Hairstyle Dictionary: Mousses and Foams and Why You Need Them

What is hair mousse? Many think of it as a relic from decades past, but we assure you it's not. For years we've been touting the styling powers of sculpting foams and lotions, and we're thrilled that some of our favorite products are once again making an appearance in nearly every stylist's kit and on the manes of some of our favorite muses. So, if you think crunchy curls when we say "mousse," let us introduce you to the *magic* of this must-have styler and how to use it.

Goodbye Crunch, Hello Beautiful Hair Days

If you're new to styling foams and mousses and are wondering how to use them, here is the most important thing to know: these styling foams are easy to use and offer loads of great-hair-day benefits. Think hold, body, shine, and texture.

Ever wonder why your co-worker's blowout lasts so much longer than yours? Or why your celebrity hair crush always has the best wavy texture? Chances are it's because they're using a styling foam. Ask a Paul Mitchell^® stylist “What is hair mousse?” and they'll tell you that the key to keeping even the most basic style, from soft curls to a voluminous blowout, starts with this product. Modern formulas nix the crunch factor and instead create soft, totally touchable results that last.

The Application Basics: Wash, Apply, Style!

When introducing styling foams into your daily routine, it's as simple as this: wash, towel dry, apply a handful of mousse starting at your roots, and work through your ends. Then blow-dry into your hair. To see the full benefits of what hair mousse does, just follow this basic routine. Simple, right?

Styling For Every Hair Type

Beyond the ease of mousse and foam application, here are a few stylist tips tailored to your unique hair type, texture, and preferred style:

Curly Hair

Curl girls, always use a moisturizing mousse formula and a diffuser when you blow-dry your curly hair to minimize frizz and keep your tendrils intact.

Lavender Mint Curl Refresh Foam
$24.00

Straight Hair

While naturally sleek, straight hair can sometimes lack volume. A lightweight mousse can add that desired lift, making hair appear fuller. Plus, for those days when you're aiming for soft curls or waves, a hair mousse is what your locks need to maintain that style longer without any heavy residue.

Sculpting Foam
$9.50 - $29.50

Fine Hair

For those with fine hair wondering how to use hair mousse for maximum volume, we offer volumizing mousse for body and hold. Our pros suggest applying Extra-Body Sculpting Foam^® from your roots to your ends and using a blow-dryer and round brush to create lasting volume.

Extra-Body Sculpting Foam
$9.00 - $29.50

Wavy Hair

Girls with wavy hair, you're in for such a treat. Enhance your already gorgeous texture with a light hold foam and gently air dry your hair to keep it shiny, manageable, and full of body. And don't forget to stock up on Dry Wash^® to make your style last and last.

Foaming Pommade
$20.00 - $28.50

Tight Curls and Textures

What is hair mousse's role in tight curls? Mousse specifically designed for tight curls combats humidity, provides essential hold, and moisturizes, ensuring your curls stay defined and vibrant throughout the day.

Neuro Lift HeatCTRL Volume Foam
$28.50

Coarse Hair

Coarse hair, characterized by its thick strands, is naturally strong but can sometimes feel rough or dry to the touch. A mousse with moisturizing properties is exactly what your coarse hair needs. It helps in taming any unruliness, smoothing the hair shaft, and adding a touch of shine.

HydroCream Whip Mousse
$30.00

Frizzy Hair

Mousses and foams can be a game-changer for taming unruly locks. Opt for styling products that offer moisture and frizz control. They'll help achieve your desired styles and make your frizzy hair feel softer and more manageable.

Invisiblewear Volume Whip Styling Foam
$24.00

For the Updo Enthusiasts

Putting your hair up? Keep in mind the styling magic of a salon-quality mousse. When you start with a smooth and manageable base full of shine and body, your end result will be easier to achieve.

With mousse, a simple ballerina bun stays sleek and smooth, a wispy, braided look stays put for a night of dancing, and a sky-high, sleek ponytail has volume and shine that anyone would envy.

Find Your Perfect Fit

Every hair type has its unique needs. Visit your local Paul Mitchell^® stylist to learn more about how to use hair mousse and what it is best used for, and to determine which styling foam is ideal for your hair type and styling routine. Be sure to explore our complete range of mousses and hair styling products to dive deeper into the world of modern, salon-quality hair care.