How to Achieve the Perfect Messy Look with Sea Salt Spray
The effortless, tousled, beachy hairstyle has become a popular go-to look for many, and achieving it is easier than ever with sea salt spray. Whether you want natural waves, added volume, or a textured, messy finish, sea salt spray helps create a relaxed, undone style without excessive heat or styling effort.
This guide will walk you through the best techniques to use sea salt spray for a perfectly messy look, including application methods, styling tips, and expert recommendations for different hair types.
What is Sea Salt Spray and How Does It Work?
Sea salt spray is a lightweight styling product designed to add texture, volume, and a matte finish. It works by absorbing excess oil while enhancing natural waves and movement, making hair appear fuller and effortlessly tousled.
Benefits of Using Sea Salt Spray:
- Creates a natural, undone texture
- Adds volume to fine or limp hair
- Enhances waves and reduces frizz
- Works on various hair types and lengths
- Requires minimal styling and no heat
Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving the Perfect Messy Look
Step 1: Start with Damp or Dry Hair
Sea salt spray works best on slightly damp hair but can also be applied to dry hair for additional volume and hold. If starting with damp hair:
- Wash with a lightweight shampoo and conditioner to avoid weighing hair down
- Towel-dry gently, leaving some moisture in the hair
Step 2: Shake the Bottle Well
The salt and minerals in sea salt spray can settle over time, so shake the bottle thoroughly before each use to ensure even distribution.
Step 3: Apply Evenly to Hair
- Hold the bottle six to eight inches away from your head
- Lightly spritz from mid-lengths to ends, avoiding the roots to prevent excess buildup
- For added volume, flip your head upside down and spray underneath the hair
Step 4: Scrunch and Twist for Natural Texture
- Use your hands to scrunch and twist sections of hair, enhancing movement and definition
- For a more undone look, tousle the hair with your fingers to separate strands
- If hair is naturally straight, braid it loosely after applying sea salt spray and let it dry for soft waves
Step 5: Let Hair Air Dry or Use a Diffuser
- Allow hair to air dry naturally for the best results
- For extra texture and volume, use a blow dryer with a diffuser attachment
Step 6: Finish with a Light-Hold Product (Optional)
- If needed, set the style with a light-hold hairspray or a matte styling cream for long-lasting definition
- Avoid heavy products that can make hair feel stiff or greasy
Best Sea Salt Spray Techniques for Different Hair Types
For Fine or Limp Hair
- Choose a volumizing sea salt spray to lift the roots and add body
- Blow-dry with a diffuser for extra fullness
- Avoid applying too much product to prevent hair from feeling weighed down
For Wavy or Curly Hair
- Use sea salt spray to enhance natural waves while controlling frizz
- Apply to damp hair and scrunch for more defined curls
- Combine with a leave-in conditioner if hair tends to be dry
For Thick or Coarse Hair
- Opt for a hydrating sea salt spray to maintain moisture balance
- Apply a small amount and layer with a lightweight styling cream if needed
- Focus application on the mid-lengths and ends for a natural finish
For Straight Hair
- Braid or twist hair after applying sea salt spray to create soft waves
- Use a texturizing spray after styling for added hold
- Blow-dry with a round brush to introduce movement and shape
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overapplying the product – Too much sea salt spray can make hair feel stiff or sticky. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
- Applying to the roots – Focus on mid-lengths and ends to avoid a heavy or greasy appearance.
- Skipping moisture – If hair becomes too dry, mix sea salt spray with a leave-in conditioner or lightweight oil for balance.
- Neglecting styling techniques – Simply spraying the product will not always create texture. Scrunching, twisting, or braiding hair enhances the effect.
Final Thoughts
Achieving a naturally tousled, beachy look with sea salt spray is simple and requires minimal effort. By following the right techniques, you can create a textured, voluminous, and effortlessly messy hairstyle in minutes.
Sea salt spray is a versatile product that works well on different hair types, enhancing natural movement while keeping styling time to a minimum. Experiment with various application methods to find the perfect technique for your hair, and enjoy the effortlessly undone look all year round.
