How to take care of wavy hair

This is a collaborative post: Do you have wavy hair, but you are unsure how to take care of it? Wavy hair always has an effortless look, but it does need maintenance and management to make it look its best.

With plenty of hair care tips and products for straight and curly hair, wavy hair falls somewhere between. We have gathered some information on how to care for wavy hair and the steps you should include in your wavy hair routine.

How to take care of your wavy hair

Taking care of waves is not complicated. A wide-tooth comb, quality hair products – like FFOR natural hair products – and air drying will have your hair looking amazing in no time.

Make sure to hydrate your strands

Waves tend to turn into frizz when dry. Keeping your hair hydrated will result in healthy hair and luscious waves.

The best way to hydrate your hair is to use a hydrating, sulfate-free shampoo that will not strip all the natural oils from your hair.

Apply conditioner

Waves are prone to breakage if not conditioned properly, which will make your hair look frizzy and dry.

By adding a deep conditioning treatment or leave-in conditioner, you will have more defined waves, fewer split ends, and more shine. Deep conditioning will also make thick wavy hair more manageable.

Apply conditioner by flipping your hair upside down and scrunching in the conditioner from the roots to your scalp.

Skip the blow dry

Hairdryers can cause heat damage by damaging your hair cuticles. Let your hair air dry, or wrap wet hair in a cotton t-shirt to add a bounce to your waves, reduce frizz, and add shine to your hair.

If you are in a rush, air dry your hair for as long as possible and quickly use a hairdryer on damp hair (about 70% dry), but make sure to use a heat-protectant spray.

Use a hair mask

The biggest problem for people with wavy hair is dryness. You should apply a hair mask once a week to control your hair, reduce split ends, and make the strands strong. You can either make a hair mask at home using products in your pantry or purchase a commercial hair mask. Look for masks that have keratin supporting properties.

How to protect your wavy hair

Here are some things to keep in mind if you want to protect your wavy hair from damage between washes and treatments.

• Regular washes are important but don’t wash your hair every day. This will strip many natural oils, leaving your scalp dry and hair brittle.
• If your hair looks dull between washes, use a mousse or hydrating spray to add volume to your hair and define your waves.
• If you want to use a straightener or curler, apply a heat-protective serum to your hair first.
• Use overnight hair masks, hair oil or leave-in hair serums before wash day to keep your hair hydrated. This is especially important if you are prone to dry hair.

How to style your waves

• For thinner hair, layers will add a lot of volume and define your curls more.
• Use a curling mousse and run your fingers through your damp hair for well-defined waves that will last the whole day.
• Use fabric hair ties or clips if tying up your hair to prevent breakages.

What to keep in mind when taking care of your wavy hair

• I don’t think there is a one-size-fits-all wavy hair routine. You will probably have to try out different products to find what works for you and your hair.
• Avoid combing hair when wet, and always try to use a wide-toothed comb to prevent breaking your hair. Start combing from the ends to remove knots and tangles gently.
• Understand that curly hair is different to wavy hair. This means that you will require different products depending on your hair type.
• Wash and rinse with cold or lukewarm water. Hot water will remove a lot of oil from your hair and damage hair.

Final Thoughts

Wavy hair can look effortless and beautiful, but you need to know how to take care of wavy hair to get the best results.

The most common problem that those with waves struggle with is dryness and frizz. This can be managed by including hydrating styling products in your hair care routine and avoiding activities that remove moisture from your hair.