How to Make Natural Waves in Your Hair

Whether you’re looking for a textured look that’s polished and frizz-free, or just want to add some extra oomph to your mane, there are plenty of ways to create natural waves in your hair. The best part is that you don’t have to spend a fortune or have super-thick hair to get this look.

The first step to making natural waves is to find the right hair cut. If you have fine hair, a shorter haircut that doesn’t weigh your waves down is key to showing off their texture without looking flat.

You can also try a short layered haircut to naturally amp up your wave pattern. It’s a great way to make your waves stand out and keep them looking full and healthy throughout the day.

Another tip to make your waves look their best is to wash them with moisturizing shampoos and conditioners, says Spino. She recommends opting for sulfate-free shampoos to prevent them from feeling dry and frizzy and to help your waves look fresh and smooth.

Once you’ve washed your hair, apply a leave-in conditioner to damp hair. These lightweight formulas are infused with hydrating ingredients, like aloe vera and avocado oil, which will leave your locks feeling soft and smooth.

Before you curl, don’t be afraid to spray your hair with a heat protectant (Spino recommends this spray from Ouai). It helps to prevent damage and ensure that your style stays put throughout the day.

After you’ve done that, use a small clip to attach a curling ribbon on your hair and run it through your strands for a soft-looking wave that’s a little bit bouncier than a straight iron style. You can even scrunch your strands with your hands to achieve this look and then mist them with a light hairspray once they’ve dried.

Getting the perfect wavy style can be tricky, especially for those with thick or coarse hair. It’s also important to know how to enhance the look, so we asked a few gurus for their favorite products to add texture and dimension to your tresses.

One of the most popular methods to create a beachy wave is to spritz a sea salt spray throughout your mane and then scrunch your hair to give it that extra texture. The spray actually mimics the effects of sea salt on your strands, so it’s a great tool for creating a natural-looking wave.

If you’re not into a spritz, you can also curl your hair with a small curling iron. But be sure to always wear a cap or hat when using this technique, since it can cause your hair to dry out and become damaged from the heat.

Once your waves are curled, be sure to let them cool and dry completely before styling to give them the best chance of staying in place all day long. You can also mist them with a finishing spray to add more shine and hold.

The final step to getting the perfect waves is to brush them out once they’ve cooled, separating the curls so you have more of a natural-looking effect. This is a must-do for anyone who wants to achieve the most natural-looking beach waves possible, so it’s well worth the time.