Having beautiful wavy hair is a blessing. However, maintaining it healthy and shiny can be challenging until you add the proper steps to your wavy hair routine.
It is relatively easy to tame your wavy locks and enhance their natural beauty. In fact, you will enjoy the process if you have the right tools and products.
Wavy hair is often considered different from curly hair due to its subtle curl pattern and unruly straight hair that must be flat ironed to straighten. It is a hair type that falls between curly and straight.
Natural S-shaped waves, moderate volume, touchable texture, and frizz-prone tendencies characterize wavy hair. Unlike other types of hair, it is less prone to damage. However, it tends to face challenges when it comes to oil distribution.
Let’s explore the typical characteristics of wavy hair that will help us learn wavy hair routines.
- S-shaped waves: Wavy hair typically forms natural and loose S-shaped waves that run from the roots to the tips. These S-shaped waves can differ in size and intensity.
- Volume: This type of hair is distinguished by more volume, especially when compared to straight hair. The natural texture and lift created by the waves give the hair more volume and a fuller appearance.
- Texture: Wavy hair is usually soft with a nice and touchable texture. The texture can be fine, medium, or coarse, depending on the individual’s hair type.
- Frizz-prone: Unlike other types of hair, wavy hair is more prone to frizz in humid and damp conditions. Managing frizz can be a common challenge.
- Oil distribution: The waves might make it difficult for the natural oil to travel down from the hair shaft. This results in the scalp getting oily and the tip remains dry, making proper hair care essential for maintaining a healthy balance.
- Less prone to damage: Wavy hair is less likely to get damaged than curly hair. The waves provide natural protection and help to prevent friction and breakage. However, it is essential to remember that it can still get damaged if you do heat styling improperly.
What Is a Good Hair Routine for Wavy Hair?
While each wave type has its own needs, establishing a wash care routine and to maintain all wavy hair is the key.
1. Washing
The first step of a wavy hair routine is to wash your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo (or clarifying shampoo) if you are prone to build up. While washing, try massaging the scalp for at least 60 seconds.
Remember, sulfates are drying and can be irritating to the scal. They make the hair curly by lifting the cuticles.
2. Detangling
Detangling wavy hair is very different from detangling straight hair. Aggressive or harsh detangling using a small-toothed comb may add damage unnecessarily.
To detangle your wavy hair, use a wide-toothed comb with larger spaces between its teeth or your fingers. This will help glide through the hair without tugging and reducing breakage.
3. Conditioning
Conditioning restores the hair with essential amino acids by forming a protective barrier to protect wavy hair against any breakage. Conditioner provides shine and improves the overall texture of wavy hair, making it softer and manageable.
4. Moisturizing
Adding extra moisture to wavy hair is essential because it is prone to dryness, breakage, and lack of shine. You can incorporate a moisturizing hair mask into your routine. Increase or decrease the frequency as necessary. You can also apply a light hair oil to moisturize your hair.
5. Drying
Freshly washed hair can be dried in two ways- air drying or diffusing. Opt for air drying if you are not in a hurry or want to avoid volume. Use a hair dryer for fast drying and adding volume to your wavy hair.
Before drying, use a towel or a cotton t-shirt to absorb the excess water from your hair.
6. Styling
Styling products on wavy hair should not be heavy or oil-laden. It can give the waves a greasy look and make them lose their shape. Use water-based gels, mousse, and lightweight serums that will help define the hair.
How to Protect and Maintain Wavy Hair?
Make sure that you protect your hair while you sleep. You can avoid putting tension on your hair and scalp using a satin, silk pillow, or scrunchie. Pull your hair into a high ponytail using a silk scrunchie to hold the hair in place without unnecessary tension.
Follow the steps to maintain wavy locks-
- Always comb wavy hair with a wide-toothed comb or fingers.
- Hair oil is a vital product for taming frizz and flyaways. It provides shine and hydration and also improves elasticity to prevent breakage.
- Regular trims are necessary for all hair types. It helps reduce frizz at the end of your hair, keeping it looking and feeling healthier.
- Incorporate any scalp treatment products into your routine once or twice a week. It supports the scalp’s microbiome and promotes overall scalp health.
Image Source : Canva
Conclusion
When it comes to styling, wavy hair is gorgeous and adaptable. It can hold curls well and straighten easily. Also, it reflects light well, giving it a natural shine and glow.
Even though it may look daunting and require a little patience to incorporate the proper wavy hair routine, once you start, it is totally worth it.
