Styling för vågigt hår: så får du definierade vågor i självfall

Styling for wavy hair: how to get defined natural waves

Styling wavy hair is done on wet hair straight out of the shower, using techniques like plopping, diffusing on low heat, or air-drying. Apply products to soaking-wet hair and don’t touch it while it dries to preserve the wave pattern and get defined natural waves.

 

With the right technique and product order, wavy hair can dry into soft, defined waves without frizz or feeling weighed down. It’s about enhancing what’s already there, not creating something artificial.

Product order for wavy hair

The order in which you apply products to wavy hair makes a big difference. The basic rule is: moisturize first, then seal. Start with a lightweight leave-in conditioner or conditioner on the lengths to add moisture, then apply a styling product for definition if needed. Apply everything to soaking-wet hair and scrunch the waves with your palms - never rub.

Plopping for more volume and definition

Plopping is a drying technique where you place wet hair in a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt and let it rest for 10-20 minutes. It removes excess water without disrupting the wave pattern, adds volume at the roots, and reduces drying time. Perfect for wavy hair that’s easily weighed down by water.

Here’s how: lay a microfiber towel flat, bend forward and place your hair in the middle of the towel, fold the edges up and tie them loosely at the nape of your neck. Let it rest for 10-20 minutes before air-drying your hair or using a diffuser.

A diffuser for faster drying without frizz

A diffuser distributes airflow evenly and dries the hair without disrupting the wave pattern. Always use low heat and low airflow. Bend forward and let the waves fall into the diffuser; don’t touch your hair while it dries. Finish with cool air to close the cuticle and add extra shine. Read more about diffusing vs. air-drying for waves and curls.

Air-drying for the most natural waves

Air-drying gives wavy hair its softest, most natural shape. Squeeze out excess water with a microfiber towel, apply products, and let your hair dry without touching it. Touching your hair while it dries disrupts the wave pattern and causes frizz. Patience is the most important styling product for naturally wavy hair.

 

The Editor's Note: Scrunch out the crunch: if you use gel or styling cream, your hair may feel stiff once it’s dry. If so, gently scrunch your hair upward with your palms when it’s completely dry. The waves will soften and gain movement without getting frizzy.

 

The Curl Defining Duo

The Curl Defining Duo

€34,95 EUR
Ocean Waves shampoo bar for wavy and curly hair

Ocean Waves shampoo bar for wavy and curly hair

€16,95 EUR

Comparison: drying techniques for wavy hair

Technique Result Best for Time
Air-drying Soft, natural waves Fine to medium waves 1-2 hours
Plopping and air-drying More volume, faster drying All wave types 20 min and 45 min
Diffuser Defined waves with volume Thicker waves, when you’re in a hurry 15-20 minutes

 

Read more about the full routine for wavy hair in our complete guide to wavy hair.

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Vanliga frågor

What is the difference between Ocean Waves and a regular shampoo bar? +
Ocean Waves is specifically formulated for wavy and curly hair, with a gentle cleanse that doesn’t disrupt the hair’s natural movement. A general-purpose shampoo bar may be too cleansing or too heavy for this hair type.
Which shampoo bar is best for my hair type? +
It depends on your scalp and your hair’s needs. Choose Forest Treat if you have dry or damaged hair that needs moisture, Ocean Waves for curly or wavy hair that needs volume and definition, White Flower if you have normal to oily hair or an oily scalp, and Rice Serenity if you have a sensitive scalp or prefer a completely fragrance-free shampoo bar.
Are FOAM shampoo bars sulfate-free? +
Yes, our shampoo bars are completely sulfate-free and also free from silicones and added preservatives. FOAM is a gentle alternative to conventional shampoo and is formulated to suit even the most sensitive scalp.
What is plopping, and how do you do it? +
Plopping is a drying technique where you place wet hair in a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt and let it rest for 10-20 minutes. The technique removes excess water without disturbing the wave pattern, adds volume at the roots, and reduces drying time. Lay the towel flat, bend forward and place your hair in the center, fold up the edges, and tie it loosely at the nape of your neck.
Should I diffuse or air-dry wavy hair? +
Both work well for wavy hair. Air-drying gives you the softest, most natural waves, but takes 1-2 hours. Using a diffuser on low heat and low airflow gives you more volume and definition in 15-20 minutes. Try plopping first, then finish with a diffuser or air-drying, depending on how much time you have.
How do I prevent frizz when wavy hair dries? +
Don't touch your hair while it dries; it's the most common cause of frizz in wavy hair. Apply products to soaking wet hair, scrunch the waves with your palms, then let your hair dry undisturbed. Finish with a cold rinse in the shower to seal the cuticle, and use a microfiber towel instead of a regular terry towel.