If you thought the only thing you had to worry about when choosing hairspray was the size of the can or the price tag, think again! There are different holds of hairspray and the final result for your look and how it holds up depends on what option you choose. To ensure you’re getting the best from this great hair styling product, use our guide to help you choose the right hold for you!

Hairspray Holds

The basic hairspray varieties available are light hold, medium hold and strong hold. As I’m sure you’ve guessed, strong hold gives the strongest hold, while light hold gives the weakest. They are all made up of the same ingredients; the difference in strengths relies on the size of droplets released from the can - the bigger the droplets, the firmer the hold.

Light Hold

  • Model with long straight hairTemporarily holds your hairstyle in place for a few hours.
  • Keeps curls in shape and combats frizz without weighing locks down.
  • Gives a non-stiff finish.
  • Tames fly-away strands.
  • Provides a flexible hold, which is great for curls and waves.
  • Can be brushed out of your locks.
  • Adds shine.

This hold is for you if… the majority of your hairstyling looks consists of light, casual styles and simple techniques such as braids.

Medium Hold

  • Model with short brown hairGives you more control than a light hold.
  • Makes your hair easier to manage.
  • Injects a bit of shine into your locks.
  • Keeps frizz and fly-aways at bay.
  • Helps hold the shape and style of your hair all day.
  • A spritz into your root area will add volume to your locks.

This hold is for you if… the majority of your hairstyling looks require a little effort, such as half up half up down hairstyles, taming soft natural curls and waves, ponytails and straight looks.

Strong Hold

  • Model with curly upstyleHelps you get a handle on hard to manage hair.
  • Plumps up thin and fine hair types.
  • Helps resist humidity.
  • Adds volume and keeps it.
  • Keeps body-filled styles in place.
  • Can add strength to your strands so they keep your look for longer.
  • Also adds shine and tames hair frizz and fly-aways.

This hold is for you if… the majority of your hairstyling looks require extensive hold (as in all day and night), if you use heat stylers to create straight, curly or wavy hairdos, elaborate evening looks or wedding hairstyles.