Got wavy hair and not sure how to keep it healthy and shiny? You've come to the right place. Wavy hair is a unique hair type that falls between curly and straight hair and as such, it has its unique needs and needs extra love and care to remain healthy.
In this article, we’ll break down all you need to know about caring for wavy hair. Keep reading to learn how to create your ultimate wavy hair routine.
The Unique Characteristics Of Wavy Hair
Wavy hair, also known as type 2 hair, sits between straight and curly as a result of its unique features. It is usually straight at the root but transforms into S-shaped waves that can appear from the middle of the hair or at the ends. However, the degree of waviness can vary with each person, which is why wavy hair is categorised into three groups. Knowing your type of wavy hair will help you better understand how to care for your hair and keep it healthy.
Wavy Hair Types
2A
2A waves feature the least defined wavy pattern. This hair type sports soft and subtle waves that appear at the ends of the hair while the roots are straight. 2A hair is also usually fine and is easily weighed down by heavy products
2B
2B hair features thicker, more defined waves that appear from the middle of the hair down to the ends. This hair type is usually more prone to frizz
2C
2C waves feature tighter waves that almost appear to be loose curls; the waves start at the roots and extend down the length of the hair. This hair type is usually very thick and can appear coarse when it is not properly hydrated.
How To Style And Care For Wavy
Don't Go Overboard With Shampoo
Wavy hair has some similar characteristics to straight hair, but it is important to note that it is not straight hair. Because of your S-shaped waves, the natural oils in your scalp do not travel down your strands, your hair shaft as easily as they do in straight hair, so this means your hair can get easily dry and frizzy. Shampooing your hair too often can make it dry and frizzy, so do not overdo it. Wash your hair once a week with hydrating shampoo like our Manuka Honey Hydration Shampoo and follow up with our Moisture Rich Conditioner to smooth and soften your hair.
Deep Condition As Often As You Can
Incorporating a deep conditioner into your routine can help to further hydrate your hair and combat dryness and frizz. So be sure to do it regularly with a deeply nourishing and strengthening formula like our Manuka Honey Deep Conditioning Hair Mask at least 2-3 times a month. After applying the deep conditioner, follow up with a leave-in conditioner for an extra boost of nourishment and moisture.
Scrunching Your Hair Is Essential
Scrunching your wavy hair after applying your styling products is extremely important for achieving well-defined waves that last all day. After styling with a hair defining styler like our Flaxseed Oil & Rosewater Curling Mousse or the Curl Activating Smoothie, squeeze your hair from the ends towards your scalp to prevent downward stretching of your hair and encourage more definition.
Use Lightweight Styling Products
Wavy hair can be easily weighed down when loaded with too many products, so using lightweight formulas is very crucial. Everything from your moisturiser to your styling products needs to be something that can be easily absorbed into the strands, which is why our Everyday Curl Refresh Spray, Curling Mousse, and Curl Activating Smoothie are perfect for all wavy hair types. If you use heavier products that are too thick, the hair will lose its bounce and start to appear greasy and limp.
You Need To Protect Yourself Before Going To Bed
To prevent your waves from getting frizzy and rough while you sleep, protecting your hair with a satin or silk bonnet before going to bed is very important. Doing this will stop any friction from your bedding and help keep your hair hydrated and smooth for longer.
Pixie Diffusing Is Your Secret Weapon
If you have 2A and 2B waves that struggle with definition, especially at the middle and roots of your hair, pixie diffusing is going to be a game changer for you. This hair drying technique involves the hair being scooped up into the diffuser cup to direct the airflow directly up the hair shaft and dry the hair in a compressed position to create more definition and outward volume. It is an amazing way to combat the downward pull and stretch that often gets in the way of proper definition when your hair is wet.
Limit Heat Styling
When you have wavy hair it can be very tempting to always reach for a flat iron or a curling iron to straighten your hair or enhance your curls. However, this can easily result in a lot of heat damage and lead to split ends over time. Try to limit your use of heat to no more than once every few weeks to keep your hair healthy. Additionally, when you are using heat, be sure to apply a heat protectant first to avoid damaging your hair.
Refresh Your Hair To Maintain Your Waves
Wavy hair may not get as dry as curly hair but it can still lose moisture pretty easily. If your hair is left dry without any moisture for too long, it will become frizzy and rough. So, refreshing your hair with our Everyday Curl Refresh Spray once or twice a week is very important.
Seal Your Hair With An Oil Or Serum
If you have 2B and 2C waves, your hair can easily get frizzy and rough. Which is why sealing hydration into your hair with an oil or hair serum is very important. After applying a moisturiser and styling your hair, follow up with our Hair & Scalp Oil to help lock moisture into your hair and prevent frizz. The oil also helps keep your hair shiny and smooth, so even if you have 2A waves, this is still a good step to incorporate into your routine.
So, there you have it, the basic routine you need to keep your wavy hair healthy and happy. Follow the tips we've discussed in this article and you'll get the flawless shiny waves every day.