As the humidity rises in many areas of the country – including here in NaturallyCurly’s home in Austin, TX – I usually reach for my trusty can of hairspray to set my curls and ward off the frizz that can set in as the day progresses.
But like many curlies, sometimes I want an alternative to hairspray. Many curlies don’t like the feel or the smell of hairspray. Don’t despair! When you are looking for non-hairspray options that give you the hold of hairspray, there are several good options. Here are some of my favorites.
1. Turn to Texturizing Spray
Image Source: @heavenmarleyy
A texturizer spray won’t give you the same hold as a high-hold hairspray, but if you are looking for a lighter hold or just a way to set your style while adding some extra texture, this is the best answer without hairspray. This lightweight choice will leave hair less weighed down than your typical hairspray while still giving you a little control. Some good ones to try are UNITE Hair TEXTURIZA Spray, Cake Beauty Big Wig Dry Texturizing Spray, and Kristin Ess Hair Dry Finish Working Texture Hair Spray.
2. Try Dry Shampoo
Another one of the best alternatives to hairspray is dry shampoo. This works because it removes excess oils, which may keep hair closer to the scalp at the roots. Rootes are given an instant boost by eliminating the extra oil, similar to applying hairspray. With this method, just be careful not to overdo it since it can lead to dryness if used daily. And make sure you find one that works with your hair color. Some brands can leave a light/white cast on dark hair. Some to try include MONDAY HAIRCARE Dry Shampoo, Briogeo Scalp Revival Dry Shampoo Powder, and Moroccanoil Dry Shampoo Dark Tones.
3. Use a Sugar Spray
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Another way to get an impressive hold without the hassle or crunch of hairspray is probably already in your pantry. Sugar cane extract has curl enhancing capabilities, as well as hold. When used directly on the scalp, it can also unclog pores and act as a clarifying treatment to exfoliate and promote hair growth. Sugar is known to give some hold without making hair too hard. It is also a really easy DIY approach that only requires two ingredients.
4. Use a little Shea Butter
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Shea butter may be one of the most beloved ingredients for curly girls around the world. However, one attribute that may not get as much attention is its ability to provide a decent amount of hold for your curls when used as a pomade to avoid hairspray.
Simply rub some pure shea butter between your hands before applying it to your hair. This will give some hold while also offering hydration for thirsty strands. Some great shea butter options exist: REAL African Shea Butter Pure Raw, RA COSMETICS Whipped Shea Butter Mango, and Blue Magic Shea Butter.
5. Pomade in heaven
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Many people are confused about hair pomade, one of those styling products. Contrary to popular belief, it’s available in different holds, finishes, and textures. Pomades of the past were usually beeswax or petroleum-based for heavy styling. Although newer editions may contain traces of both wax and petroleum, other additives create a smoother, lighter finish.
To set your curls, rub a little pomade between your palms, pull your hair back like you’re making a ponytail or bun, and twist it. When you let it go, your curls should be more defined, and the pomade will add hold to keep them looking good throughout the day.
If your hair does start to look frizzy, just redo the process. Some good pomades to try include Maui Moisture Lightweight Curls + Flaxseed Edge Control, Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey Shine Pomade, and Cantu for Men Cream Pomade Flex Hold.
