You're Doing It Wrong: Hair Mousse

There is such a thing as too much of a good thing.

This is doubly true if you're talking about hair product. We get it: You want your style to stay put, so it stands to reason that more of any of your favorite product seemingly equals better results. Not the case, according to TRESemmé stylist John D—at least when you're dealing with hair mousse. "Mousse is tricky because it expands," explained the pro.

But just because mousse requires a certain finesse (John's favorite is TRESemmé TRES Two Extra-Firm Control Mousse), it doesn't mean that you should go without. "If you know how to use it, mousse is a great everyday foundational product because it provides grip and memory," urged the expert.

Use It to Prolong a Hairstyle: "Mousse should be applied to wet hair after you shower," spilled the pro. Why? It's the type of product that creates a memory and holds your style in place for days at a time. Translation: Less time in front of the mirror per week for you. "When your style is feeling dirty, just spritz in some TRESemmé Fresh Start Volumizing Dry Shampoo and the mousse helps pop the style back to life," he continued.

Where You Apply It Matters: A cardinal sin of using mousse (or any product, really) is applying it directly to your roots, which makes hair greasy and heavy. "Start from the underside [close to the nape of your neck] and work your way down toward the roots," then move up toward the front of your head as you go, advised the expert. In addition to not plopping a glob on the top of your head, remember this: Less is more. "Start with a little—a palm-sized amount—and add as you go," shared the expert.

You Can Use It for Most Styles: "I use mousse for all of my styles—from tousled undone waves to polished blowouts and braids," shared John D. The ultra-light product lends itself to most hair textures, particularly those in the thin to medium category. Not to mention, it'll help control hair without flattening out volume. "Don't be afraid to try it in your styling routine—the price point is affordable and, besides, practice makes perfect," encouraged the pro.