By LP Skin Team 
In professional hair care, the proper selection and application of styling products are essential to achieving lasting, polished results. Among the most frequently misunderstood products are finishing spray, hairspray, and setting spray. Though they may seem similar at first glance, each serves a distinct purpose in the styling process. This article explores their roles, differences, and correct usage for optimal results.
What Is Finishing Spray for Hair?
A finishing spray is a product applied as the final step in either a hair or makeup routine to enhance and secure the completed look. In hair care, it helps smooth flyaways, add shine, and deliver a light to medium hold without stiffness. In makeup, finishing spray is used to seamlessly blend layers and set the makeup in place, often improving wear time and providing a natural, polished finish.
What Is Setting Spray for Hair?
A setting spray for hair is used earlier in the styling process to help set curls, waves, or blowouts in place as they cool or dry. It acts almost like a primer, offering light structure that supports the style as you build it. Some setting sprays offer thermal protection, making them especially suitable for use before heat styling with curling irons or flat irons.
Is Finishing Spray the Same as Hairspray?
No, finishing spray and hairspray are not the same. Hairspray typically provides stronger, more durable hold to lock styles in place. Finishing sprays offer lighter, more flexible hold meant to complete and enhance a look rather than control or fix it rigidly.
The key distinction lies in the purpose:
- Hairspray is for control and longevity.
- Finishing spray is for polish and movement.
What Does Hairspray Do?
Hairspray—also known as hair lacquer or spritz—is a widely used styling product designed to hold hair in place and protect it from environmental factors like humidity and wind. It helps maintain the desired shape of a hairstyle throughout the day. Most hairsprays are composed of film-forming agents for hold, conditioning ingredients for manageability, and a propellant to evenly disperse the product as a fine mist.
Setting Spray vs. Finishing Spray vs. Hair Spray
| Feature | Finishing Spray | Hairspray | Setting Spray |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | Adds polish, shine, and light hold | Provides strong hold and locks style in place | Preps and sets the style during the styling process |
| When to Use | Final step after styling | After completing the hairstyle | Before or during styling, especially before heat tools |
| Hold Level | Light to flexible | Light to extra-strong (varies by formula) | Light to medium |
| Texture/Finish | Soft, natural, glossy or matte depending on type | Can range from brushable to firm or stiff | Lightweight and invisible |
| Hair Feel | Soft, touchable, movable | May feel stiff or crunchy if overapplied | Soft and prepped for styling |
| Typical Use Cases | Reducing flyaways, adding shine, refining the look | Securing curls, volume, updos, or sleek styles | Supporting curls, blowouts, or styles with heat tools |
| Heat Protection | Not typically included | Sometimes included | Often includes heat protection |
| Brushability | Very high | Varies (brushable formulas available) | High |
| Can Be Used with Heat Tools? | Not recommended | Only if labeled heat-protective | Yes, often designed for that purpose |
Common Components in Finishing Spray, Hairspray, and Setting Spray
While all three sprays serve different purposes, they often share similar base components—primarily solvents (like alcohol) to help the product dry quickly, and polymers that create a flexible film around the hair strand for hold and structure. Hairsprays typically contain stronger film-forming agents such as polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) or acrylates, which provide long-lasting hold but can feel stiff if overapplied. Finishing sprays often include lighter polymers and added shine-enhancing ingredients like silicones or botanical oils to smooth the cuticle and reduce frizz. Setting sprays may contain thermal protectants (like hydrolyzed proteins or silicones) and flexible hold agents that are activated with heat, helping the hair take shape during styling. Many professional formulations also include UV filters and conditioning agents to protect the hair from environmental stressors and improve manageability.
When and How to Use Hair Spray
Use hairspray:
- After styling, to hold curls or straight styles in place.
- To tame frizz and flyaways.
- To create volume by spraying at the roots and teasing gently.
- To secure updos or intricate hairstyles.
To apply:
- Hold the can 8–12 inches away from the head.
- Spray in a sweeping motion.
- Allow to dry without touching for a few seconds.
How to Use Finishing Spray for Hair
Use finishing spray as the final step in your styling routine:
- After curling or straightening to add light hold and shine.
- Over updos to refine the style without stiffness.
- For a natural look where flexibility and movement are key.
To apply:
- Hold the spray 10–12 inches from the hair.
- Lightly mist over the entire style.
- Let it settle without combing through.
Can You Use Hairspray as Setting Spray?
Technically, hairspray is not designed to be used as a setting spray. While it may help hold styles in place, it lacks the lightweight texture and heat protection typically found in true setting sprays. Using hairspray before styling with heat tools may lead to product buildup or even hair damage if not formulated for that use.
Does Hairspray Make Your Hair Hard?
Traditional hairsprays, especially those with strong or extra-strong hold, can leave the hair feeling hard or crunchy. However, modern formulations often balance hold with flexibility, allowing for brushable and soft finishes. Choosing the right level of hold for your hair type and style is crucial to avoiding stiffness.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Product for Your Style
Understanding the differences between finishing spray, hairspray, and setting spray allows for more precise styling and better hair health. Use setting spray to prep and structure the style, hairspray to secure it, and finishing spray to perfect the final result with polish and flexibility.
Each product plays a unique role—and when used correctly, they can elevate your hair styling routine to a professional level.