You know how sometimes you just want your hair to feel like it has that “just out of the ocean” bounce? If you have a layered surfer haircut, you’re already halfway there, but what’s missing is the volume. Think of your hair like a good surfboard—it needs the right balance of waves and lift to really shine. Don’t worry, though! Adding volume to your layers isn’t as tricky as it sounds. In fact, with just a few simple tricks and products, you’ll be able to give your hair that gorgeous, full look without a lot of effort. Ready to bring your surfer cut to life? Let’s get started!

Boosting Volume at the Roots

One of the first places to add volume is at the roots. Why? Because the roots are the foundation of your hairstyle. If your roots are flat, no amount of styling will give you the bouncy, voluminous look you’re after. Here are a few easy ways to lift those roots and get your hair looking fuller:

1. Root-Lifting Sprays and Mousses

These products are the superheroes of the volume world. A root-lifting spray or mousse adds instant lift and texture. Simply apply a small amount to damp hair, focusing on the roots, and then blow-dry. The best part? These products don’t weigh down your hair, which is exactly what you want when you’re trying to achieve a lightweight, surfer-inspired look.

2. Blow-Drying Upside Down

It might feel a little silly, but trust me—this trick works wonders. By flipping your head upside down while you dry, gravity helps to lift the roots. You can use your hands or a round brush to add even more volume. The result? Hair that’s full of life and movement.

3. The Power of Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo isn’t just for those days when you can’t wash your hair. It’s also a great way to add volume to your roots, especially when your hair starts to get a little flat. Just sprinkle or spray it onto the roots, then massage it in. Not only will it refresh your hair, but it will also give it that extra oomph you need.

Layering and Cutting Strategies for Maximum Volume

Now that you’ve tackled the roots, let’s talk about the layers themselves. One of the reasons surfer cuts are so popular is because they’re naturally layered, which gives the hair that fun, textured look. But if your layers are too heavy or uneven, they can end up looking flat instead of voluminous. Here’s how you can adjust your layers to maximize volume:

1. Layering Tips

When you’re going for a layered surfer haircut, be sure to ask your stylist to focus on creating lighter, choppier layers, as suggested on this site. These layers should be cut at angles to create movement, not to make your hair look too structured. The more uneven and textured the layers, the more natural volume you’ll get. If your layers are too blunt or too long, they can drag your hair down and make it look flat, so make sure to ask for soft, wispy layers that allow your hair to move freely.

2. Texturizing Scissors

Texturizing scissors aren’t just for shortening hair—they’re a great tool to add volume as well. These scissors are designed to thin out thicker sections of hair, creating a lighter, more airy texture. If your hair is particularly thick or heavy, texturizing scissors can help you avoid a bulky look and ensure that your layers stay full of bounce.

3. Choppy vs. Blunt Cuts

While a blunt cut can look chic, it often makes your hair look heavier and less voluminous. Choppy layers, however, allow your hair to move and breathe, creating the appearance of more volume. If you’re working with a layered surfer cut, ask your stylist to go for a more undone, beachy finish rather than a sharp, blunt edge.

The Secret of Salt and Sea Breeze

One of the most iconic aspects of a surfer’s hair is the natural texture that comes from the sea breeze. That’s why salt spray is a game-changer for adding volume and creating those beachy waves. Salt spray mimics the effect of ocean water, giving your hair texture, body, and a little bit of grit.

1. Sea Salt Spray

Spray a generous amount of sea salt spray onto damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Once applied, scrunch your hair with your hands to create waves. Let your hair air dry, or blow-dry with a diffuser for added texture. The salt in the spray will help lift your layers and give them that perfect beachy bounce.

2. DIY Sea Salt Spray

If you’re into DIY beauty, you can easily make your own sea salt spray at home. Mix a cup of warm water, a teaspoon of sea salt, and a few drops of coconut oil or argan oil for a light, hydrating finish. You’ll have your very own beach in a bottle that adds texture and volume.