Get a haircut.
No, seriously. While it might seem odd to cut hair off when you want to make it look as though you’ve got more of it, long hair can sometimes look flatter and less voluminous than short hair. “Shorter haircuts naturally appear fuller, especially when layered properly,” says Boozer. Thin or fine hair that’s also long can look stringy, but if you’re willing to part with your long locks, then shorter cuts (or at least some strategically placed layers) will be a game changer for you.
“Shags can add more volume by releasing the weight at the top,” says Dueñas. The choppy, layered hairstyle gives a messy, undone look that has tons of movement and delivers natural-looking volume.
If you want to keep your hair long, Boozer has a trick: “Cut subtle, shorter layers at the crown, almost like a hidden underlayer,” she says. “These shorter pieces act like a kickstand, lifting the longer hair above them for built-in volume without adding frizz or flyaways.” Genius!
Cavalcante agrees that the right haircut can make all the difference. “Blunt cuts, soft layers in the right places, and adding movement around the face can instantly create the illusion of fullness,” he says. Adding hair extensions is another option worth discussing with your stylist, who can apply sew-in strands to help build fullness and layers.
Though layers are a great way to give movement and volume to your blowout, you may be wondering where to start. “There’s a wide range of haircuts that can complement your texture and length, so if you’re looking to elevate your next haircut, I always suggest bringing inspiration photos to your stylist,” says Ocando.
Invest in volumizing products.
With so many volumizing styling products out there, these will make a real difference in your blowout. “Apply a lightweight volumizing mousse or a root-lifting spray to the crown and midlengths of your hair,” says Boozer. The most important part: “Avoid heavy products that can weigh hair down,” she says, as this is what causes hair to fall flat in the first place. You want to find a product that adds body without weight.
When applying a root-lifting spray, “target the roots and create lift right where you need it,” Boozer says.
You can also buy texture or volume powder: “These powders add instant grip and lift at the roots, making them great for reviving day-two hair,” Boozer says. Just don’t go crazy with the application—too much, and your hair will look powdery and feel rough.
Of course, hairspray and texturizing spray are must-haves as well. If you already use them and feel like they’re not doing enough, try spritzing them on wet hair at the roots, Dueñas advises. Doing this will “give tons of volume and a light, workable texture,” he says. “You won’t feel it when your hair is dry, but you will see the volume.”
