I Tried Every Volumising Spray I Could Find—These 15 Are the Best (2024)

last updated 28 November 2024

Eleanor Vousden

Pros: Volumises, heat protection, adds lift to the roots, feels weightless in hair

Cons: None

How to use: Spray onto damp hair and on roots for lift before blowdrying, or on dry hair for a boost

Our verdict: If there’s one thing you should know about me it’s this; I hate using products in my hair. Outside of a wash-out masque or heat protectant spray, I don’t tend to use anything else on my strands. I even avoid hairspray! So, when I was asked to test a volumiser, I was sceptical and a little bit concerned. Washing and drying my hair takes an age as I have so much of the stuff, so I really didn’t want to have to head back into the shower to wash out anything too sticky. Turns out, I needn't have worried. I’ve seen rave review after rave review on Color Wow products on TikTok; so much so they seemed too good to be true. However, this product has sold me on the brand.

I used it on damp hair, targeting my upper roots, and while it felt tacky at first (especially the reside I had to wash from my ear after a ill-aimed spritz), the formula seemed to evaporate whilst I dried it. In its place was volume that, if I’m being honest, I didn’t expect to see. My crown had height to it that I usually struggle to achieve, and it made the rest of my hair cascade beautifully below it. Feeling my roots, there’s absolutely no residue whatsoever and, two days later, it’s not greasy nor clumped together. While I’m yet to test it on dry hair, this is definitely the product I’ll reach for when I know I want some extra oomph. Something tells me it’s going to get addictive.

Pros: Volumises, texturises, can be used as a dry shampoo, luxe formula and packaging

Cons: Expensive, product feels noticeable in hair

How to use: Spray onto dry hair as a hair texturiser, volumiser and even a dry shampoo alternative

Our verdict: Part volumiser, part texturiser and part dry shampoo, this is a truly versatile hair spray that adds plenty of volume, undone texture and makes your hair look effortlessly styled, even if you've just run your fingers through it. The only downside is that it does feel noticeable in the hair—but if this doesn't usually both you, then it won't be a deal-breaker. That being said, it brushes out really easily, and I love how it instantly adds volume to my lengths (even when I haven't styled them, as pictured above. Of course, it's expensive, but the multiple uses make this a hardworking hair product to have in your routine. Of course, with it being Oribe, the luxury bottle is something you will want to have out on display on your dressing table too.

Pros: Volumises, adds texture, adds lift to the roots, doesn't feel sticky

Cons: Not as long lasting

How to use: Spray onto dry hair for instant volume

Our verdict: A little about me; my hair is so flat and can’t hold any curl that I attempt to put in—therefore I am always on a hunt for a great texture and volumising spray. I’d say I’ve tried over 20 different types to see what actually works. What I like about the Living Proof Volume & Texture Spray is that it has a really nice smell, and is not as sticky other products. I really hate it when your hair goes sticky and crunchy so was pleased that it didn’t do that when I tested it.

It did provide texture and volume for me for a while, but after a few hours my hair was left lifeless—I have a feeling this is more to do with my type of hair rather than the product itself. I’d recommend this to someone who already has a bit of movement in their hair where the product is more likely to hold onto! That being said I’ll still be using the spray, more in the evening when I don’t need to hold it all day. The bottles are a good size, so would say that its worth the price.

Pros:Great price point, pleasant scent, and adds volume without greasiness or stickiness.

Cons:Provides more subtle volume

How to use: spray onto wet or dry hair and blowdry to create volume and lift

Our verdict: I’m a big fan of Sam McKnight, so I was excited to try this volumising spray since I hadn’t used one before. I liked that it can be applied to dry hair and then blow-dried, making it perfect for refreshing dull hair a few days after washing. The product smelled lovely and didn’t leave any residue. My hair felt volumised without feeling heavy or sticky. True to its name, it delivers that effortless, "I woke up like this" style. The volume is more subtle compared to a traditional spray, but if you want your hair to look and feel natural, this is a great option

Pros:Smells amazing, adds volume and hold to your style

Cons:Can feel a little sticky or stiff if you use too much

How to use: Spray onto damp hair prior to blowdrying, or use on dry hair to add lift to the roots

Our verdict: I had high expectations from Matilda Djerf's beauty line, and I have to say I'm impressed with this spray. It's designed to be used on damp hair prior to blowdrying to give volume and lift, but, you can also use it tactically at the roots on dry hair and blowdry in for extra volume if you're short on time. One thing I really love about this is the sandalwood scent (think Le Labo Santal 33 in a hair mist) but it also gave my hair plenty of bounce and shine too. I'd recommend this one if you want your style to hold, as it really creates a grippy texture in the hair. I'd err on the side of caution when spritzing, as too much can make hair feel crispy if you're not careful.