Hair Care Products Medium Hold Hairspray Vs. Strong Hold Hairspray By Marilyn Atkins Posted on August 20, 2023 0 In the ongoing battle between medium hold hairspray and strong hold hairspray, it can be a challenge to determine which one is the best fit for your hair needs. With medium hold providing flexibility and movement, and strong hold delivering ultimate staying power, each option has its own unique benefits. In this article, we will compare and contrast the two, helping you make an informed decision and achieve the perfect hairstyle that suits your preferences and lasts all day. From updos to beach waves, we’ve got you covered! Definition of Medium Hold Hairspray Summary Medium hold hairspray is a popular hair styling product that provides a moderate level of hold, allowing your hair to maintain its shape while still retaining its natural movement and flexibility. It offers a balance between hold and flexibility, making it suitable for everyday use and a variety of hairstyles. Medium hold hairspray contains specific ingredients that help the product achieve its unique properties. Ingredients The ingredients in medium hold hairspray can vary depending on the brand and specific product. However, some common ingredients found in medium hold hairsprays include polymers, alcohol, water, and conditioning agents. Polymers are responsible for providing the hold and setting the hair in place without making it stiff or rigid. Alcohol helps evaporate the product quickly, preventing the hair from becoming weighed down. Water gives the hairspray its ability to be sprayed onto the hair, while conditioning agents help keep the hair nourished and protected. Effectiveness When it comes to effectiveness, medium hold hairspray strikes a perfect balance between holding the hair in place and allowing natural movement. It is designed to provide a moderate level of hold without making the hair stiff or crunchy. The hairspray evenly distributes through the hair, ensuring that every strand receives the right amount of hold. It is effective in maintaining your desired hairstyle for an extended period without sacrificing flexibility and movement. Durability The durability of medium hold hairspray can vary depending on factors such as hair type, humidity levels, and the specific product used. Generally, medium hold hairspray provides a decent level of durability, keeping your hairstyle intact throughout the day. However, in more extreme conditions, such as high humidity or intense physical activity, the hold may not last as long. It is important to consider these factors when deciding on the level of hold you need for your hairstyle. Definition of Strong Hold Hairspray Summary Strong hold hairspray is a hair styling product known for its maximum hold and long-lasting properties. It provides excellent control and ensures that your hairstyle remains in place, even in challenging conditions. Strong hold hairspray is typically recommended for more intricate and demanding hairstyles or special occasions where you need your hair to stay put without any compromise on long-lasting hold. Ingredients Like medium hold hairspray, the specific ingredients in strong hold hairspray can vary among different products. However, some common ingredients found in strong hold hairsprays include high levels of polymers, alcohol, water, and fixatives. The higher concentration of polymers and fixatives in strong hold hairsprays is what gives it its exceptional hold and staying power. These ingredients work together to ensure your hair remains in place and resists movement or humidity. Effectiveness When it comes to effectiveness, strong hold hairspray takes the crown. It is specifically designed to provide maximum hold, keeping even the most challenging hairstyles intact. Strong hold hairspray creates a protective barrier around the hair, preventing it from frizzing, flattening, or losing its shape. It allows for less natural movement compared to medium hold hairspray but ensures that your hair remains precisely as you styled it. Durability Strong hold hairspray is renowned for its durability, making it ideal for all-day wear and special occasions. It can withstand various environmental factors, including humidity, wind, and heat, which can often cause hairstyles to lose their shape. With its long-lasting properties, strong hold hairspray keeps your hair in place for extended periods without the need for constant touch-ups or reapplication. It offers the ultimate hold and reliability, allowing you to confidently rock your styled hair throughout the day. Key Differences between Medium Hold and Strong Hold Hairsprays Holding Power One of the key differences between medium hold and strong hold hairsprays is their holding power. Medium hold hairspray offers a moderate level of hold, allowing for natural movement and flexibility. On the other hand, strong hold hairspray provides maximum hold, ensuring that your hair remains precisely as styled, even in challenging conditions. Flexibility When it comes to flexibility, medium hold hairspray takes the lead. It allows for natural movement and touchability while still providing hold. Strong hold hairspray, on the other hand, offers less flexibility due to its stronghold. While it keeps the hair in place, it may feel stiffer and less movable compared to medium hold hairspray. Usage Medium hold hairspray is suitable for everyday use and versatile hairstyles. Whether you’re opting for loose waves, a casual updo, or simply want to tame flyaways, medium hold hairspray provides the right level of hold without feeling heavy or sticky. Strong hold hairspray, on the other hand, is best reserved for more elaborate hairstyles, updos, and special occasions where you need maximum hold and style longevity. Application The application process for both medium hold and strong hold hairsprays is generally the same. However, strong hold hairspray requires more caution due to its potent hold. It is crucial to apply it sparingly and ensure even distribution throughout the hair. Medium hold hairspray, on the other hand, can be applied more liberally without sacrificing movement or flexibility. Hair Type Suitability Both medium hold and strong hold hairsprays can be suitable for various hair types. However, medium hold hairspray is more forgiving and tends to work well for most hair types, including fine, medium, and thick hair. Strong hold hairspray, on the other hand, is more suitable for thicker or unruly hair types that require extra hold and control. It may feel heavy or weigh down finer hair types. Factors to Consider when Choosing between Medium Hold and Strong Hold Hairsprays Hair Length When choosing between medium hold and strong hold hairsprays, consider your hair length. Medium hold hairspray generally works well for shorter to medium-length hair, as it allows for natural movement and flexibility. Strong hold hairspray is ideal for longer hair or more complex hairstyles that require a maximum amount of hold to stay in place. Hairstyle Consider the hairstyle you want to achieve before deciding on the level of hold. If you’re aiming for a relaxed, tousled look or loose waves, medium hold hairspray will provide just the right amount of hold without sacrificing movement. For intricate updos, elaborate braids, or hairstyles that demand impeccable hold, strong hold hairspray is the better choice. Hair Texture Hair texture plays a significant role in determining which hold level is suitable. Medium hold hairspray works well for most hair textures, including straight, wavy, or slightly curly hair. It allows for natural movement and prevents the hair from feeling weighed down. Strong hold hairspray is more suitable for thicker, coarser hair textures that require extra hold to stay in place. Environmental Factors Consider the environmental factors you will be exposed to when choosing between medium hold and strong hold hairsprays. If you live in a humid climate or will be spending time outdoors, strong hold hairspray offers better resistance to humidity and keeps your hairstyle intact even in challenging conditions. Medium hold hairspray may not provide the same level of durability under such circumstances. Benefits of Medium Hold Hairspray Provides Natural Movement One of the significant benefits of medium hold hairspray is that it allows for natural movement. It provides enough hold to keep your hairstyle intact while still allowing your hair to have a soft, touchable feel. With medium hold hairspray, you can have the perfect balance of hold and movement, achieving a more relaxed and natural look. Easier to Brush Out Another advantage of medium hold hairspray is its ability to be easily brushed out. Unlike strong hold hairspray, which can leave the hair feeling stiff and difficult to restyle, medium hold hairspray allows for easy brushing or combing without leaving residue or build-up. It provides the flexibility to reshape or restyle your hair throughout the day without compromising on hold. Suitable for Everyday Use Medium hold hairspray is perfect for everyday use. Its versatility and ability to provide a natural look make it suitable for a wide range of hairstyles, from casual to professional. Whether you’re going for a sleek ponytail, beachy waves, or simply want to keep your hair in place, medium hold hairspray offers the right amount of hold for your daily styling needs. Benefits of Strong Hold Hairspray Offers Maximum Hold The primary benefit of strong hold hairspray is its ability to provide maximum hold. It ensures that your hairstyle remains intact throughout the day, even in challenging conditions. Strong hold hairspray creates a firm hold that keeps your hair in place, making it ideal for more complex or elaborate hairstyles that require precise control and longevity. Long-Lasting Strong hold hairspray offers exceptional durability and long-lasting properties. It withstands various environmental factors, such as humidity, heat, and wind, ensuring that your hairstyle remains intact for extended periods without the need for frequent touch-ups. With strong hold hairspray, you can confidently rock your styled hair all day long. Ideal for Updos and Special Occasions Strong hold hairspray is particularly beneficial when it comes to updos and special occasions. Whether you’re attending a wedding, formal event, or simply want to create an elegant updo, strong hold hairspray ensures that your hair stays in place without any compromise on style. It provides the reliability and hold required for intricate hairstyles that demand precision. Drawbacks of Medium Hold Hairspray Limited Hold One of the drawbacks of medium hold hairspray is its limited hold. While it provides enough hold for most everyday hairstyles, it may not be sufficient for more intricate or demanding styles that require maximum staying power. If you have unruly or thick hair that needs extra control, medium hold hairspray may not provide the level of hold required. May Not Sustain Intricate Styles Due to its moderate hold, medium hold hairspray may struggle to sustain intricate or complex styles that demand meticulous control. If you’re aiming for a hairstyle with intricate braiding, detailed updos, or intricate waves, medium hold hairspray may not be the most suitable choice. You may find that the hair loses its shape or begins to fall apart throughout the day. Requires Frequent Reapplication Another drawback of medium hold hairspray is that it may require more frequent reapplication throughout the day compared to strong hold hairspray. While it provides decent hold, it may not have the same longevity, especially under more challenging conditions. If you’re looking for a hairspray that keeps your hairstyle intact without the need for constant touch-ups, medium hold hairspray may fall short. Drawbacks of Strong Hold Hairspray Stiffness One of the main drawbacks of strong hold hairspray is the stiffness it can create in the hair. Strong hold hairspray is designed to keep your hair precisely as styled, which can result in a firm and less flexible feel. The hair may feel stiff or rigid to the touch, limiting its natural movement. If you prefer a more relaxed or soft look, strong hold hairspray may not be the best option. Difficulty in Restyling Due to its strong hold, restyling the hair can be challenging with strong hold hairspray. Once the hairspray sets, it forms a protective barrier around the hair, making it more difficult to reshape or reposition. If you’re someone who likes to change hairstyles throughout the day or needs flexibility for spontaneous restyling, strong hold hairspray may not be the most suitable choice. Can Leave Residue or Build-Up Strong hold hairspray, particularly those with higher concentrations of fixatives, may leave residue or build-up on the hair over time. The accumulation of product can result in a dull or sticky appearance, affecting the overall look and feel of the hair. Regular clarifying or deep-cleansing shampoos may be necessary to remove the build-up caused by strong hold hairspray. Tips for Using Medium Hold Hairspray Spray from a Distance When applying medium hold hairspray, it is best to hold the can approximately 12 inches away from your head. Spraying from a distance ensures even distribution and prevents the hair from being overloaded with product in one area. Apply in Layers For additional hold and control, consider applying medium hold hairspray in layers. After styling your hair, spray a fine mist of hairspray all over, then repeat the process, focusing on problem areas or sections that need extra hold. Building up the layers gradually allows for a more even and reliable hold. Focus on Problem Areas If you have specific areas of your hairstyle that need extra hold, such as flyaways or frizzy sections, focus the spray on those areas. This targeted approach ensures that you are using the hairspray more efficiently and helps prevent unnecessary product build-up on the rest of your hair. Tips for Using Strong Hold Hairspray Use Sparingly Strong hold hairspray is potent and requires sparing application. Start by spraying a small amount onto your hair, then gradually build up if needed. Using too much strong hold hairspray can result in an overly stiff or unnatural look, so it’s best to apply conservatively and adjust as necessary. Avoid Overapplication To prevent the hair from feeling weighed down or looking greasy, avoid overapplying strong hold hairspray. Instead of continuously spraying the entire head, focus on specific sections or problem areas that require the maximum hold. This targeted approach allows for optimal control without compromising on the hair’s natural movement. Test before Special Events If you plan to use strong hold hairspray for a special event or occasion, it’s always a good idea to test the product beforehand. Apply the hairspray to a small section of hair and examine the results. This way, you can ensure that the hold, finish, and overall look meet your expectations before committing to the entire hairstyle. In conclusion, the choice between medium hold and strong hold hairspray ultimately depends on your personal preferences, hairstyle, and specific needs. Medium hold hairspray offers a balance between hold and flexibility, providing a natural look suitable for everyday use. On the other hand, strong hold hairspray offers maximum hold and durability, making it ideal for more intricate hairstyles and special occasions. Consider factors such as hair length, hairstyle, hair texture, and environmental conditions to determine which hold level is best for you. Whether you opt for medium hold or strong hold hairspray, these products can enhance your hairstyle and help you achieve the desired look with ease.