Natural Ways to Wave Your Hair
Non-Damaging and Old-Fashioned Methods to Achieve Wavy Hair
Oct 26, 2009
Wavy hair is the perfect in-between texture for a hairstyle that has some body and texture, but isn't too high-maintenance. Crimping irons create very uniform waves, but dry hair out even when used with heat protectant. Old-fashioned methods such as bun and braid waves require some time and planning, but are simple and non-damaging.
How to Give Your Hair Braid Waves
Braid waves are the two-dimensional (“zig-zag”) waves imprinted in tightly-braided hair. To make braid waves that last, dampen hair several hours before you want the waves – overnight works well – and braid firmly. One large braid makes large, loose waves that fall out easily; more braids make smaller, tighter waves with more “hold”. Too many braids produces a frizzy effect – think of how hair looks when cornrows are removed – so don't go above six or eight if you're aiming for sleek hair.
A French-type braid that starts from the forehead will produce texture all over the head; an English braid will only produce wavy hair from the nape of the neck down. Make sure your hair is thoroughly detangled before braiding, as brushing it after it is unbraided will make the waves frizz or disappear. Certain textures of hair hold waves better than others; if yours needs a little help, use a gentle mousse before braiding or a light-hold hair spray after braiding.
How to Give Your Hair Bun Waves
Bun waves are more three-dimensional than braid waves, although usually too gentle and loose to be called “spiral” waves. The effect is what happens to damp hair that has been left to dry in a cinnabun and then let loose. As with braid waves, some hair may need a touch of spray or mousse to hold the waves.
A large sock bun also produces lovely fat bun waves.
How to Achieve Spiral Waves With a Rope Braid
Another gentle “spiral” wave effect can be made by twisting damp hair into one or several rope braids. When dry, unbraid the hair.
Combing Waves Into Short Hair
For a 1940s look on very short hair, comb a mousse or gel product through your hair and then use a comb to firmly mark a wave pattern in the hair. This look takes practice to get right, but can result n a very chic, sleek, close-to-the-head wave pattern reminisceny of a 1940s starlet.
Tips for Achieving Wavy Hair
- If your waves are made with braids, curl the ends of the hair a little as the braids dry. Otherwise the last few inches of your hair will be straight, producing a rather unusual effect! Some people simply twist the tail of the braid around a finger; others need to secure the curl around a fat pen lid or similar object.
- Bun waves generally look more natural than braid waves.
- Using an unusual type of braid such as a crown braid gives the waves a less uniform appearance, making them look less obviously like braid waves.
- Different hair textures will respond differently to waves. If waves slip out of your hair, experiment with different products, using day-old instead of clean hair, thoroughly wetting your hair before braiding or bunning, and leaving the braids or bun in for longer.
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