If you’ve taken the time to curl your hair or perfect an updo, the last thing you want is for it to lose its shape an hour later. That’s where a the best hairsprays comes in. While hairspray was once synonymous with stiff, crunchy textures, a new generation of formulas has changed the game, with both luxury and budget brands offering lightweight mists that provide lasting hold without leaving hair feeling heavy or rigid.That said, there are a few things to consider before choosing your next bottle. Anita Rice, co-founder and director of sustainable salon chains Buller & Rice, explains what to look for in a hairspray. “Lightweight and medium hairspray usually has a brushable texture to it, so the ideal time to use this is during styling, i.e after using heat tool to create waves, before brushing out or spraying back-combing prior to executing your final shape,” she says.Technique is important too, she adds: “If you are using heat tools to create waves, some stylists like to spray each curl as they finish. Others might opt for spraying all over the head then brushing out.” Spraying too close to your hair is also a common mistake. “Spraying sections with hairspray before using heat tools isn’t ideal for hair health. Instead, I opt for spraying after heat is applied,” Rice explains. Last but not least, her top tip for washing out strong hold hairspray is to brush your hair thoroughly before shampooing to make it easier to wash out.To find the best hairsprays, I tested a range of formulas to see which delivered long-lasting hold without stiffness or stickiness. The best performers kept styles intact, boosted volume and left hair looking healthy and glossy.Read more: 35 best shampoos and conditioners for all kinds of hairOur beauty expert tried and tested a wide range of hairsprays to find this years very best (The Independent)The best hair sprays for 2026 are:Best overall – Sam McKnight modern hairspray multi-tasking styling mist: £29, Spacenk.comBest budget buy – L’Oreal hairspray by elnett for normal hold & shine: £8.01, Amazon.co.ukBest for shine – Moroccanoil luminous hairspray medium: £19, Sephora.co.ukBest for strong hold – Color Wow cult favorite firm + flexible hairspray: £29, Boots.comBest for humidity – Ghd perfect ending - final fix hairspray: £14.95, Boots.comRead more: Best hair dryers, tested