There is no one-size-fits-all approach to taking care of hair. So much—if not all—of it depends on your hair type. Basically, our hair can be categorized under one of the following: straight, wavy, curly, or coily. For wavy hair individuals especially, there are a few things to consider when wanting to keep those waves healthy and strong and trying to figure out a wavy hair routine that works for you.
To figure out if you have wavy hair, you have to look at the shape of your strands. According to Allure’s guide on how to figure out your curl type, it defines wavy hair as “bendable, can be fine to coarse, and have a definitive S pattern that lays closer to the head.” Because wavy hair can vary person to person, the products and type of routine you’ll want will also vary. But don’t panic if this is too much for you. If you’re stumped on where to begin, we’ve got you. Consider this a wavy hair routine for beginners. Read on to learn more.
What is a good hair routine for wavy hair?
Trying to figure out the best routine for your wavy hair depends on a couple of different things. You have to consider things like the environment, how long you want to spend styling your hair, and how well your hair absorbs products. Those factors will determine what type of products you’re going to use for your day-to-day (more on that later).
I, for example, have a very oily scalp. Hairstylists and dermatologists have told me that I would benefit from washing my hair every day to combat the oiliness and flakiness. Others might benefit from washing hair every other day or just two to three times a week. Ask your stylist and/or dermatologist what would work best for you and go from there.
But for general wavy hair routine steps, air drying over using hot tools when you can is always preferred to prevent damage and you’ll want to use a shampoo and conditioner on the days you do wash your hair, plus an air dry cream, a leave-in-conditioner, and hair oil for styling.
What products should you use on wavy hair?
Wavy hair routine products can vary based on how thick or thin your waves are. Products that are too heavy can weigh my hair down or cause buildup that can put stress on the hair shaft and lead to breakage. While my natural hair is slightly wavy, I usually style my hair straight and blown out. So I need products that will infuse hydration and keep my hair protected from the heat. As a general rule of thumb: it’s usually always safe to go with more lightweight products.
Ingredients to look out for also depend on what hair concerns you are most interested in solving, but you’ll never go wrong with a shampoo and conditioner that will hydrate hair. Something like Cécred’s Hydrating Shampoo and Hydrating Conditioner, which has nourishing ingredients such as amino acids, olive oil, and bioactive keratin ferment, cleanses hair without stripping it of needed moisture. It hydrates hair from the root all the way to the ends, keeping hair healthy as you go about your day.
Should you brush wavy hair?
Yes, you can always brush wavy hair. My stylist and dermatologist say this is especially important before you wash your hair, as it will help prevent breakage from tangles. And yes, you can technically brush your wavy hair while it’s wet, but be mindful while doing it—especially when air or towel-drying hair.
What should you never use on wavy hair?
Hairstylists and dermatologists have told me to be mindful of how I dry my hair. You want to be gentle with strands as friction might cause damage. I use a microfiber towel and wring out excess water before I style my hair.
And don’t be afraid to experiment with different products. Figuring out the best routine for you and your hair is a learning process. But once you have it down pat, you’ll be good to go.