How To Create Long Lasting Volume In Your Hair

I have seen people talking on social media telling you about what product to buy that's going to create all the volume in the world and it's going to solve all of your volume problems.  But you've got to know a few things so that you actually get the results from whatever product you're using.  And I don't want to see one more product die in your graveyard of unused products that didn't work.

Volume is not created only by root lift.  Root lift only covers 1/3 of what creates volume.  It's also important to address the midshaft and the ends.

PRODUCTS

First thing that you have to understand is that if you don't use a foundational product to create volume, you're just not going to get it. If you're the type of person that wants volume but you don't like the feel of product in your hair, it's really hard to get and keep any sort of volume.  So truth talk, if you want volume, especially if you have fine hair, you need to get comfortable with the feel some product in your hair to actually get long lasting volume. 

With so many different kinds of volumizing products, it can be overwhelming to know what to choose.  Here I am going to talk about a few products, what they do and what to look for.

MOUSSE

Mousse is going to feel much lighter in your hands and in your hair.  A mousse will feel much lighter in your hair but you will also not get as much control or volume from it.  Mousses that I have been trying lately are Alterna’s CAVIAR Anti-Aging® Multiplying Volume Styling Mousse.  And if you are looking for a more budget friendly option, try out Colors Wow’s Xtra Large Bombshell Volumizer.

GEL AND STYLING CREME

Gels and the creams are similar.  They feel more dense in your hands and feel more dense when you apply them.  You will feel more product in your hair once they're in your hair and dry but they're also going to give you more control and hold. Check out Bumble and Bumble Styling Creme.

MIX AND MATCH

To get the style you want, you may want to try using multiple products. You can apply styling cream or gel at your roots to get a little bit of root lift and bend.  Then on your midshaft to ends,  where you want it to feel a little bit softer, you can use a mousse or something that's a little lighter. 

Whatever products you decide to use, needs to be applied from roots midshaft to the ends. When you can do that, you've got a foundation to truly create the structure in your hair that gives you volume.

If you have a product at home and it doesn't seem to work, it may not be the product but the amount (or lack of amount) you are applying.  When you use a new product for the first time, give yourself permission to overuse it.  That way you can really learn your boundaries.  After it is dry and styled, do you have the result you want?  Does it feel too heavy? Analyze and adjust how much you use until you find that perfect amount.

Using Hot Tools To Create Lift and Bend

You want to get your hair up and off the scalp so if you are able, tilt your head upside down to dry.   Drying your hair in the opposite direction you want it to go versus drying it flat against the scalp will go a long way in creating volume.  

When using tools like round brushes, curling irons and flat irons, try to not pull the hair straight down.  When using a flat iron, use body mechanics to lock your wrist and move your arm to create an imaginary C shape.

Think of hair being like a metal.  When it becomes hot, it’s pliable.  When it cools down, that's when you're locking in the shape. 

My Favorite Hot Tools

Blowdryers: My go to dryer in the salon is the Dyson Supersonic. It does have a hefty price tag to it and is an investment. A more budget friendly option I like and use at home is the Laifen Swift.

Flat Irons: Not all flat irons are the same. I love the Dyson Corrale for its cordless option and moving plates. Another favorite that I used in the salon for YEARS is the Infrashine.

Blow Dry Brushes: A disclaimer with blow dry brushes.  They can get very hot so I don’t recommend using them often and use the lowest heat possible. You can watch the review I did on the top 5 Amazon blow dry brushes HERE.

Check out my corresponding video on Youtube ⬇️

If you try any of these tips, be sure to tag me on Instagram so I can give you a shout out and a virtual high five!