Hold is an essential part of volume. Volume is created by holding the hair away from the scalp, thus making hair appear fuller. Generating more space in between individual hair strands also creates volume. Naturally wavy or curly hair already has this attribute built in.

How Styling Products Add Volume

There are many ways that finishing products can support volume. For example, wax has a sticky property that enables individual hair strands to be molded into shape with the fingers.

Mousse & Styling Lotion

Mousse is often used prior to blow-drying with a round brush in order to lock in volume; this is normally followed by the application of hairspray to create added protection and hold. Styling rollers may be used in combination with a setting lotion to create a longer-lasting curl or wave. The angle at which the roller is wound will determine how much volume is built in.

It's important to use a base product first, so that damp hair has some help in holding its shape, just before the heat is applied. This is often referred to as setting lotion and comes in the form of a cream or mousse.

Hairspray

Once the hair is dry, it's important to give it some help to maintain its shape. A flexible to strong hold hairspray is best. The strength of the hairspray one chooses depends on how much movement one wants.

Wax

It's important to not overuse product and to use products specifically make to help create volume. Other products may be too heavy and will weight hair down. For extra strength, a strong wax can be used at the root, only where extra volume is wanted. Use sparingly!