How Can You Get Wavy Hair?

Health Line

29-05-2025

If you want perfect beachy waves, you have many options to get this look. Whether you choose to use heat or not, you can get wavy hair with the following methods.
While some people are born with naturally wavy hair, many others have straight hair that can be styled to achieve beautiful waves.
If you weren't born with wavy hair, don't worry — there are plenty of styling options available.
Discover simple techniques to achieve that effortless, tousled look without compromising your hair quality. From overnight braids to sea salt sprays, learn how to enhance your hair's natural texture and create effortless, lasting waves.
Wave potential
Though hair texture is primarily influenced by genetics, many hair types can achieve waves with a bit of help.
Before testing out wavy hair routines, it can be useful to first check if your hair has natural wave potential. Some hair that appears straight might actually have hidden waves that proper techniques can bring out.
Before styling, ensure your hair is clean for best results. Some methods can be used with damp but not dripping hair, while others need dry hair. Remember that wet hair is more delicate than dry, particularly when brushing.
Heat styling
If you choose to use heat to get wavier hair, make sure to first protect your delicate strands with heat protectant.
For this method, you'll want to first section your hair.
Then wrap each section of clean and dry hair around the wand or iron in stages. Doing it in small sections allows you to have more control over the wave and helps the heat distribute evenly. If you take too much hair at a time, it's harder for the styling tool to work, and the heat may not reach all parts of the hair.
Flat iron
Create waves with a flat iron by wrapping sections of hair around the styling tool. You can try alternating directions for a more natural look.
The tension you apply to your hair can determine how defined or loose your waves are. You can also try brushing your hair through with a wide-toothed comb after styling to loosen your curls up for that natural, effortless look.
Heatless methods
Heat can dry hair out and cause damage over time, even if you take all precautions.
If you want to take a break from heat styling or prefer non-heat methods altogether, there are many options to still achieve that tousled look.
Diffusing and scrunching
If using a hairdryer to dry your hair, you use a diffuser to create waves and reduce frizz.
Gently scrunch hair from the ends upward as you dry to encourage waves and enhance texture.
You can create waves by braiding damp hair and letting it dry completely before unraveling. This method works well overnight and is generally gentle on hair, so long as your braids are not too tight.
Make sure to detangle your hair before braiding to avoid knotting your hair.
Hair rollers
Creating mini buns or using hair rollers can give you spiraling curls. You can have as many sections as you want, but the more sections you have, the curlier your hair will be.
Once sectioned, secure each bun into place with grips. Some rollers also require clips to secure, but you can also find velcro options.
Twisting
Simply twisting sections of damp hair and allowing them to dry creates natural-looking waves with minimal effort.
Try pulling your hair into a high ponytail and then splitting it into two sections, twisting each section before securing them with hair ties.
Release the hair after it's air dried for bouncy waves.
Make your own sea salt spray for beachy waves. This product adds texture and definition to create that effortless beach look.
Curl-enhancing products
Changing your shampoo and conditioner to formulas designed for wavy or textured hair can enhance natural wave patterns.
Using mousse or curl-enhancing cream can also add volume, bounce, and help reduce frizz.