. The natural ingredients promote hair health, adding volume and texture while keeping your scalp happy.
Pros:
- Strong enough for most hair types
- Natural, matte finish
- Contains nourishing ingredients
Cons:
- Not ideal if you need an extra-strong hold
Bottom line:
Baxter of California’s Clay Effect Style Spray is perfect for men who want a natural look with light to moderate hold. It’s formulated with quality ingredients, and it offers great texture without being too heavy on the hair.
6. Brickell Men’s Texturizing Sea Salt Spray for Men
Brickell continues to impress with its Texturizing Sea Salt Spray, a standout addition to their lineup of men’s grooming products. After using it, I found that this spray provides incredible hair texture and volume without leaving you with an artificial look. It’s quick and easy to apply, and the effect is very versatile. Whether you’re going for a windswept beach look or just some casual, messy bedhead, this spray gets the job done.
One of the things I appreciate about Brickell’s products is their commitment to natural ingredients. You won’t find any synthetic fragrances, sulfates, parabens, or alcohol here. Instead, it’s packed with natural sea salt, glycerin, argon oil, green tea extract, and honeysuckle. This gives the spray a clean, refreshing feel without any harmful chemicals.
What I found particularly impressive is that this spray does more than just add texture. It contains hydrolyzed proteins that help your hair retain moisture, leaving it softer and more elastic. The sea salt absorbs excess oil, giving your hair added texture and volume, while vitamin E reduces oxidative stress, promoting healthier hair growth.
Even better, this spray is completely scent-neutral, which is exactly what you want in a texturizing spray. No need to worry about clashing scents with your cologne or other grooming products.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use, quick-acting texture
- Promotes follicle health while adding volume
- Scentless, so it won’t interfere with other scents
Cons:
- Some users found the bottle shape inconvenient
Bottom line:
Brickell’s Sea Salt Spray offers natural texture with a clean, scentless formula. It’s perfect for those looking for a rugged, windswept look while keeping their hair healthy.
7. Sebastian Shaper Hairspray
If you’re looking for a hairspray with a strong yet flexible hold, Sebastian Shaper Hairspray is an excellent option. I’ve found this product to be particularly ideal for active men who need their style to hold up through the day while still allowing for some natural movement.
One of the reasons I like this spray is its versatility. It’s lightweight and suitable for all hair types and styles, so whether you have thick, fine, or wavy hair, this spray can work for you. It doesn’t leave your hair feeling sticky or crunchy, and it’s easy to comb through, even after application.
The Sebastian Shaper also adds a subtle, natural shine that doesn’t look greasy or overdone. It holds up well even in challenging conditions, keeping your style in place while allowing for a natural bounce and movement.
Pros:
- Provides strong hold without stiffness
- Retains natural movement and bounce
- Great for active men
Cons:
- The scent may be a bit strong for some
Bottom line:
Sebastian Shaper Hairspray is a great all-around product with a strong hold that keeps your hair looking natural. It’s particularly useful for those who want control without sacrificing flexibility.
How to Use Hairspray for Men to Keep You Looking Your Best
Don’t be intimidated by hairspray—it’s a fantastic tool for achieving the style you want. If you’re new to using it, or just want to ensure you’re getting the best results, here are a few tips for applying hairspray the right way:
1. Make Sure Your Hairspray Matches the Finish You Want
Before you apply any hairspray, know what kind of finish you’re going for—whether it’s added volume, a high shine, or a more natural matte look. Always read the label carefully to determine the hold and finish.
2. Begin With Dry Hair
For the best results, apply hairspray to dry hair. Using it on wet hair can lead to a crunchy, helmet-like effect, which isn’t what most of us are going for. If you want a wet look, you can dampen your hair slightly with water before applying the spray.
3. Apply in a Circular Motion
Shake the can for a few seconds to mix the ingredients, then hold it 8 to 15 inches away from your hair and apply a moderate amount. Use a circular motion to avoid applying too much product in one spot.
4. Add Volume
If your goal is to add volume, tilt your head downward and spray at the roots. This will give your hair extra lift and make it appear fuller.
5. Use It to Add Texture
For a messier look, apply a bit of spray to your hands and rub it into your hair from the roots up. This method works great if you’re going for a more textured, undone style.
6. Target Only the Areas That Need It
There’s no need to spray your entire head if you only want to style certain sections. Focus on the areas that need hold and leave the rest natural.
7. Pair It With Other Products
One of the best things about hairspray is that it can be used alongside other styling products like gel, pomade, or clay. Apply your styling product first, then lock in the style with a light mist of hairspray.
How Hairspray Compares to Other Styling Products
Today’s modern man has more hairstyling options than ever before. Hairspray is just one tool in the arsenal, but it’s a versatile and effective one. Let’s take a look at how it stacks up against other popular styling products to help you understand when to reach for the spray versus wax, gel, pomade, or clay.
Hairspray
Hairspray’s main advantage is its ability to provide hold without weighing hair down, making it a great finishing product. You can achieve a variety of styles with it, from sleek to voluminous, depending on your hair type and the hold you choose—whether flexible, medium, or maximum.
What sets hairspray apart from other products is how well it locks in styles that need volume and movement. I find it especially useful as a final touch after using other styling products, sealing the look and ensuring it holds throughout the day. You can spray it on the surface for a light hold or spray it deep into the roots for more lift and volume.
However, like all products, it’s not without its flaws. Older formulas used to contain harmful chemicals, but modern versions are generally safer, though it’s still important to check for ingredients that might irritate sensitive skin or cause dryness. Hairspray can sometimes dry out hair, so it’s best used sparingly if you have fine or dry hair.
Hair Gel
Gel is one of the most commonly used styling products among men, and it’s known for providing a firm hold with a high-shine finish. It’s a go-to for those looking to create sleek, structured looks. While it’s effective, it can sometimes dry out the hair and scalp because the chemicals in many gels strip away natural moisture. Another drawback is that gel can make hair frizzy after prolonged use, especially in humid conditions.
For those who want a super strong hold and don’t mind the stiffness that comes with it, gel might be the product of choice. But if you prefer more natural movement and flexibility, hairspray may be a better option.
Hair Wax
Wax is ideal if you’re going for a look with some texture and structure, but without the heavy, crunchy feel of gel. It offers medium hold, allowing for some restyling during the day. The finish is typically a bit glossier than matte but less shiny than gel, which I find perfect for casual, tousled hairstyles.
Wax is less drying than gel but can still make hair feel weighed down if overapplied. If you want more movement and a softer finish, you might find hairspray easier to manage.
Pomade
If you’re after a slick, polished look—think pompadours and quiffs—then pomade is your product. It’s creamier than wax and provides medium to firm hold without the stiffness of gel. Pomades come in both oil-based and water-based formulas, with oil-based pomades offering a firmer hold, though they can clog pores and be harder to wash out. Water-based pomades, on the other hand, are easier to rinse out and allow for more natural movement.
If you’re using pomade but find it doesn’t hold enough throughout the day, a light mist of hairspray over your finished style can provide extra hold and shine without compromising the look.
Clay
Clay is relatively new to the styling scene but quickly gaining popularity. It provides a firm hold while nourishing the scalp with essential minerals and nutrients. What I love about clay is its ability to add thickness to hair, which is great for those who need extra volume without the heavy, greasy feel of some products.
Clay also absorbs quickly into the hair, making it a lightweight option for styles that need volume without looking overly styled. If you need a little more lift, a few sprays of hairspray can complement clay by adding hold without taking away the volume.
Cream
Hair creams are great for guys with thick, coarse, or curly hair. They provide flexibility and a very light hold, and most contain moisturizing ingredients to help reduce frizz. I’ve found creams work well if you’re looking for a more natural, soft look without the rigidity of wax or gel.
If you like using cream for its moisturizing benefits but want more hold, adding a layer of hairspray can keep things in place while still allowing movement.
Paste
Hair paste offers medium hold and medium shine, and it’s one of the most versatile products out there. It works for most hair types and is easy to apply and restyle throughout the day. Paste also gives hair texture and volume, especially when used before blow-drying.
If you’ve styled your hair with paste but need it to last longer or hold more firmly, finishing with hairspray can lock in the look while maintaining flexibility.
How We Chose the Best Hairsprays for Men
The good news is that there’s no shortage of great hairspray options for men. Our goal was to provide a list that covers different hair types, hold levels, and budgets. We looked for products that minimize harmful chemicals while maximizing performance, and we based our choices on personal experience as well as user reviews. Whether you’re after volume, flexibility, or all-day hold, we’ve found a spray to suit your needs.
Conclusion
So, do you use hairspray as part of your styling routine? If so, what’s your go-to product? Have you tried any of the sprays on our list? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences, especially if you’ve found a product that works particularly well for you. Let’s keep the conversation going!
