Updos are a feature in my life no matter what season it is, thus they must stay perfectly put (even if the overall vibe is “messy”) through wind, rain, and shine. And what is the essential ingredient when concocting and weather-proofing said style?

Road Test: Diary of a Hairspray Heavyweight - Hair - Hairspray

A hairspray you can trust.

Not surprisingly, over the years I’ve become somewhat of a connoisseur. We hairspray aficionados don’t need heavy, we don’t need sticky, and we sure don’t need flaky (gross). We do, however, need hold—extra-strong hold—that works without sacrificing our luscious sheen and gloss. I personally love spritzes strong enough to make hair stand on end—at least you know you’ll be set for the day ahead. The wrong choice can turn strong, bouncy hair weak, limp, and lifeless; over time, build-up can dull shine and generally contribute to what the pros call “lackluster.”

Now, after a long winter and a rainy spring of spraying away, I come to you with five of the all-time best hairsprays, specific for my use: extreme hold without any damaging effects.