How to Style Lisa Rinna’s Signature Hairstyle: A Step-by-Step Guide

Overview and Key Characteristics

Lisa Rinna’s signature hairstyle is a sleek, high-volume blowout with a polished center part, smooth mid-lengths, and softly tapered ends. The look combines strong root lift, defined layers, and medium-to-finish hold to maintain movement without frizz. It balances retro Hollywood glamour with modern wearability, making it suitable for both special events and everyday professional settings. Key attributes include balanced face-framing, a smooth crown, and controlled side-swept bangs.

Essential Tools and Products

Having the right tools and products ensures control over volume, smoothness, and hold. A high-quality round brush, vented paddle brush, and dual-voltage hair dryer with a concentrator nozzle are foundational. Additional tools include a claw clip for sectioning, a wide-tooth comb, and a heat protectant spray. For long-lasting results, use a lightweight mousse at the roots, a shine serum for mid-lengths to ends, and a flexible-hold hairspray.

• Round brush (boar bristle or mixed bristles) for smoothing and volume
• Paddle brush for detangling and straight sections
• Hairdryer with multiple heat settings and a cool shot button
• Heat protectant spray or cream
• Lightweight mousse or foam for root lift
• Shine serum or lightweight oil for mid-lengths to ends
• Flexible-hold hairspray

Preparation: Cleansing and Conditioning

Start with freshly washed hair for the best slip and longevity. Use a gentle sulfate-free shampoo to remove buildup without stripping natural oils. Apply a moisturizing conditioner from mid-lengths to ends, avoiding the scalp to prevent excess oil. Rinse thoroughly with cool water to help seal the cuticle and enhance shine. Towel-dry gently with a microfiber towel or a clean cotton T-shirt to reduce frizz before blow-drying.

Step-by-Step Styling Process

Sectioning and Applying Products

Divide towel-dried hair into four sections using a wide-tooth comb and claw clip: top, left side, right side, and nape. Apply a golf-ball-sized amount of mousse to the roots of each section, focusing on the crown and front hairline for lift. Follow with a heat protectant spray throughout, and apply a small amount of shine serum to the mid-lengths and ends. This layering prevents frizz while adding control and reflective finish.

Blow-Drying for Volume and Smoothness

Using a round brush, lift a one-inch section of hair at the crown and dry with medium heat, rolling the brush upward to create tension and lift. Keep the hair dryer moving with a concentrator nozzle for focused airflow, reducing heat exposure. Once the root area is set, glide the brush through to the ends to smooth the cuticle. Repeat section by section, ensuring each layer is completely dry before moving to the next.

Setting the Part and Bangs

After full drying, create a precise center part using the tail comb. For side-swept bangs, brush them to the desired sweep and secure with a soft-hold hairspray or a small amount of pomade. Use a paddle brush to smooth any flyaways along the hairline and near the ears, maintaining a polished outline.

Finishing Touches and Maintenance

Lightly mist the entire head with a flexible-hold hairspray, focusing on the roots and areas prone to fall. Avoid over-spraying to preserve natural movement. Throughout the day, refresh volume at the roots with a cool shot from the dryer or a touch dry shampoo. To maintain longevity, avoid over-washing and use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction.

Variations and Adaptations

The Lisa Rinna hairstyle can be adjusted for different face shapes and hair textures. For fine hair, add volumizing mousse at the roots and use a smaller round brush for tighter lift. Those with thicker hair may benefit from layering the ends to reduce bulk and improve airflow during drying. A softer part can create a more modern look, while a deep side part offers a more classic appearance. Short on time? Focus on root lift and finish with a quick-pass dryer and serum for a polished effect.

• Fine hair: double-layer mousse at roots, smaller brush
• Thick hair: texturize ends, use lower heat, and finish with serum
• Time-saving: partial blow-dry at roots, finish with targeted dryer use
• Face shape considerations: softer parts for square faces, side-swept bangs for round faces

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overloading products can weigh hair down and create a greasy appearance. Applying heat without protection leads to surface damage and frizz. Rushing the drying process often results in uneven volume and limp sections. To avoid these issues, work in small sections, allow each layer to dry fully, and use tension with the brush to encourage smooth cuticles. Clarify hair monthly to remove buildup that can dull styling results.

Product Recommendations and Hair Health Notes

Select products based on your hair type and sensitivity. Lightweight mousses and root sprays provide lift without stiffness. Silicone-free shine serums reduce frizz while preserving natural movement. Alcohol-free flexible-hold hairsprays offer lasting hold without flaking. For ongoing health, incorporate weekly protein or moisture treatments based on your hair’s needs, and trim split ends every 6–8 weeks to maintain a polished blowout.

Conclusion and Long-Term Styling Tips

Mastering Lisa Rinna’s hairstyle is achievable with consistent technique, proper tools, and suitable products. Focus on root lift, controlled drying, and a polished finish to replicate the look efficiently. Regular trims, clarifying washes, and heat protection support both style success and hair health. Use this guide as a foundation for adapting the style to your hair type, face shape, and daily routine, ensuring lasting results and confidence in the look.