How to Get Beach Waves: A Step-by-Step Guide
Beach waves have become one of the most sought-after hairstyles for anyone looking for a relaxed, effortless look. Despite their popularity, many people struggle to achieve the perfect beach wave. However, with the right tools and techniques, beach waves are easier to achieve than you may think.
Step-by-Step Guide for Using a Curling Iron
Using a curling iron is one of the most popular methods for achieving beach waves. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Prep Your Hair
Prepping your hair is crucial before using any heat tool to avoid damage. Start by applying a heat protectant throughout your hair. Additionally, adding a volumizing mousse or texturizing spray can also help to increase hold and texture.
Step 2: Section Your Hair
Divide your hair into 2-3 inch sections using hair clips. This will help to ensure that you curl all parts of your hair evenly.
Step 3: Use a Curling Iron
Start by curling your hair at the ends and working your way up to the roots. Use a 1-inch or 1¼-inch curling iron barrel for looser waves, and a ¾-inch or 1-inch barrel for tighter waves. Hold the curling iron vertically, wrap a 2-3 inch section of hair around the barrel, and hold for 8-10 seconds. Repeat until all sections of hair are curled.
Step 4: Finish with Products
After curling your hair, apply a texturizing spray or dry shampoo to your roots to add volume and separate the waves. You can also add a light-hold hairspray to help your waves hold all day.
Step 5: Make Your Waves Look Natural
Waves that look too perfect can come off as unnatural. To make your waves look more natural, comb out your curls with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb and run your fingers through your hair to blend the curls together.
DIY Salt Spray Recipe
Another popular way to achieve beach waves is by using a salt spray. Here’s how to make your own:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of warm water
- 1 tablespoon of sea salt
- 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients into a spray bottle and shake well.
- Spray generously onto slightly damp hair.
- Scrunch your hair with your fingers to create a natural wave.
How to Use Salt Spray for Best Results
Start by applying the spray from your roots down to the ends of your slightly damp hair. Use your fingers to scrunch your hair while you blow-dry it on low or high heat. If you have thicker hair, it may take a few sprays to achieve your desired look. However, be careful not to overuse the spray, as it could lead to your hair feeling dry or sticky.
Tips for Achieving Waves Without Heat
Although heat tools do provide long-lasting results, some people may want to avoid using them due to the potential damage they can cause. However, you can still achieve beach waves with other methods, including:
Braiding Method:
With slightly damp hair, twist or braid small sections of hair. Let your hair dry naturally or use a hairdryer on low heat for a quicker result. Once dry, undo the braids or twists and run your fingers through your hair to loosen the waves.
Twisting Method:
Start by sectioning your hair into small pieces and twist each section tightly. Use a hair tie to secure the twisted piece of hair loosely. Let your hair dry before undoing the twists. Run your fingers through your hair to break up the waves.
Beachy Sea Salt Spray:
Apply a sea salt spray to your damp hair to create a beachy texture. Scrunch your hair as it air-dries to achieve a natural wave. You can also add a light-hold hairspray or a styling cream for a more defined wave.
Short Hair Tutorial
Getting beach waves on short hair can be a bit trickier, but it’s still possible. Here are some tips for adapting the curling iron or other methods for shorter hair:
- Use a smaller barrel size for tighter waves.
- Focus the curling iron on the bottom half of your hair to create more volume.
- Apply a small amount of styling cream and use your fingers to create waves.
- Use bobby pins to pin sections of hair down, creating a wavy look. Let sit for 20-30 minutes and remove for an effortless wave.
Having short hair comes with some advantages when it comes to achieving beach waves. Less hair means that the curls can last longer, and there’s less weight dragging them down throughout the day.
Best Products for Achieving Beach Waves
There are many products on the market that can help you achieve beach waves. Some of the most popular ones include:
- Sea salt spray: Adds texture and volume while holding waves in place.
- Hairspray: Provides a flexible hold for long-lasting waves.
- Dry Shampoo: Absorbs oil and adds texture, creating a beachy wave look.
- Texturizing Spray: Adds grit and hold for achieving that effortless-looking wave.
- Curl Enhancing Cream: Defines curls and provides a natural-looking wave.
When selecting products, it’s important to consider your hair type and texture. For example, if you have finer hair, you may want to consider using a texturizing spray or curl-enhancing cream that doesn’t weigh down your hair.
How to Maintain Waves All Day
It’s common for beach waves to fall flat or frizz as the day goes on. Here are some tips for touching up your hair throughout the day:
- Use dry shampoo to absorb oil and refresh your waves.
- Apply a texturizing spray to your roots and scrunch your hair to revive the waves.
- Add some styling cream to define loose waves again.
For maintaining waves all day, use a flexible hold hairspray or hair oil to keep waves looking fresh and natural.
Conclusion
Beach waves are a timeless hairstyle that is perfect for any occasion. Using a curling iron, DIY salt spray, or other methods, anyone can achieve this look with ease. With the right products and a little bit of patience, you can have effortless-looking waves that last all day.
