What Does a Root Volumizer Do?

When you stroll down the hair care aisle, you may happen upon shampoos and styling products that carry the “root volumizer” label. What does that mean, and do you need it? Here’s everything you should know.

What Is a Root Volumizer?

Also called root lifters, root volumizers add a little “oomph” to your hair. They make hair look fuller by building up strands and creating texture.

You can use these volumizing products on their own or in addition to volumizing techniques such as curling and teasing. However, you need to carefully consider the properties of each product to determine if they’ll work with your hair type and desired style.

Who Should Use One?

Anyone who wants a little more lift can benefit from using a root volumizer. However, certain hair types naturally have volume, while others could use a little help.

If you already have full, curly or kinky hair, you may only need a little product now and then. On the other hand, if you have fine hair, you should make volumizing products part of your regular styling routine.

Fine hair has thinner strands and less texture, which means your hair may look flat even if you have a lot of it. The good news is, root lifters work wonderfully with the fine type. However, you need to look out for heavier products such as mousse, as fine hair is naturally more oily and may appear greasy if you use something extra moisturizing.

What Kind of Root Volumizer Should You Use?

Root lifters come in a variety of textures and consistencies, ensuring you can find one that works for you. Of course, to figure out your best option, you need to learn about the properties of each.

Spray

Volumizing sprays are popular because they’re easy to apply. You can build as much fullness as you want, as these products tend to be lightweight.

Mousse

If you have coarse hair, mousse may be a good option. The consistency of shaving cream, mousse is moisturizing, so it nourishes dry hair.

Most mousses dry shiny and less flexible, so you should choose this root volumizer if you want more definition. For example, a mousse is an excellent choice for tighter curls.

Powder

If you struggle with oil, a lifting powder is a perfect option. Not only does volumizing powder make hair appear fuller, but it can absorb excess oil just like dry shampoo does.

However, one thing to keep an eye out for is the color. Make sure the powder is translucent, or you may look like you have dandruff.

Lotion

Volumizing lotions are the thickest product on this list and often double as conditioners. They’re great for curls, as they nourish, hydrate and define while adding lift.

How Do You Use Root Lifters?

One of the most important things to remember when using any product is that too much can make your hair heavy and limp. Even a root volumizer can do more harm than good if you don’t use it correctly.

So, how can you ensure your lifting product gives you full hair instead of limp locks? The first step is to look at the directions.

Apply at the Right Time

You should apply some lifters, such as mousses and lotions, to wet hair. On the other hand, sprays and powders can be used no matter what condition your hair is in.

If you apply to wet hair, make sure you towel dry first. Using a towel removes excess moisture and adds a little texture, thereby creating more volume.

Move From Roots to Tips

You should always apply lifters starting at your roots and working your way outward. The hair near your roots is the oiliest and, therefore, needs the most help. If you apply most of the product on the ends, you won’t get the effect you’re looking for.

Massage the Product In

Root lifters aren’t meant to sit on strands’ surfaces — you need to work them in. So once you apply the product, make sure you massage it into your hair.

Now that you know how to use a root volumizer, you can get the full, bouncy hair of your dreams. If you want to learn more about styling and caring for your hair, you can visit the Beauty Resource Center on LaLa Daisy’s website.