When you’re rocking the most perfect hairstyle—whether it’s something you painstakingly created yourself or one that you paid a lot of money for at the salon—you want to make sure it actually holds up. One way to beat gravity at its own game? Using a setting spray.
The right setting spray can give you a strong hold that’s long-lasting and can tame frizz and flyaways. And while some sprays used to leave you with stiff and “crunchy” hair, now there are really good formulations that allow for a little bit more movement and flexibility. Take a look at some options below.
Made for curly hair, Ouidad’s setting and holding spray locks in styles for the whole day but won’t leave that crunchy feeling. It defines and lifts curls while warding off any frizz.
You don’t have to worry about this spray making your hairstyle feel like it weighs a ton—it’s lightweight with medium or high hold (it can be adjusted by the twist nozzle). The formula acts as a heat protectant, too.
For an extra firm hold, try this hair spray that will “freeze” your hairstyle and protect your hair from humidity and frizz for up to 24 hours. It also volumizes and texturizes the hair.
Humidity doesn’t stand a chance with this hair spray. It sets your hair in place for 48 hours.
If you’re sticking to “clean” beauty options, this one from Innersense is a great spray that provides a flexible hold, adds shine, and sets your style. It has nourishing ingredients like organic honey, rooibos tea, and aloe and rice proteins.
Flat hair types are going to love the volume this spray delivers. The medium-hold product also won’t leave your hairstyle “hard” and untouchable.
This setting mist not only adds shine and long-lasting hold, but it also protects against heat for up to 450 degrees. Spray before styling and you’ll be good to go.
Texturizing wax in a spray? How genius. This finishing product will give you that piece-y effortless look and keeps it that way for a long time.
Apply this spray gel on your curls for flexible hold and shine. It can be used with hot irons, rollers, or a round brush and blow dryer—it acts as a heat protectant, too.
Shu Uemura’s hair spray is microfine so it won’t weigh your hair down. It works on all hair types to hold, shape, and protect against frizz and heat.
Kristin Ess’s finishing spray sets your style but leaves it brushable and flexible. It works well on a bunch of styles, from sleek looks to curly hairdos. Plus, it has “zip-up” technology to smooth split ends.
You’re supposed to use this spray before you blow-dry, curl, or flat-iron your hair so it protects heat and prolongs the life of your hairstyle.
This cult-favorite styling oil strengthens the hair and leaves it shiny and hydrated. It protects against heat, too.
Dried-out curls can get some TLC from this moisturizing formula that softens and tames frizz.
Styling your hair can be difficult when it’s dry and damaged. This leave-in product contains six lightweight oils which will soften, de-frizz, detangle, and protect the hair against breakage and UV damage.
Apply this finishing cream to your ends after a blowout to smooth any dryness.
Made for 3B, 3C, 4A, 4B, and 4C curls, Aveda’s finishing gloss makes your hair easier to comb and delivers unbelievable.
Infused with rosemary leaf extract, kahai oil, and shea butter, this cream enhances curls, moisturizes hair, and seals split ends.
Made for straight or curly hair types, this finishing cream leaves your hair silky, shiny, and protected against heat. Next: 4 Reasons You’ll Probably Want to Start Washing Your Hair With Rice Water
