I smooth the product on first, then scrunch (I call it scrunching even when wet, some call it squishing). I graze my hands over the surface only before scrunching. You may have to do this in sections to get all your hair. I have to be careful not to put too much product on the front sides or top, or it will be way too crunchy (stiff). My hair is somewhat fine and not very voluminous, so depending on your hair's texture, your mileage may vary. HTH
