How to Make Hair Wavy

Wavy hairstyle for men
 
Q: I'm a man with hair that touches my collar. My hair is straight, but I want it to be wavy. How can I make my hair wavy?
 
A: Well, you have two options: temporary styling methods that won't harm your hair, or semi-permanent chemical treatments.
 

Perm

The semi-permanent method involves getting a perm (permanent wave). A perm uses chemicals to break down the natural structure of your hair and rebuild it into a new, wavy shape. Remember that as your hair grows (about half an inch or 1.25 cm a month) your natural straight hair will start showing at the roots. To keep the look consistent, you’ll need to go back to the salon for touch-ups every few months.
 
Most people think perms only produce tight curls, but a skilled stylist can give you a loose "beach wave" perm. By using larger flexi-rods or large-diameter foam rollers rather than standard tight perm rods, h or she can create a loose, rippling wave or a casual, tousled "just woke up" look.
 

Temporary Styling Methods

If you prefer temporary styling, heat tools like curling irons or hot rollers are an option. However, using them on collar-length hair takes a bit of practice, and you must use a heat protectant spray beforehand to avoid damaging your hair.
 
A classic styling technique you might consider is the finger wave method. For this technique, you apply a firm-hold hair gel, pomade, or styling lotion to damp hair. Then you comb the hair into S-shaped waves and clip them into place. Once dry, you comb them out for a smooth, wavy finish. This will yield a very structured look which works well if you want a refined style without a chemical treatment.
 

Quick, Low-Maintenance Options

If you want quick, low-maintenance waves, there are two modern options you could try first:
 
• Sea Salt Spray & Scrunching: Spray a generous amount of sea salt spray onto damp hair. Then scrunch the hair upward toward your scalp with your hands while blow-drying with a diffuser attachment (or letting it air-dry). The salt coats the hair to add grip and thickness, helping straight hair form soft waves.
 
• Overnight Braids or Twists: Lightly wet your collar-length hair before bed, divide it into two or three sections, and braid or twist them loosely. Fasten the ends with small hair ties. Sleep with the braids in, and unwrap them when you wake up. Rake your fingers through your hair with a touch of texturizing paste.
 
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See also:
 
Can a man perm his hair and if so how long should it be?
 
Do men still perm their hair?
 
Perming hair