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Somewhere in the realm between hairspray and dry shampoo lives a magical hair product called texture spray. Like a light-hold hairspray, it offers a bit of structure; like dry shampoo, it helps absorb some excess oil and give hair a refreshed look. But it also adds a little extra...something. Zhush, if you will.
The Best Texture Sprays
It adds that lived-in, done-but-undone vibe so many of us are trying to achieve, but struggle to do without the help of a professional. In short: It's an absolute essential for every hair type, and yes, texture. For help finding your best texture spray, keep scrolling, and read on for tips from hair expert Michelle Hong, founder, and creative director of NYC The Team.
Pros
- Suitable for all hair types
- Matte finish
Cons
Hong says this fine mist "adds instant texture and volume," and "delivers a flexible hold."
What the Reviewers Are Saying:
"Smells amazing! Honestly, I wish the brand would make lotion or perfume, it's a beautiful scent. And the texture holds, but not too much that it's like hairspray. 12 outta 10." —MG23
Size | 9.5 fl oz. |
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Hair Types | All hair types |
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Best for Waves
Shu Uemura Wata Wave Dry Texturizing Hair Spray
Pros
- Also absorbs excess oil
Cons
Another of Hong's picks this spray has "long lasting, buildable hold for all hair types with a matte finish," and "Absorbs natural oils to give you the ultimate tousled hair," says the stylist.
What the Reviewers Are Saying:
"Great for every day use to switch up my hair routine. This gave me nice volume and texture, while still staying lightweight. The scent is pleasant as well, which is always a nice plus for hair products." —jlh35
Size | 7.1 fl oz |
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Hair Types | Straight, Wavy, Curly, and Coily |
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Cult Classic
Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray
Pros
- Color-safe and offers UV protection
Cons
Largely considered the gold standard in texture spray, this one from Oribe is a salon and at-home favorite for lending hair that laid-back, tousled vibe.
What the Reviewers Are Saying:
"The only texture spray i’ve tried that gives me exactly what i need. Hold/volume/texture/that slightly grungy dirty look of lived in hair without the stiffness/dryness/stickiness that other sprays have. Just don’t use too much, and if you brush your hair out afterwards it looks even more natural and effortless." —oliviamartinn
Size | 8.5 oz/ 300 mL |
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Hair Types | Straight, Wavy, Curly, and Coily |
Pros
- Feels brushable and lightweight in hair
Cons
We trust Andrew Fitzsimons—the hairstylist behind Jennifer Lopez and the Kardashians' hair—to know just what it takes for that perfect, sexy textured look. Plus, it smells incredible.
What the Reviewers Are Saying:
"This is hands down THE best texture spray I have ever used. I have thick, wavy hair and this whole line has done wonders for my hair. I will definitely continue to buy. Please keep this in production!" —Taylor L
Size | 6.8 oz |
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Hair Types | All hair types |
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Best for Thin Hair
VERB Volume Dry Texture Spray
Pros
- Has a light scent
- Doesn't weigh hair down
Cons
Verb's lightweight spray has just the right amount of grit to add a bit of hold, but also has pro-vitamin B5 to add volume.
What the Reviewers Are Saying:
"My hair is fine and flat as a board. This is a game changer and smells delicious!" —Stacey
Size | 5 fl oz |
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Hair Types | All hair types |
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Best for Definition
Virtue Create Hair Texturizing Spray
Pros
- Color-safe and adds UV protection
Cons
The mist feels weightless as you spritz it in your hair, but it still adds plenty of definition thanks to hydrolyzed wheat protein, vitamin B5, and keratin.
What the Reviewers Are Saying:
"SOOOO worth the price!! Gives my hair so much volume and adds to every style I do. Can’t see myself doing my hair without now." —megev
Size | 5 oz/ 140 g |
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Hair Types | Straight, Wavy, Curly, and Coily |
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For the price, it's hard to beat this volumizing formula to awaken a day-old (or even hours-old) hairstyle.
What the Reviewers Are Saying:
"I started using this texture spray in addition to my usual dry shampoo but I really could use this spray by itself. I feel it works a little better than the dry shampoo when styling." —Mama B
Size | 5 fl oz. |
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Hair Type | All Hair Types |
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Best Color-Safe Texture Spray
COLOR WOW Style on Steroids Color-Safe Texture Spray
Pros
- Provides hold without stickiness
Cons
This texture spray takes "color-safe" to the next level: It's made with moisturizers and heat protectant that won’t soften or darken your hair's vibrancy.
What the Reviewers Are Saying:
"Holy wow! This gave me the most amazing volume and held my curls for days. I’m so impressed as a professional stylist!" —dolphingirl11
Size | 7 oz/ 200 mL |
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Hair Types | Straight, Wavy, Curly, and Coily |
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Pros
- Great for waves and curls
Cons
Sea salt sprays are one of the quickest ways to get those natural, beachy waves, and this one made with Australian Himalayan sea salt does so without any added crunch.
What the Reviewers Are Saying:
"I have super straight and fine hair and recently got the Dyson Airwrap. Using this on my damp hair makes my curls hold so well!" —kyleelac
Size | 6.76 oz/ 200 mL |
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Hair Types | Wavy, Curly, and Coily |
Pros
- Helps thicken hair
Cons
This spray offers light to medium hold, without sacrificing the airiness and weightlessness you want in a texture spray.
What the Reviewers Are Saying:
"This is the best dry texture spray out there. It's light and hold curl really well. I have straight long blond hair and this really helps to keep some body in it." —Rachel
Size | 8.2 oz |
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Hair Types | For Fine to Medium, Straight to Wavy Hair |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Does Texture Spray Actually Do?
"Texturizing sprays add volume, lift, and definition to the hair," explains Hong. "It gives grip to the hair to hold movement and texture giving it a nice beachy and tousled look."
The stylist adds that all hair types and textures can benefit from a texture spray: "From fine to thick hair, texture sprays will add lift and movement." They can also simulate both dry shampoo and hairspray, depending on the formula. "It also absorbs some oils which makes the hair matted down. Texture sprays will boost any type of styling and is also great for creating updos and messy buns," she says.
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How Do You Use Texture Spray?
"Spray it about six inches away starting at the roots," says Hong. "Then, throughout the hair, shake and tousle into place." When in doubt, says the stylist, "Everyone can benefit from a little texture spray."
Lindy Segal
Lindy Segal is a beauty writer and editor. In addition to regularly contributing to BAZAAR.COM, she also writes for Glamour, People, WhoWhatWear, and Fashionista, among other publications. She lives in New York City with her Chihuahua mix, Barney.