:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TheresaHolland_Headshot_2020-8c13b32507674083ade8019565ea9e96.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/best-drugstore-hairsprays-for-all-hair-types-663514241b9d4873bb39fb5d49bb56ae.jpg)
Byrdie / Kevin Liang
Hairspray is like foundation in that it can be essential for nailing certain looks, and yet, the best products make it look like you're not wearing anything at all. Contrary to hairspray from decades ago which felt heavy, sticky, and crunchy, today's formulas are a lot better at creating volume and hold without the uncomfortable finish. And luckily, tons of fantastic options are affordable and accessible right at the drugstore.
Whether you want your updo to stay in place, your flyaways to remain in check, or your soft waves to last all day, there's a drugstore hairspray out there that'll get the job done without making your hair look (or feel) overly stiff, flaky, or crunchy. So, we researched and tested tons of different options and evaluated them based on how long they hold a style, how they make the hair feel, and how well their mists disperse into the hair.
Read on to see the best drugstore hairsprays for preserving your 'do.
Best Overall
L'Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/loral-paris-elnett-satin-extra-strong-hold-hairspray-2350a47413a941d2a6b61af53e45694f.jpg)
Amazon
Clean finish
Flake-free
Brushable
Strong fragrance
If there were a queen of drugstore hairsprays, it would be Elnett Satin. Celebrated by pro stylists and lifelong beauty enthusiasts alike, the superfine, never-sticky aerosol mist is considered the gold standard of affordable formulas. It leaves your strands shiny and flake-free, and you can brush or tease your hair after it dries. One thing to beware of is the strong fragrance—but it does dissipate a bit after it sets so it's not a total dealbreaker for us.
Price at time of publish: $13
Size: 11.0 oz. | Scent: None | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Best For: All hair types
What Our Experts Say
"It's one of the best and often used for sets, weddings, etc.," says hairstylist Sky Kim of Serge Normant at John Frieda in New York City. "This will literally hold your hair in place all day, all night."
Best Budget
Rave 4X Mega Unscented Hairspray
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/rave-4x-mega-shine-enhancing-unscented-hair-spray-11-oz-a63cb7eaac6b41fe8110856ed39972d2.jpg)
Walmart
Handles up to 90-percent relative humidity
All-weather protection
Strong but manageable hold
Spray nozzle dispenses too quickly
Thanks to Rave 4X Mega, you don't have to spend more than a couple of bucks to get that invisible, all-day hold you're after. It kind of looks like a can of shaving cream, but don't let that throw you off. This unscented aerosol hairspray works to lock in your style, eliminate frizz, and resist humidity without feeling stiff or sticky.
Price at time of publish: $4
Size: 11.0 oz. | Scent: None | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Best For: All hair types
Best for Dry and Chemically Treated Hair
OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Multi-Benefit Hairspray
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/ogx-revitalize---argan-shine-extra-strength-multi-benefit-heat-protection-hairspray-with-argan-oil--silk-proteins-tame-frizz--non-greasy-shine-morocco-8-ounce-e6e8678139504254857d960aa635568c.jpg)
Amazon
Safe for color-treated hair
Combats humidity
Sulfate-free
Can make hair feel a bit stiff
This is a great option for people with dry or chemically treated hair because it's formulated with nourishing argan oil to provide moisture and add shine. In works to keep your style in place with a gentle hold, and perhaps the best part is that it has a built-in heat protectant. Your hair will be manageable, better-looking, and silky-soft to the touch.
Price at time of publish: $9
Size: 9.44 oz. | Scent: Fresh | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Best For: All hair types, especially frizzy
Best for Curly Hair
Rizos Curls Volumizing Hair Spray
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/RizosCurls-5c156ea9d0cb436fac40118398a785a2.jpg)
Target
Non-aerosol
Provides medium-hold
Contains nourishing ingredients
Can feel sticky
Those with curly hair know that hairspray can make your curls extra dry, crunchy, and stiff. But if you have curly hair and you want a product to help you keep your style in place, this is a great option for you. It's an alcohol-free formula that works to keep curls in place, and we love that it contains argan oil and rosemary to nourish and support hair strength.
Price at time of publish: $20
Size: 6.8 oz. | Scent: Coconut, Lime, Vanilla | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Best For: Curly hair
Best for Thick Hair
Nexxus Comb Thru Volume Finishing Mist
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/nexxus-comb-thru-finishing-spray-hair-spray-for-volume-hair-mist-hair-shine-spray-10-oz-0f8559e02b5043eeb5ce8931d3f293c4.jpg)
Amazon
Refreshing fragrance
Salon-quality
Not greasy
Can feel heavy if over-applied
"For a little flexibility on thick hair, I would use the Nexxus Comb Thru Finishing Mist," says Kim. This refreshing weightless hairspray leaves strands glossy and smooth while encouraging movement and buoyancy. Your hair will be brushable, touchable, and oh-so-soft.
Price at time of publish: $18
Size: 10.0 oz. | Scent: Rose, Jasmine | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Best For: All hair types
Best for Fine Hair
SexyHair Big Spray & Play Volumizing Hairspray
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/sexyhair-big-spray--play-volumizing-hairspray--hold-and-shine--up-to-72-hour-humidity-resistance--all-hair-types-047720db996541688d15c0a3ed08b573.jpg)
Amazon
Holds up to 72 hours
Lightweight, airy formula
Provides much volume
Can be a bit flaky
Spray & Play can be a godsend for fine-haired folks who find that most hairspray formulas weigh their hair down. The lightweight, airy formula reduces frizz and keeps flyaways in check while delivering some serious volumizing action. "It gives you a little lift and holds your look together," says Kim.
Price at time of publish: $9
Size: 10.0 oz. | Scent: None | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No | Best For: Fine, medium, and coarse hair types
Best for Frizz
John Frieda Frizz Ease Moisture Barrier Firm Hold Hairspray
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/john-frieda-anti-frizz-frizz-ease-firm-hold-hairspray-anti-frizz-hair-straightener-heat-protectant-spray-for-dry-damaged-hair-12-ounce-01c9f8947fdd4ca4a5f7462d050d8d66.jpg)
Amazon
Frizz-free
Quick drying
Easy to use
Leaves hair feeling sticky
If you're looking for something that keeps frizz in check, look no further than John Frieda. Frizz Ease seals out moisture and prevents hair from falling flat in wet or humid conditions. You can count on a sleek, shiny, protected finish, rain or shine.
Price at time of publish: $8
Size: 12.0 oz. | Scent: Perfume | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No | Best For: All hair types, especially dry and/or damaged
Best Volumizing
Not Your Mother's She's A Tease Volumizing Hairspray
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/NotYourMothersHairspray-bdf273c5920940f0bd0565e02d5afdae.jpg)
Ulta
Very lightweight
Non-greasy
Creates soft finish
Can feel a bit sticky
Hairsprays that are excellent at locking strands into place are often not the best for volumizing because they're too heavy and stiff. We love this one for adding volume to the hair because it does work to create bounce and lift the roots a bit, but it's also effective for providing a medium hold. It's also fitting for all hair types and great for those who like to tease their crown to achieve volume.
Price at time of publish: $7
Size: 8 oz. | Scent: Fruity | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: No | Best For: All hair types
Best Strong-Hold
TRESemmé TRES Two Spray Extra Hold
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/TRESemme-TRES-Two-Spray-Extra-Hold-d0b3195bbc47429289baa62394c6cb0c.jpg)
Amazon
Easy to use
Smells good
Non-greasy
New formula is a bit weaker
TRES Two Spray Extra Hold isn't messing around. This humidity-resistant, maximum-control product sets both elaborate up-dos and everyday hairstyles alike securely in place, providing a super-strong hold for hours on end. We love that it's non-greasy and great for all hair types (even fine hair), but be sure to start by applying a light layer and slowly building up for more hold.
Price at time of publish: $20
Size: 11.0 oz. | Scent: None | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Best For: All hair types
Best Long-Wear
Kenra Professional Volume Spray 25
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/kenra-professional-volume-spray-25-c77f6e5380a84a4987eec7f40225e87c.jpg)
Walmart
Wind resistant up to 25 mph
120-hour hold
Quick drying
Sprays out aggressively
This volumizing hairspray has impressive staying power. It claims to keep your styled hair in place for up to 120 hours—that's five whole days! Not only that, but the quick-drying, flake-free, and non-sticky formula resists humidity and 25 miles-per-hour winds. Beware that the mister is pretty intense, so try to be gentle as you apply it.
Price at time of publish: $31
Size: 16.0 oz. | Scent: Fresh | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Best For: All hair types
Best Against Humidity
Garnier Fructis Style Extreme Control Anti-Humidity Hairspray
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/extreme-control-anti-humidity-hairspray825oz-3958c501cb8d425dbbdab4d2be43d0c0.jpg)
Walgreens
Infused with bamboo extract
Sparkling fragrance
Effectively holds
Messy application
You'll be glad to have Garnier's Extreme Control Hairspray on hand when you're battling the effects of humid weather. Infused with bamboo extract, this ultra-strong yet flexible spray provides a firm hold and promises humidity protection for a full 24 hours.
Price at time of publish: $4
Size: 8.25 oz. | Scent: Fruity | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Best For: All hair types
Best Lightweight
Dove Style+Care Flexible Hold Hairspray
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/style-care-hairspray-flexible-hold70oz-6460323e49c04a88ad6ab474f1ab1f3e.jpg)
Walgreens
Clean smell
Anti-frizz
Adds radiance
Can feel a bit gummy
Kim recommends Dove Style+Care for those looking for a softer finish. It's light and touchable, smells amazing, and is "not too wet, so you can move it without feeling gunky," she tells Byrdie. It's a great option for people with thin and fine hair.
Price at time of publish: $15
Size: 7.0 oz. | Scent: Fresh | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: No | Best For: All hair types
Best Non-Aerosol
Suave Max Hold Non-Aerosol Hairspray
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/unscented-non-aerosol-hairspray-max-hold-5f75f8c19b2346a4be922685e232b74c.jpg)
Walgreens
Contains coconut oil and keratin
Suitable for all hair types
Effectively holds
Not for sensitive skin
If you're partial to non-aerosol products, you can't go wrong with Suave Max Hold Hairspray. It works to tame frizz, lock your look in place, and boost volume. The formula is enriched with vitamins and proteins, leaving a natural-looking finish without sacrificing any hold.
Price at time of publish: $4
Size: 11.0 oz. | Scent: None | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Best For: All hair types
Best Clean
Andalou Naturals Sunflower & Citrus Hair Spray
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/andalou-naturals-brilliant-shine-hair-spray-sunflower--citrus-82-fl-oz-c354e8d065e241a7905fe97b2f6b394f.jpg)
Amazon
Flexible hold
Color safe
Full of natural ingredients
Watery consistency
We recommend Andalou Naturals for those who prefer earth-sourced formulas. Made with aloe vera, sunflower seed extract, fruit stem cells, and chamomile, this medium-hold, anti-frizz hairspray leaves hair flexible with a nice shine. It's also another great choice for those who want to avoid aerosol products.
Price at time of publish: $10
Size: 8.2 oz. | Scent: Sunflower, Citrus | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Best For: All hair types
Final Verdict
L'Oreal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray is hands down, the best drugstore hairspray on the market. This beloved product delivers a superfine, non-sticky mist to lock in your look and leaves a brilliantly shiny, brushable finish in its wake. However, if you're looking for something to tackle frizz and stand up to humidity, your best bet is John Frieda Frizz Ease Firm Hold Hairspray.
What to Look For In a Hairspray
Hold
One of the main keywords you'll see on the side of a hairspray bottle is "hold." This refers to the level of control you'll get from the product. If you need something that'll keep your updo in place or ensure your just-curled doesn't fall flat, you'll want to get an extra-hold hairspray. That said, if you're simply looking to tame flyaways and keep frizz in check, a flexible-hold formula will work.
Humidity Protection
Many drugstore hairsprays are also formulated to provide humidity protection. This means they lock styles in place and prevent hair from falling flat while safeguarding it from the frizzing, style-reversing effects of moisture in the air. If you live in a humid climate or you're traveling to a tropical destination, we recommend getting your hands on the Garnier Fructis Style Full Control Anti-Humidity Ultra Strong Hold Hairspray.
Scent
Like all hair products, there are scented and unscented hairsprays. Many scented options smell quite lovely and aren't overpowering—especially if you're only using a little bit. But if you're sensitive to fragrances or need to use a lot of hairspray to keep an updo in place, you might want to consider an unscented formula.
Hair Type
The best hairsprays for natural and curly hair are formulated to combat humidity and smooth frizz without impeding the inherent bounce or texture of your locks. Those with thicker manes should look for something that offers flexible hold and a brushable finish. If you have fine hair, we recommend a volumizing hairspray, as the formula will make it look thicker and fuller.
Why Trust Byrdie
This buyer's guide was written by Theresa Holland, an experienced commerce writer specializing in beauty. She's been contributing to Byrdie since 2020, covering makeup, skincare, and haircare. To keep her fine strands smooth and frizz-free, she often reaches for John Frieda Frizz Ease or Aussie Headstrong.
According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find any drugstore hairsprays from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/byrdie-scalp-acne-shampoo-tout-0ff00c8a3e8a44ee9aa4ef814574bb3b.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/BYRDIE-10-leave-in-conditioner-for-curly-hair-primary-c59dc45b9cf44bdaab85f228dd1b2d3d.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/the-best-shampoos-for-damaged-hair-byrdie-tout-678c6b00475c4bd0b104ef6781cc30e1.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/drugstore-setting-sprays-in-2023-9bfbbd07dd3543d3a6b55491248a24ce.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/BYRDIE-recirc-best-serums-for-hair-cc775c0ec8874aa29c788f09ba752bb0.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/best-gels-for-natural-hair-5080812-recirc-55da17dc4447405d8bff8213b326885c.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/BYRDIE-12-best-clarifying-shampoos-recirc-d64cd59280b04ac19ec8f633ee7ce8ff.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/BYRDIE-12-best-products-for-fine-flat-hair-4159509primary-e0bd45c530604935946f10f2f78c50e8.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/BYRDIE-12-best-shampoos-for-thinning-hair-for-men-5081708-primary-004146c3f2ea441dba9865402aa655a5.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/bumble-and-bumble-invisible-oil-65f86f109117405fb2ccfdb6c3df8a40.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/byr-primary-eyebrow-hold-gels-tstaples-305-652d8a5b97744f86801431e60ed0ea58.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Olaplex-Shampoo-Hair-System-1-4cc4d0314a3d4a358ba05ff4b8b24dbf.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/BYRDIE-primary-best-curl-creams-4587047-afb0856d263d4bb186a496a8c0eb69d4.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/BYRDIE-best-drugstore-shampoo-for-fine-hair-4693685-recirc-de26a438fe9d4d46841b9eb886d4feb0.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/BYRDIE-primary-best-hairsprays-4582749-148cbb41d1a24627824649fb9514ebc0.jpg)