Mousse is a hairstyling product that many people use to add volume, texture, and hold to their hair. For those looking for an extra strong hold from their mousse, there are some great options on the market. Keep reading to learn more about strong hold mousse and to see some recommendations for excellent products.
What is Mousse?
Mousse originated in France in the 1980s and revolutionized hairstyling by providing flexible hold and volume without weighing hair down. It has a lightweight, foamy texture that contains conditioning agents, styling polymers, and sometimes volumizing ingredients.
When applied to wet hair and allowed to air dry or dried with a diffuser attachment, mousse helps to lift the roots, add body, control frizz, enhance natural curls, and hold styles in place. The polymers coat the hair shaft to provide hold while the foam structure gives volume.
How Strong Hold Mousse is Different
Strong hold mousses use polymers that create a tighter grip on hair strands to really lock styles in place. Some common strong hold polymers found in quality mousses include:
- VP/VA Copolymer – Provides firm yet flexible hold
- Polyquaternium-11 – Adds thickness and hold, ideal for fine hair
- PVP – Creates humidity resistance and hold strength
In addition to polymers, some extra strong mousses contain ingredients like silicones and waxes to further bolster hold. The end result is mousse that can hold even elaborate updos, tight curls, and sky-high volume in place all day long.
Benefits of Strong Hold Mousse
Here are some of the benefits that make strong hold mousse a staple for many haircare routines:
- Longer lasting styles – The powerful polymers lock in style so you can go about your day without worrying about your hair losing its shape.
- Versatility – It can be used to get a firm hold on straight, curly, wavy, and coily hair types.
- Volume – The foam base provides a volumizing effect that also makes hair feel thicker.
- Lightweight feel – Unlike some gels and sprays, mousse provides hold without making hair crunchy or weighed down.
- Smooths flyaways – The POLYMERS coat hair to tame frizz and flyaways.
- Heat protection – Some mousses contain heat protectants to shield hair from hot tools.
How to Apply Strong Hold Mousse
Here are some tips for getting the most out of your strong hold mousse:
- Shake the can well before use.
- Apply to wet, freshly washed hair before styling.
- Evenly distribute from roots to ends, lifting sections as you go.
- Use a wide-tooth comb to make sure mousse reaches all strands.
- Add extra mousse at the roots when seeking volume.
- Scrunch into curls or waves to enhance texture.
- Let hair air dry or diffuse with low heat.
- Go easy – a little mousse goes a long way!
The Best Strong Hold Mousses
With so many mousses on the market, it can be hard to know which ones live up to their claims. Here are 5 top-rated extra hold mousses loved by hairstylists and buyers:
| Mousse | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Redken Pillow Proof Blow Dry Express Primer Strong Hold Mousse |
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| SexyHair Big Sexy Hair Spray & Play Volumizing Mousse |
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| Kenra Platinum Blow-Dry Strong Hold Mousse |
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| GIOVANNI Natural Mousse Air-Turbo Charged Extra Strong Hold |
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| OGX Extra Strength Hydrate & Repair + Argan Oil of Morocco Extra Hold Mousse |
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Tips for Getting the Strongest Hold
Here are some extra tips and tricks to max out the strong hold power of your mousse:
- Apply mousse to soaking wet hair – this allows it to penetrate best.
- Use a blow dryer with a diffuser attachment – the heat helps activate the polymers.
- Cool shot – Finish off with a burst of cool air to lock in style.
- Cocktail it – Layer mousse with a bit of gel for super strong hold.
- Avoid touching hair – Fingers can disrupt the hold and cause frizz.
- Use sparingly on fine hair – Too much can make it limp or sticky.
- Refresh mid-day – Reactivate with a quick spritz of water or dry shampoo.
Common Concerns with Strong Hold Mousse
While it offers many benefits, strong hold mousse also comes with some potential drawbacks. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Is it bad to use mousse every day?
Daily use of mousse is fine for most hair types. However, overusing any styling product can lead to buildup. Be sure to clarify with an occasional deep cleanse to remove residue.
Does mousse damage hair?
High-quality mousses made without harsh ingredients or alcohols won’t damage hair with normal use. Poor quality, drying formulas can potentially cause damage over time.
Is mousse bad for thin or fine hair?
Extra hold mousse can actually be great for boosting fine, limp hair. Just focus the mousse at the roots and avoid the lengths to add volume without overload. Use a light hand when applying.
Does mousse cause hair loss?
There is no evidence properly formulated mousse causes hair loss or thinning. However, some lower quality mousses rely on high alcohol content to quickly dry hair. This can potentially dry out the scalp and cause irritation.
Conclusion
With its lightweight feel and reliable hold, strong hold mousse is a versatile styling weapon. Look for salon-quality brands that avoid harsh ingredients. Apply sparingly and focus on the areas you most want hold. Amp up the strength by layering with other products. And don’t forget to regularly clarify hair to prevent dulling product buildup.
With the right mousse and proper application, you can create volume, texture, definition, and sky-high hold that lasts all day. Just avoid lower quality formulas with potential irritants and overuse. Your locks will thank you!
