If you’ve even just logged into TikTok or Instagram in the last month, you’ve likely seen a ton of posts targeting “liquid hair.” No, it’s not what it sounds like. In fact, the trend has nothing to do with wet hair at all. Confusing, right? Well, we’re here to clear that up. If you’re not yet familiar with the liquid hair trend, let us explain.
This popular style features an ultra-shine, glossy finish that makes your hair look almost liquid, and while I think we can all agree that this trend instantly elevates any outfit or makeup moment, I’ve always wondered how to actually get your hair to look like this without spending hours at the salon.
If you are asking yourself the same question, you are in luck. Hair Expert, Artist Director and Educator AvedaChristophe Potinfind out how to achieve that “liquid” finish. Keep scrolling to find out all the information you need to know…
What is the liquid hair trend?
First of all, I Button’s Embrace the trend: “Liquid hair has a glossy finish and is described as shiny,” he explains. “Contrary to the name, it should look soft and bouncy, not wet. You’re looking for hairstyles with a very smooth finish and lots of movement.”
How to get liquid hair
So how can you achieve this look at home? ButtonBelow is a step-by-step guide:
1. “Preparation is the key to success with this liquid finish style,” he explains. Button“Firstly, your scalp needs to be in perfect condition, so I recommend Aveda’s Scalp Solutions Overnight Renewal Serum (£42) followed by Scalp Solutions Exfoliating Scalp Treatment (£39).”
2. Once your scalp is thoroughly cleansed, use your favourite shampoo and conditioner. “For a glass-like shine, add Aveda Botanical Repair Bond Building Flash Treatment (£42) to get the results you want,” she says. ButtonNowadays there are also plenty of at-home hair gloss treatments available that you can use between shampoo and conditioner, such as Ouai Hair Gloss (£30) and Redken’s Acidic Colour Gloss Activated Glass Gloss Treatment (£33).
3. To style it: Button She recommends using a styling cream to protect hair and reduce flyaways, then dry it with an ionic hair dryer and a large round brush. “Instead of a metal brush, which conducts heat but cools quickly, I recommend the YS Park brush, which is really good at smoothing the hair cuticle so your hair isn’t 100% dry all the time,” she says. Button.
4. Once hair is dry, apply a heat protectant and conditioning mist, then use large barrel tongs to add movement to your hair. “Wrap hair clockwise around the barrel like a ribbon for a smooth finish,” she advises. Button. After your hair is set and cooled, style with a paddle brush and blow dry for a beautifully smooth, soft, bouncy, shiny finish. You can also add a bit of hair oil for extra shine.
Liquid Hair Inspiration
Very chic.
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley always has the shiniest hair.
Yes, this trend applies to both long and short hair.
Hair goal.
Liquid hair and a bouncy blow dry are a match made in heaven.
Dua Lipa is also a fan of this trend.
amazing.
Liquid Hair Products
Fable and Main
Holiroots™ Pre-Wash Intensifying Treatment Hair Oil
As mentioned above, the key to shiny hair is preparation. I like to use this hair oil before washing my hair, as it strengthens my scalp and roots.
Aveda
Scalp Solutions Exfoliating Scalp Treatment
Button I recommend this scalp scrub, which is effective at gently exfoliating and removing product buildup.
Color Wow
Dreamcoat Supernatural Spray
This spray protects your hair from heat damage and leaves it with a super shiny finish.
Redken
Acid Color Gloss Active Glass Gloss Treatment
For salon-quality shine, apply this treatment weekly after shampooing and leave on for 5 minutes before rinsing.
Kerastase
Chroma Absolute Soin Acid Chroma Gloss
This high gloss treatment also helps maintain color vibrancy.
L’Oreal Paris
Elvive Glycolic Gloss Rinse Off 5 Minute Lamination Treatment
That’s right, even L’Oreal sells an affordable at-home gloss treatment that can help you achieve that liquid look.
