I dry my hair and set with large rollers. After, I lightly spray with this mist. Anything else shows too much build-up. This is the only hair spray I've ever used that elicited compliments on how nice I smell. To get a strong hold (I live in a windy area), I have to use a stronger finishing spray, so I'd take 1/2 point off, but otherwise, I've been as pleased with this mist as with anything else (more or less expensive) that I've tried. The price is reasonable, too.