This $11 spray gave my thin, flat hair salon-level volume without the splurge
Nexxus Root Lift Spray is an affordable wonder for fine hair in need of thickening, lifting oomph.
Every single time I get my hair done, I ask for the stylist to give me the "'90s Cindy Crawford," that perfect blowout the supermodel sported on the runway, on MTV's House of Style and in Pepsi commercials for years. Even after dozens of different haircuts, styles and color changes, I've been coveting that bounce for three full decades. I’ve always envied people with naturally voluminous hair, but unfortunately, I was not blessed in that department. My hair is fine, straight, and tends to fall flat against my head instead of giving me the lifted look of my dreams. Aside from teasing my roots like a 1950s bad girl straight out of Grease, I hadn't found a solution to my flat hair dilemma until I discovered Nexxus Unbreakable Care Root Lift Spray.
After getting my hands on this spritz last month, I’m officially converted. This little green bottle gave me lift, hold and hair that actually looks naturally fuller. Watch out, Ms. Crawford, I'm coming for you!
Launched as part of the brand’s Unbreakable Care line, this spray is designed specifically for fine and thin hair that could use some oomph and body. Unlike heavy mousses or tacky sprays, it’s formulated to lift roots without weighing them down. It's also infused with the brand's proprietary blend of biotin, keratin and collagen amino acids to help fortify fragile strands over time (a plus if your hair tends to break easily).
- Lightweight lift that actually lasts on fine hair
- Soft, touchable finish
- Builds volume without feeling heavy or stiff
- Drugstore price and widely available
- Scent could be softer for sensitive noses
- Spray pattern is very direct (may over-saturate one spot)
What I loved: bouncy volume and heat protectant rolled into one easy-to-use spray
Nexxus's Root Lift instantly stood out from other volumizing sprays I've tried because of how lightweight the formula feels while still creating a long-lasting look. I quickly achieved volume at the roots without any stiffness or grit, and my hair still moved — I didn't have to compromise the lift for a pageant-ready, helmet head situation. I also really like that I don't have to use a separate heat protectant, but when I do use another product, it still layers nicely. (Since I'm an unnatural blonde, I have some breakage, so while testing the Nexxus spray, I still smoothed the ends of my hair with my current favorite Leonor Greyl Styling Serum.) The Root Lift finish stayed soft and touchable, and considering the drugstore price, the payoff feels close to salon-level volume without having to splurge.
It's also very easy to use. Just section your damp hair and spray directly at the roots or wherever you want lift. Gently massage it in at the crown of your head and throughout the rest of your hair before blow drying. Ideally, you want to use a round brush to really amp up the volume, or a hot brush (I like the T3 Airebrush for this).
What I would change: The scent is pleasant, but I wish it were a touch softer
This isn't a major complaint, but I do notice the scent more than I'd like. It’s not really overpowering, but I prefer a natural, more botanical scent (I'm a big fan of the ambery-floral scent in the Fenty Beauty shampoo and conditioner). So, this is more of a note for those with more sensitive noses than mine. I’d also tweak the nozzle slightly as the spray comes out in a direct stream that's great for targeted application, but I prefer a finer, more diffused mist that covers a larger area quickly — it’s faster, and it helps avoid over-saturating one spot.
Final verdict: Impressive bounce and body at a fabulous price
The first time I used Nexxus Root Lift Spray, I noticed the difference immediately. My hair didn’t just look fuller; it felt thicker. (For more context, my hair is fine but dense.) The volume was natural-looking, not extreme or cartoonish (though I do admit I love really big hair). Even better, it lasted through a full workday and a walk with my dog outside in 80-degree weather.
Bottom line: If your fine, limp hair refuses to hold volume, this root spray is absolutely worth a spot in your bathroom cabinet.
I'm not the only one in love with this magic spray — Real Housewife of Beverly Hills star Kyle Richards says it gives her hair "the look and feel of 3,000 more strands."
If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.)