When discussing hair, people often focus on two primary types: curly and straight. It’s common to hear someone with naturally straight hair express a desire for bouncy, curly locks, while a curly-haired friend might envy the straight, sleek look. However, what about wavy hair? Wavy hair occupies a middle ground, neither perfectly straight nor curly, and is sometimes overlooked in conversations about hair care and styling.
Contrary to the assumption that those with naturally wavy hair wake up with effortlessly styled locks, wavy hair often requires some attention. Additionally, wavy hair can be categorized into three types: type 2A, the straightest with subtle waves; type 2B, wavier and prone to frizz; and type 2C, thicker and more voluminous than the other two (according to All Things Hair). If you fall into any of these categories, you have wavy locks, and we have some styling tips for you.
1. Use a Comb or Brush in the Shower
While it’s a common practice to brush or comb hair after a shower, consider doing this while you’re still in the shower. Mara Roszak, a celebrity hairstylist and salon owner, recommends combing through your hair after applying conditioner but before rinsing it out. After rinsing, give your wet hair another brush to remove any tangles. This helps prevent tangles, a common issue for people with wavy hair, once you step out of the shower.
One brand known for detangling hair effectively is Tangle Teezer. The Ultimate Detangler brush, priced at around $15, is an excellent choice for shower use due to its specialized teeth technology. Additionally, they offer the Large Size Ultimate Detangler for under $20, which is ideal for longer and thicker locks.
2. Prioritize Hydration
Regardless of your specific wavy hair type, hydration is key. Faith Xue, Executive Beauty Director of BDG, emphasizes the importance of hydration for her type 2A hair. On the other hand, Hannah Baxter, Deputy Beauty Editor of The Zoe Report, mentions using moisturizing products for her 2A and 2B waves. Thus, focusing on hydration seems to be a common theme among successful women in the beauty content editing industry.
There are numerous hydrating hair products to explore, so it’s worth experimenting to find what works best for you. One option is Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk Moisturizing 4-in-1 Combing Creme, available at Walmart for less than $15 and boasting a rating of 4.4 out of five stars based on 200 reviews.
3. Consider Your Hair Length and Style
While personal preference should guide your choice of hair length and style, some haircuts complement wavy locks exceptionally well. Layered hairstyles are known to be flattering for individuals with natural waves, according to L’Oréal Paris. Lob haircuts offer a chic, low-maintenance option, while pixie and bixie cuts are fun and require minimal styling. Bangs can also add a stylish touch to wavy tresses.
Blunt haircuts can also look stunning with wavy hair, maintaining the focus on your waves. Annagjid “Kee” Taylor, a celebrity hairstylist, suggests that this simple and modest haircut serves as a low-maintenance style that’s perfect for those who prefer a minimalistic look. Whether you opt for a mid-length, super short, layered, or blunt haircut, your waves can shine. Instagram has over six million posts dedicated to #wavyhair, offering inspiration on how different lengths and styles pair with wavy tresses.
4. Divide Your Hair Into Sections When Styling
Styling routines and techniques may vary for people with wavy hair, but regardless of the products you use, dividing your hair into sections while styling is a wise practice. This prevents overwhelming your waves and helps you keep track of which areas still need styling. It’s frustrating to invest time and effort into styling your hair only to discover a missed spot, which can disrupt the overall look.
Classic hair ties can be used to divide your hair, or you can opt for professional styling clips designed for this purpose. Kitsch Styling Clips, for example, are convenient and available for $8 at Ulta Beauty, with a rating of 4.3 stars. Regardless of your choice, dividing your hair during styling is beneficial, especially for those with long locks.
5. Scrunch in Mousse for Wavy Hair
Many people use mousse to style their wavy locks, but the application method can make a significant difference. Instead of patting it on or applying it in a pulling motion, consider scrunching the mousse into your hair. This scrunching technique enhances your waves rather than working against them. Remember to be gentle with your hair, even when in a hurry.
An ideal mousse for wavy hair is Suave Simply Styled Wave Mousse, available for approximately $5 at Walmart. This affordable product effectively handles frizz without weighing down your waves and boasts a rating of 4.1 stars based on over 300 reviews. Whether you have type 2A, 2B, or 2C hair, trying a wave mousse can do wonders for your look.
6. Don’t Wash Your Hair Every Day
The debate about how often to wash your hair is ongoing among beauty enthusiasts. However, it’s generally accepted that you shouldn’t wash your hair daily. For individuals with wavy hair, WavyHairCare.com recommends washing every third to fourth day. This approach keeps your hair clean without subjecting it to excessive washing, which can be damaging.
Avoiding daily hair washing applies not only to wavy hair but also to overall hair health. Frequent washing with harsh cleansers can disrupt the skin’s microbiome, potentially leading to scalp issues. So, consider this as a sign to reduce your hair washing frequency. It not only saves you time but also promotes healthier hair.