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

Styling for wavy hair: how to get defined waves in naturally wavy hair

Styling wavy hair is done on wet hair straight out of the shower using techniques such as plopping, diffusing on low heat, or air-drying. Apply products to soaking-wet hair and do not touch it while it dries to preserve the wave pattern and achieve defined natural waves.

 

With the right technique and product order, wavy hair can dry into soft, defined waves without frizz or heaviness. It is about enhancing what is 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, followed by any styling product for definition. Apply everything to soaking-wet hair and scrunch the waves upward with your palms—never rub.

Plopping for More Volume and Definition

Plopping is a drying technique in which 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 disturbing the wave pattern, adds more volume at the roots, and reduces drying time. It is perfect for wavy hair that is 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 up the edges and tie them loosely at the nape of your neck. Let it rest for 10-20 minutes before allowing your hair to air-dry or using a diffuser.

Diffusing for Faster Drying Without Frizz

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

Air-Drying for the Purest Natural Waves

Air-drying gives wavy hair the softest, most natural shape. Squeeze out excess water with a microfiber towel, apply your 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 has dried. Gently scrunch your hair upward with your palms when it is completely dry. The waves will soften and gain movement without becoming frizzy.

 

The Curl Defining Duo

The Curl Defining Duo

349 kr
Ocean Waves Shampoo bar

Ocean Waves Shampoo bar

179 kr

Comparison: Drying Techniques for Wavy Hair

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

 

Learn more about the complete routine for wavy hair in our comprehensive guide to wavy hair.

Back to blog

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 cleansing action that does not disrupt the hair’s natural movement. A general 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.
Do your shampoo bars contain sulfates? +
No, our shampoo bars are completely free from sulfates and also free from silicones. FOAM is a gentle alternative to conventional shampoo and formulated to suit even the most sensitive scalp.
What is plopping, and how do you do it? +
Plopping is a drying technique in which 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 more 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 the softest, most natural waves but takes 1–2 hours. Using a diffuser on low heat and low airflow provides more volume and definition in 15–20 minutes. You can also start with plopping and finish with a diffuser or air-drying, depending on how much time you have.
How do I prevent frizz as 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, and then let your hair dry undisturbed. Finish your shower with cold water to seal the cuticle, and use a microfiber towel instead of a regular terry towel.