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The ‘80s were known for their iconic style that defined a generation. Gen X girls aspired to emulate the big hair and mall poufs sported by celebrities like Madonna, Janet Jackson and Cher. Even men of the era got in on the look — Jon Bon Jovi and Andre Agassi were known for their voluminous locks.
Today’s look is a bit more toned down, but hair with volume will never go out of style. Here’s how to get fluffy hair that will turn heads for all the right reasons.
Begin by using a volumizing shampoo. These formulations were made to help thicken hair and add loads of body. Try shampooing twice — once to remove any excess styling products and again to get locks extra clean. Another way to get fluffy hair is with a clarifying shampoo designed to remove heavy buildup. These should not be used every day, though, as they can be drying. About once a week should suffice.
Don’t you love how your hair looks after spending a day at the beach? It’s thick, texturized and may be wavy even if your hair is usually stick-straight. You can thank sea salt because it opens your hair cuticles and plumps them up. You can mimic this at home by using a texturizing sea salt spray. Mist it on, comb it through and even make like an ‘80s diva and scrunch to your heart’s content.
Blow-dry your hair upside down to add body. This is a tried-and-true trick for how to get fluffy hair, especially when combined with styling products. You can also use your dryer’s diffuser, which adds even more volume by dispersing the air stream over a wider area. Bonus: It helps protect against heat damage. Use it in a circular motion for more va-voom.
Most people have heard of curling irons, but have you ever tried a curling brush? These clever devices do double duty — they dry and curl your hair simultaneously. Use them when your hair is slightly damp, not ringing wet. You can choose different barrel sizes and attachments — bristles can resemble a hairbrush or be more like comb teeth. The results will be loose waves and definition rather than tight curls.
Sometimes going old school is best. Certain products stick around because they work, and that includes hot rollers. This ‘80s staple works by heating up in a case, and once the rollers reach the right temperature, you roll them into your hair. Begin at the bottom of a section of hair and roll it tightly to your head, securing in place with a pin. The rollers will cool off in about 15 minutes and then you remove, tousle your tresses carefully and mist with a setting spray.
Here’s another blast from the past — teasing. No, you won’t end up with a bouffant beehive reminiscent of the ‘50s, but this is a great way to add volume that sticks around. Use a fine-toothed comb and carefully back-brush your hair in small sections at the roots. Don’t do this too roughly, as it will result in breakage. Smooth hair gently when done so there’s no visible tease. You want to look natural, not like you received an electric shock.
Full, fluffy hair looks good on anyone. Achieving this look just takes the right products and a little know-how. Rock your new look with confidence and make it modern without fully embracing the ‘80s. Aqua Net is optional.
