Paul Mitchell rates this sea spray as ideal for all hair types, especially fine to medium hair, where extra body and grip are most noticeable. It suits anyone after loose, tousled waves or a lived-in, undone texture rather than a polished, smooth finish.

It is a straightforward consumer styling product with no mixing or technical skill needed. Straight, wavy and lightly curled hair will show the texture most clearly.

Fine hair tends to fall flat because the strands are slippery. Magnesium sulfate roughens the surface just enough to add grip, which is how the spray produces beach-style body and texture rather than stiffness. The panthenol and keratin in the formula are included to condition so the hair is not left feeling brittle, and you can use it two ways: on damp hair to build waves as it dries, or on dry hair to revive lift and definition later in the day.

1. Spray liberally onto clean, damp hair and tousle with your fingers.
2. Air-dry, or blow-dry with a diffuser.
3. For additional lift and definition, spray onto dry hair.

Where it delivers: the salt-based formula adds grip and body to fine and medium hair, and it works on damp hair (air-dry or diffuse) or on dry hair for extra lift. No alcohol appears in the ingredient list, and the brand lists it as color safe.

Where it falls short: a salt spray creates matte, textured waves, not shine or smoothness, and it will not hold a sculpted style like a hairspray. Salt-type sprays can feel dry if you already have very dry hair, so pair it with a conditioning product. It is also fragranced.