Bigger really is better, if the latest hair trend is anything to go by. “Bubble hair” is trending on TikTok and it’s all about va-va-voom volume all over, rather than just at the root; it’s swishy, thick, and unapologetically full-on.
It seems we’re all looking to give our hair some much needed gravity, with beauty retailer Space NK seeing searches for “volume” rise 30% year-over-year, and views for #hairvolume reaching 223 million on TikTok.
“When it comes to bubble hair, it’s all about adding width and height, creating the illusion of fullness and thicker locks,” hairstylist Syd Hayes tells Glamour. “Bubble hair is swishy, full, and thick and is rooted in the ’60s and ’70s, as well as the ’90s with the rise of supermodel hair.”
Hairstylist Sam McKnight agrees, noting that a great voluminous and full blow-dry never goes out of fashion. “There’s nothing more confidence-boosting than a big, bold and voluminous do,” he says. “It’s elevating in more ways than one; the ultimate mood booster. Voluminous hair does feel timeless. It exudes hair health, it feels good, it can make us feel powerful and full of confidence.”
So how can you get the look at home? Hayes says he’s constantly asked how to get volume by his clients and he recommends using a rotating hot brush like BaByliss Hydro Fusion Air Styler to create the illusion of bounce and volume, as well as glossy-looking shine.
McKnight, meanwhile, suggests a super-simple hack: Flip your parting—go from a middle to the side for instant volume. Need a quick instant lift and texture? After blowdrying with Sam McKnight’s Cool Girl Superlift Volumising Spray, twist your hair softly into a topknot onto the top of your head, secure with a clip or a soft silk band so it doesn’t dent, and leave it while you get ready; just before you head out the door, take it out. “Your hair has cooled from the warm hair dryer whilst up, and it gives a little wave, texture, and keeps the root lifted,” he says.
For some added oomph, flip your head upside down, give it a good brush from roots to ends and mist in Cool Girl Barely There Texture Mist and flip it back. “It’s my on-shoot instant hair hack for volume and thicker looking hair,” adds Sam.
Big hair, don’t care!