You may think that if you have curly hair you can't get waves, but that's not the case.You can train your hair to create waves, but it may take several months to see the results.If you are going for this style, you will need to spend a lot of time brushing and maintaining your hair, but it will be worth it in the end.
Step 1: Determine your hair type to find out if you have a natural wave.
If you grow your hair out, you can see if it has a natural wave to it.It can be nearly impossible to wave if you have true type 1 hair.This type of hair has no curve to it when allowed to dry naturally.When it air dries, your hair has a slight wave.It might only have waves in the ends rather than the roots.This type of hair is wavy all over and prone to frizz, but the roots may still lay flat when they dry naturally.Your hair is wavy from top to bottom, making it hard to get a straight style.This type of hair has a definite pattern throughout and holds an "S" shape.You may not be able to get the waves to work if you have type 1, 2a, 2b, or 2c hair.If your hair is at least a 3a, you will have better luck.
Step 2: A medium wave brush is a good investment.
The hard brushes will ruin any waves you have going on if they pull your straight hair too much.You can buy a medium wave brush for $10-15 at your local beauty or cosmetics store.Look for one that will fit in your hand.You should look for a brush with bristles.Synthetic bristles can tear, split, or damage your hair.If the brush irritates your hair, try a softer brush.
Step 3: From the crown of your head, brush forward 50 times.
If you want to get the best results, cover the entire front of your head.When brushing your hair, you force it into a wave pattern so that it will stay in place.Finding a way to fit hair brushing into your schedule is important because it will become a big part of your daily routine.Do it during the commercial breaks if you watch TV every night.Try to brush your hair in the same pattern.If you want to brush from the crown of your head down at a slant the next day, you should not do it straight forward.
Step 4: You can create waves in the back by brushing from your crown to the nape of your neck.
This is also done 50 times.It is easy to miss a patch when you are working on an area that is hard to see, so make sure to use a mirror if you need to.Many people neglect to form waves in the back because it can be harder to reach.You should brush your hair the same way every time.The bristles will do most of the wave-forming work for you, but you must be consistent with the direction in which you brush every single time.
Step 5: You can complete the regimen by brushing the sides of your hair.
On each side of your head, make 50 brush strokes.If you want the brush to be pointed toward your chin, angle the strokes downward.If you have straight hair, it may take up to 6 weeks to see waves.Some people are lucky and have success after a few days, but you may need to be more patient.
Step 6: You should brush your hair at least 3 times a day.
The more you brush your hair, the more defined your waves will be.Each time you brush your hair, aim to hit the 50-stroke mark on the top, back, and sides of your head.It's okay if you miss a day.Pick up your brushing routine the next day.
Step 7: You should keep up your brushing regimen.
You need to brush your waves several times a day to keep them in top shape.They could go back to their natural look if you don't.Even with straight hair, you can hopefully develop some awesome waves with patience and commitment.
Step 8: Don't run your hands through your hair.
All the brushwork you have done will be undone if you put your fingers through your hair.It is important to leave your hair alone when brushing or washing it.
Step 9: You should wear a durag at night to protect your hair.
From the beginning of your wave development, use the durag.The silk durag has the best results.If there are any seams on the outside of the durag, make sure they are not visible in your hair.If you are concerned about the durag coming undone in the night, use a fabric headband.They are also called wave caps.Don't forget to wash your durag.It can have a build up of product.It should be in tiptop condition once a week.
Step 10: You should visit a hairdresser every 2 weeks to get your hair cut.
If you want your hair cut in layers, tell the barber or hairdresser that you are working on developing waves.The illusion of waves can be made to look more defined.If you don't know what a wave is, find someone who does.The right hairdresser can help people with straight hair.
Step 11: You should wash your hair.
It's a good idea to comb or brush your hair before you wash it.If you want to clean your hair, wash it twice.There are some brands that are specifically made for waves.You could use a hair product.
Step 12: If you have to clean your hair between washes, co-wash it.
If your hair needs to be washed every 3-4 days, just use a conditioner.This will remove grease and dirt, but it won't remove the oils that your waves need to stay healthy.Remember to use sulfate and paraben-free products.
Step 13: You can encourage those waves by brushing your hair in the shower.
It is less likely to break when your hair is wet.Follow the routine you use throughout the day with your wave brush.Before you use your wave brush on dry hair, let it dry completely.There is a separate brush in the shower for wet brushing.
Step 14: After you shower, apply a curl enhancer.
When you get out of the shower, you need to use some kind of product to keep your hair moist.Spread enhancer or conditioner evenly through your hair by using your fingers.If you like all natural beauty products, you could use sweet almond oil, olive oil or an all-natural pomade.
Step 15: It's a good idea to use a natural moisturizer on your waves 1-2 times per week.
There are pomades and hair creams that don't have petrol in them.Depending on how dry your hair gets between washes, you may want to use a moisturizer every 3-4 days to keep your waves in place.Natural oils such as shea butter, coconut oil, and olive oil are gentle on your hair.It is not the look you are going for if you use moisturizer too often.