How to Get Loose Waves

Do you want a carefree, straight from the beach summertime look? Loose, wavy hair is in and you can get it with a few easy steps. Whether you have fine, straight hair or thick, curly hair, you can achieve loose waves.

For waves that’ll last all day, start with hair that hasn’t been shampooed for a day or two. Shampooing strips your hair of the oils that hold styling the best. Before styling, work a mousse or spray through your hair. Styling product that contains sea salt adds texture that’ll hold the style without making your hair crunchy. There are several techniques that will give you loose waves; choose the one that works best for your hair and your schedule.

[ctt template=”5″ link=”BLUz4″ via=”no” ]For thin hair, be sure to use a heat setting below 200 degrees when styling[/ctt]

With a Curling Iron

Apply a protectant spray, especially to the ends, to protect your hair from heat damage. Use a medium to large size barrel that’s one or two inches thick. If you have fine hair, use a heat setting below 200°F. If you have thick hair, you can use a slightly higher setting between 200°F and 300°F. Section your hair and wrap it around the barrel from root to tip. For a style that lasts, roll and clip each curled section up onto your head. Lightly mist with hairspray and let it set for about 10 minutes.

With a Straightening Iron

A straightening iron can also give you the loose, wavy curls you want. Apply protectant and section your hair.  Then, clamp down the straightener on one small part and twist it as you slowly move down the section of your hair. If the curls come out tight, simply run your fingers through your hair to finish the look.

Without Heat

If you’re concerned about heat damage or you want to wake up and go, let your hair set overnight. While your hair is still slightly damp, massage a small drop of anti-frizz serum throughout your hair. Part your hair and brush it thoroughly. Then, braid your hair or use the elastic headband technique. A braid works well for long hair, but the headband works for all lengths. Place the headband around your head so that it’s goes across the middle of your forehead. Wrap small sections of hair around the headband, keeping them close together to fit your full head of hair. In the morning, undo the braid or headband and you’ll have beautiful, textured waves.

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