Finishing Spray: Hairspray for setting a completed style

ByDr. Celestine (Certified Trichologist)

What is Finishing Spray?

Finishing Spray is a lightweight hair product that locks your style in place without making it feel stiff or sticky. It provides a final layer of control to tame flyaways and add a touch of shine. Think of it as the topcoat for your hairstyle, sealing everything in for a polished look.

Most people think it’s just a light hairspray, but it’s more nuanced. A key difference is that many finishing sprays contain hydrating ingredients, whereas traditional hairsprays can be drying. I see clients use heavy hold sprays for simple touch-ups and end up with dull, crispy hair. Finishing spray avoids that.

Why Finishing Spray Defies Humidity

Humidity makes hair frizz by allowing it to absorb excess moisture from the air. This causes the hair shaft to swell and the cuticle layer to roughen up. Finishing spray works by depositing a fine, flexible polymer net over each hair strand.

This net acts like an invisible shield. It smooths the cuticle and blocks ambient moisture from penetrating the hair’s inner core. In my clinic, I find that clients with high-porosity hair, which soaks up moisture like a sponge, benefit immensely from this protective barrier.

The Finishing Spray Hold That Moves

Unlike a strong-hold hairspray that glues hairs together, finishing spray offers a flexible hold. The polymers it uses are designed to allow for movement while still maintaining the style’s shape. Your hair can sway and bounce without collapsing into a mess.

Think of it like the difference between a rigid plastic box and a breathable mesh bag. One traps everything stiffly inside, while the other holds the contents securely but allows for flexibility. I always recommend this for clients who hate the “helmet head” feeling but still need their style to last through the day.

Finishing Spray as a Shine Secret

Shine comes from a smooth, flat cuticle layer that reflects light evenly. Many finishing sprays contain light-reflecting particles and silicones that fill in microscopic gaps on the hair’s surface. This creates a more uniform, mirror-like surface that amplifies light reflection.

It essentially acts as a blurring filter for your hair, smoothing over minor imperfections and frizz. When patients complain of dull hair, I often suggest a finishing spray over a heavy oil, which can weigh fine hair down. The spray delivers shine without the grease.

When Your Finishing Spray Fails

Finishing spray can fail if you apply it too closely or too heavily. Holding the can less than six inches away will deposit too much product in one spot. This creates sticky patches that attract dirt and dust, defeating the purpose of a lightweight finish.

Another common mistake is using it on day-old hair with significant product buildup. The spray needs a relatively clean surface to adhere to properly. If it’s applied over old dry shampoo or excess serum, it can’t form an even film and will look blotchy. A quick brush-out beforehand is non-negotiable.

Will It Work For You?

Yes

  • If you have a completed style that just needs locking in.
  • When you desire a natural-looking, flexible hold without stiffness.
  • If your main concerns are flyaways and adding a final touch of shine.

No

  • If you are trying to build volume or hold from scratch on wet hair.
  • When you need an extreme, weather-proof hold for an elaborate updo.
  • If your hair is already feeling heavy or greasy from other products.

From My Experience

In my practice, I’ve observed that finishing spray is the most under-utilized tool for maintaining hair health between washes. People often over-wash to combat slight frizz or a lack of polish, but a good finishing spray can refresh a style and add that needed smoothness, extending the time between shampoos. This reduces overall mechanical and chemical stress on the hair.

I also notice a distinct difference in outcomes for clients with textured hair types. They often use heavier creams and butters for definition. A light mist of finishing spray over their dry, styled hair can lock in that definition without disrupting the curl pattern or adding weight, something heavier sealants can do. It’s about the final lock without the shock.

Never use a finishing spray as a heat protectant. Its film-formers are not designed to withstand high temperatures from styling tools. Applying it before heat styling can actually cause the product to bake onto the hair, leading to dullness and potential damage. Always use a dedicated protectant for that job.

Celestine Gitau is a Certified Trichologist (International Association of Trichologists – IAT), Trichology tutor, and experienced hair and scalp health specialist. She has extensive expertise in diagnosing, treating, and managing hair loss across all hair types, with a focus on afro-textured hair. Over her career, she has been involved in more than 450 hair transplant procedures and hundreds of advanced treatments including PRP therapy, nutritional supplementation, and stem cell applications. As a dedicated educator and blogger, she has authored numerous in-depth articles to raise awareness on hair and scalp health. Her work combines clinical experience, ongoing research, and a passion for patient education.
Note: The information shared is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance.