You’ve likely come across the Curly Girl Method, a hair care regimen that swaps damaging washing and styling practices with healthier ones to maintain the beauty of curly hair. But what about if you don't have curly hair? Or if you're a 'wavy' person who has tried the Curly Girl Method but didn't achieve the desired results? Don't worry—these tips can help you adjust the Curly Girl Method for wavy hair.
Steps
Cleansing and Conditioning
Limit hair washing to 3-4 times a week. Excessive shampooing can dry out hair, especially curly hair. While wavy hair doesn't tend to get as dry as curly hair, reducing how often you shampoo can keep your hair healthy and shiny. Avoid daily washing and aim for 3-4 times per week.
- The Curly Girl Method typically suggests washing hair once weekly.
Opt for sulfate-free shampoos for a gentle cleanse. While the Curly Girl Method typically avoids shampoo altogether (known as 'no-poo') and opts for conditioner washing ('co-washing'), those with wavy hair can benefit from using sulfate-free shampoo. Look for gentle options that clean without stripping moisture.
- Sulfates are drying regardless of hair texture. Check labels for 'sulfate-free' and avoid ingredients like 'sodium lauryl sulfate' and 'sodium lauroyl taurate'.
Try clarifying shampoo monthly to remove buildup. Although the Curly Girl Method advises against clarifying shampoos due to sulfates, occasional use can benefit wavy hair. Use once a month for optimal results.
Scrunch conditioner for better hydration and definition. Wavy hair requires less product than curly hair. Scrunching helps hydrate and define curls. To scrunch, gather sections of hair and scrunch upward toward the scalp. Rinse gently afterward.
- Scrunching is also known as the Squish to Condish method.
Deep condition every other week. While the Curly Girl Method suggests more frequent deep conditioning, wavy hair needs less moisture. Over-conditioning can weigh down wavy hair. Deep condition every two weeks for balanced hydration.
- If hair feels heavy after deep conditioning, reduce the product's duration on your hair next time.
Drying and Styling Your Hair
Detangle damp hair using a wide-tooth comb. While the Curly Girl Method advises against using combs and brushes, opting instead for finger detangling, wavy hair may benefit from using a wide-tooth comb on damp hair to avoid frizz.
- Avoid combing completely dry wavy hair to prevent frizz.
Apply styling gel or mousse for enhanced definition and hold. Use the gel or mousse on damp hair, then scrunch your hair after it dries to soften the waves while maintaining definition and hold.
Gently dry wavy hair with a diffuser attachment on a blow dryer. While the Curly Girl Method discourages heat, wavy hair can tolerate it better, especially with a diffuser on low heat. Start with the lowest heat setting to avoid frizz and try different diffusing methods like hover diffusing.
- Always start with the lowest heat setting to prevent frizz.
- Experiment with other diffusing techniques like hover diffusing.
Sleep with your hair in a loose bun or ponytail for defined, healthy waves. To protect your wavy hair and reduce breakage, sleep with your hair in a loose bun or ponytail on top of your head.
- Use fabric-covered scrunchies instead of elastics for gentler hold.
- Consider sleeping on silk or satin pillowcases and using a silk- or satin-lined bonnet to maintain volume and hydration.
Revive your style with water on the second day. If your hair appears flat and frizzy after washing, use water to add volume and definition. Spray water on your hair until damp, scrunch to revive waves, and air-dry or diffuse.
- Water is lightweight and won't weigh down hair. Alternatively, try refreshing with mousse for soft, defined waves.
- Opt for light mousses to avoid weighing down your hair.
- If you prefer a 'dry' refresh, use a light oil instead of water.
Essential Supplies
- Clarifying shampoo
- Sulfate-free shampoo
- Cleansing conditioner
- Deep conditioner
- Diffuser attachment
- Wide-tooth comb
- Gel or mousse
- Scrunchies
Helpful Tips
- Customize your approach based on your hair's unique needs. Experiment with different products and routines until you discover what works best for your hair.
- Practice patience when trying new techniques. Results may not be immediate, but stay consistent as your hair adjusts and improvements may follow.