Body + Mind is reader-supported. We may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through some of the links on our site.
If your hair isn’t straight, curly or kinky, it’s wavy! Though gorgeous, natural waves can be a little tricky to manage. You may envision glossy, bouncy layers but end up with a frizzy mess. It’s essential to know how to take care of your hair so that it’s healthy and vibrant.
Here are a few tips to follow so that your waves can shine.
All hair types need moisture, but those with wavy hair need to prioritize hydration more than people with straight hair. Many women like to use heat on their hair, which can cause damage and dryness – and no one wants to deal with a flaky scalp.
When you’re on the hunt for hair care products, be sure to choose ones that nourish your waves. Look for ingredients like coconut oil, aloe vera and shea butter. You don’t need to buy a hair moisturizer specifically. When you need a new shampoo or conditioner, check the labels to ensure that it can provide enough hydration.
It’s also necessary to search for sulfate-free options. As always, the gentler, the better.
Unlike straight hair, wavy hair can become tangled rather quickly. After you wash your hair, it’s not easy to comb through it without a hair oil or spray. Plus, a tool like a brush can make your waves look a little thin. If you want to prevent breakage, try to use your fingers instead!
Run your fingers through your hair to gently work out knots. This movement also pushes your hair together so that your waves look fuller. If you let your hair air dry with an air-dry cream, you can preserve that volumized look and prevent any potential frizziness.
Sometimes, a new technique works best to make your hair look new. Even though you have natural waves, it’s still possible for them to look flat and lifeless. You could use styling tools, but it’s always a good idea to go for heat-free options. Here’s a trick to bring back that bounce, otherwise known as “squish to condish.”
Once you wash your hair with shampoo, disperse a little conditioner into your palm. Use your hands to apply the conditioner as you squish your hair. Make sure that your hair is wet since you want to squish until it’s damp.
Here’s a tip that requires almost no effort at all. Standard pillowcase materials like cotton and linen can tug your hair at night. You can also wake up with slight creases across your skin, which could lead to wrinkles. That’s why you may want to consider a switch to a silk pillowcase. They can help your natural waves look and feel luxurious.
Though there are many silk pillowcases on the market, it’s important to know to look for silk rather than satin. Both can smooth the hair and skin, but silk is a natural fiber, so it’s hypoallergenic.
A regular cotton towel isn’t the smartest option for natural waves, let alone all hair types. This material can tug and pull at your hair so that you end up with a lot of frizz. Remember, it’s always essential to choose the simplest options for your hair. You can use a microfiber towel instead.
Switch out your normal towels for a microfiber alternative. They’re far more gentle, so they won’t create the friction that causes frizz – and that’s always a win. You can also try an old t-shirt if you don’t want to spend any money.
With a few simple changes to your routine, you can have the best waves of your life.
Your email address will only be used to send you our newsletter, and at any time you may unsubscribe. For more information, see our Privacy Policy.