Hairspray Flake Fix
Mason O'Donnell
| 04-06-2025
· Fashion Team
Hey Lykkers! Ever sprayed your hair to perfection only to find little white flakes snowing down on your shoulders later? Ugh, the dreaded “hairspray dandruff” — and no, it's not your scalp’s fault. It's your hairspray acting up! But don’t worry, you’re not doomed to flake like a croissant.
Let’s break down why this happens and how to stop your hairspray from flaking all over you.

Why Is My Hairspray Flaking?

Let’s be real — not all hairsprays are created equal. That annoying flaking usually comes down to one (or more) of these culprits:
- Over-application: Too much product builds up and dries into visible residue.
- Low-quality formula: Cheap hairsprays often use alcohol-heavy formulas that dry out and flake.
- Layering products: Spraying on top of other styling products can create a chalky mess.
- Brushing after spraying: Breaking the dried product causes it to crumble like dried glue.

How to Stop the Flakes

Here are some tried-and-true tips to keep your style intact — without looking like it’s snowing:
1. Spray Lightly (and Evenly)
Less is more! Hold the can 8–12 inches from your hair and mist it in short bursts. Avoid drenching one area — it leads to crusty buildup and flakes.
2. Choose a Better Formula
Look for a flexible-hold, alcohol-free hairspray that promises a flake-free finish. Some salon-quality brands to try:
- Kenra Volume Spray 25 – strong hold, no white residue.
- Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray – lightweight, non-flaking.
- Tresemmé Compressed Micro-Mist Spray – affordable and flake-resistant.
3. Avoid Product Overload
Don’t pile hairspray over gels, mousses, or waxes unless they’re designed to layer. Too many textures can clash and cause flaking.
4. Apply to Dry Hair Only
Make sure your hair is fully dry before spraying — wet hair + hairspray = a weird gummy mess that dries flaky.
5. Don’t Brush It Out
Once hairspray is in and dried, brushing or combing it disrupts the hold and causes it to break apart. If you need to restyle, dampen the hair a little to soften the spray first.

Bonus Tip: Clean Build-Up Often

If you use hairspray regularly, cleanse your hair with a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove any lingering product buildup. This helps prevent future flaking and keeps your scalp happy.

Say Goodbye to Snowy Shoulders

Flaking hairspray doesn’t have to ruin your look. With a few smart changes to your routine — and maybe a new can in your toolkit — you can lock in your style without the embarrassing dust. Stay fab, flake-free, and confident out there, Lykkers!