A wavy hair routine sits between the routines for straight and curly hair. Wavy hair needs more moisture than straight hair, but it is easily weighed down by the rich creams made for tight curls. With the right balance, waves become more even and frizz calms down.
How wavy hair behaves
- Waves form an S shape, often flatter at the roots and looser underneath.
- The pattern is easily brushed out or pulled straight by heavy products.
- Frizz appears when the hair is dry or handled a lot while drying.
- Waves often look different from one day to the next.
Wavy hair is often grouped as 2A (soft, loose waves), 2B (clearer S-shapes) and 2C (strong waves with some curls). See How to Find Your Hair Type to check your pattern.
Wash day, step by step
- Cleanse. Use a gentle shampoo on the scalp. Wash every two to four days, or as your scalp needs.
- Condition. Apply conditioner from mid-length to the ends. Detangle with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb while the conditioner is in.
- Rinse, leaving the hair smooth but not slippery.
- Apply styling products to wet hair. Waves set as they dry, so products go on before the hair starts to dry.
- Scrunch. Cup the ends in your palms and press upwards towards the scalp several times.
- Remove water by scrunching with a cotton T-shirt or microfibre towel.
- Dry in the air or with a diffuser, without touching the hair.
- Break the cast. If gel has dried stiff, scrunch gently with dry hands to soften it.
Choosing products
| Product | What it does for waves | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Light leave-in conditioner | Adds slip and moisture | Use a small amount on the ends |
| Mousse | Gives lift and light hold | Good for fine waves |
| Light gel | Holds the pattern and limits frizz | Apply with flat palms, then scrunch |
| Curl cream | Softens and defines | Use sparingly; too much pulls waves straight |
| Sea salt spray | Adds texture | Can be drying if used often |
Start with one styler. If your waves fall flat by midday, try less product or a lighter one. Curl Cream vs Hair Gel: Hold, Texture, and Finish compares curl cream and gel.
Drying with a diffuser
- Use low heat and low speed.
- Hover the diffuser around the hair until it is about half dry.
- Then cup sections in the diffuser and lift them towards the scalp for a few seconds each.
- Stop when the hair is nearly dry and let the rest dry in the air.
Reducing frizz
- Do not brush dry waves. Detangle only when the hair is wet and conditioned.
- Keep your hands off while it dries.
- Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase, or in a loose high bun held by a soft scrunchie.
- Use a heat protectant when you use hot tools.
- Trim regularly. Layers often help waves to spring up.
Humidity is a special case. See Hair Care in Humid Weather: Tips for Managing Frizz.
Refreshing waves on day two
- Mist the hair lightly with water.
- Smooth a small amount of leave-in or diluted gel over frizzy sections.
- Scrunch and let it dry, or diffuse for a few minutes.
If waves are flat at the crown, clip the roots up while they dry.
Common mistakes
- Using heavy butters and oils made for coily hair.
- Applying products to hair that has already started to dry.
- Rubbing the hair with a rough towel.
- Expecting every wave to match. Variation is normal.
If your waves tighten into spirals with this method, you may be closer to curly. Try Curly Hair Routine: A Step-by-Step Guide. For a comparison of styling products, see Hair Styling Products: Mousse, Gel, Cream, and Spray.
Related on ArniSun
- How to Find Your Hair Type
- Curly Hair Routine: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Hair Care in Humid Weather: Tips for Managing Frizz
- Curl Cream vs Hair Gel: Hold, Texture, and Finish
- Hair Styling Products: Mousse, Gel, Cream, and Spray
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Should wavy hair be brushed?
Only when wet and coated with conditioner. Brushing dry wavy hair separates the wave clumps and causes frizz.
Why are my waves flat on top?
The weight of the hair and of products pulls the roots straight. Use lighter products, clip the roots up while drying, and consider layers.
How often should I wash wavy hair?
Every two to four days suits many people. Wash more often if your scalp is oily, and less if your hair feels dry.