Licensed cosmetologist and hair expert Laura Dale says, “Curls and waves need special care so using a product specifically designed for waves and curls is key. Waves may benefit from curl enhancing products to pump up the volume where curls need moisture, and a heavier product to keep frizz at bay.” These specific products can restore shine and make wavy hair strands feel smooth and healthy. In addition, some products can also improve the hair texture. In the article, we have rounded up a list of the 18 best products for wavy hair. Keep scrolling to read more!
What Makes Hair Curly Or Wavy?
Professional hair stylist Tonya Thompson says, “In addition to genetic factors, the shape of our hair depends on the shape of our hair follicles. “If your hair follicles are round, you will typically grow wavy hair. If your hair follicles are more oval, hair will grow out more curly. Wavy hair is different from curly in that it can not form a twist or curl without manipulation via styling tools. Wavy hair can range from appearing straight to almost curly, whereas curly hair is clearly defined by having soft spiral-like curls to tight and defined corkscrew shapes.” To know more, check out this full curly hair guide and scroll down to check out the 18 best products for wavy hair.
The 18 Best Products For Wavy Hair
1. Best For Blonde Hair: Bold Uniq Purple Shampoo for Blonde Hair
If you have colored your wavy hair, and it has yellow, gold, red or orange tones, B Uniq Silver Shampoo can help get rid of them. The innovative UV filters in the product shield your hair from sun damage. The ultra-potent formula adds shine and volume to your hair and seals the color to make it last longer. In addition, the shampoo is formulated with a vitamin B5 derivative that helps soften your hair strands, keeps all the unwanted brassiness and yellow tones at bay. To make an informed decision before buying, you can check out this video. Pros
Non-drying Sulfate-free Paraben-free Vegan Cruelty-free Formaldehyde-free Phthalate-free Mineral oil-free PETA certified
Cons None
2. Best Non-Greasy: Herstyler Hair Serum
The Herstyler Hair Serum transforms dry and damaged hair into lush and glossy tresses. This frizz control serum works on straight, wavy, and curly hair. It is formulated with a blend of aloe vera and argan oil that makes the hair soft, shiny, and healthy. Aloe vera deeply moisturizes the scalp and stimulates the hair follicles. This serum is rich in vitamin E, which nourishes the hair. In addition, argan oil improves hair elasticity and restores shine. It also protects the hair from damaging UV rays. The serum reduces frizz and split ends, detangles and conditions the hair, and restores sheen. It also works on hair extensions and wigs. Apply the serum on dry hair and brush your hair. Click here to check out this YouTuber’s unbiased review. Pros
Ideal for daily use Non-greasy Lightweight
Cons
Overpowering scent
3. Best Chemical-Free: Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream
The Moroccan Oil Curl Defining Cream helps define your waves and curls. It contains argan oil that nourishes your hair and scalp and vegetable protein to combat split ends. It provides intense conditioning to minimize frizz and keep your hair well defined.Have fun defining your curls with this cream and don’t miss the video for visuals. Pros
Pleasant fragrance Paraben-free SLS/SLES-free Formaldehyde-free Phthalate-free Mineral oil-free Recyclable packaging
Cons
Contains silicone May leave residue
4. Best Non-Sticky: Amara Gel Aloe Vera Gel
The Amara Organics Aloe Vera Gel is perfect for styling your hair without any dryness and frizz. It is made with 99.75% pure, cold-pressed aloe vera and contains food-grade preservatives. This multipurpose gel can be used to moisturize your skin and cuticles. It spreads smoothly and gets absorbed quickly while leaving your hair silky and smooth. Pros
Non-sticky Paraben-free Sulfate-free Dye-free Vegan Cruelty-free No artificial fragrances
Cons
May irritate the skin
5. Best Color-Safe: Peter Namrongput’s As I Am Coconut CoWash Cleansing Conditioner
The As I Am Coconut CoWash Cleansing Conditioner contains a blend of natural ingredients that stimulate healthy hair growth. This cowashing conditioner removes dirt and product residue from the hair and scalp without causing dryness. It spreads through the hair easily and can be used on chemical and color-treated hair. Here’s a personal review video to help you get a better understanding of the product. Pros
Color-safe Sulfate-free Paraben-free Phthalate-free
Cons
May leave an orange tint
6. Best Volumizing: MopTop Curly Hair Custard Gel
The MopTop Curly Hair Custard Gel is a curl activator that enhances the structure of wavy to kinky hair. It adds definition, texture, and a natural sheen to the hair. The formula contains aloe vera, nettle, silk amino acids, sea botanicals, and honey, which offer maximum hold while moisturizing the hair. Honey, nettle, and silk amino acids give a smooth definition and control frizz. Aloe vera and sea botanicals restore damaged hair. The product moisturizes the hair, reduces dryness, and adds lightweight volume without weighing it down. It has a refreshing citrus, kumquat scent. Pros
No residue Dye-free Silicone-free Paraben-free Sulfate-free Phthalate-free Preservative-free
Cons
Not long-lasting
7. Best Lightweight: John Frieda Frizz Ease Air Dry Waves Styling Foam
The John Frieda Frizz Ease Air Dry Waves Styling Foam is ultra-lightweight and enhances natural curls and waves without making the hair sticky and stiff. Its smooth formula creates a flexible barrier around waves and curls and adds texture to the hair to enhance wave definition. This styling foam is infused with moringa oil and special polymers for hydration and keeps the hair frizz-free, soft, and shiny. It suits all hair types and is safe on chemical and color-treated hair. Pros
Lightweight Pleasant scent No crunchiness Color-safe Non-sticky
Cons
Might not reduce frizz
8. Best For Deep Treatment: LuxeOrganix Moroccan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner
LuxeOrganix’s Rejuvenating Argan Oil Shampoo And Conditioner strikes a perfect balance between hydration and nourishment. The shampoo contains argan oil that protects the hair from the harsh sun rays and provides thorough cleansing. The conditioner works like a therapeutic hair treatment. It moisturizes, nourishes, and rejuvenates your hair without weighing it down. The shampoo and conditioner duo helps maintain scalp health and keeps the hair dandruff-free. They are perfect for colored and keratin-treated hair. Pros
Contains natural ingredients Sulfate-free Paraben-free Gluten-free Phthalate-free Alcohol-free Sodium chloride-free Fade-resistant
Cons
May aggravate dryness
9. Best For Curl Defining: Argan Magic Defining Curl Cream
The Argan Magic Defining Curl Cream is formulated to offer maximum nourishment and definition to wavy and curly hair and works on medium to coarse hair. Its unique formula is a blend of biotin and argan oil that hydrates and nourishes the hair. Argan oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamins that moisturize and protect the hair while improving its elasticity and strength. This cream makes the hair bouncy, shiny, and beautiful. Pros
Lightweight No buildup Non-sticky Paraben-free Cruelty-free
Cons
Might dry out the hair
10. Best For Beachy Waves: Kick Active Sea Salt Spray
The Kick Active Sea Salt Spray adds a natural, beachy texture to hair. It enhances the wave structure and perfectly creates a beachy and tousled-hair look. The formula contains sea salt, Epsom salt, kelp extract, and magnesium. This unique fusion of ingredients provides all-day hold and adds texture to limp hair without making it stiff. The spray fortifies the hair, protects it from daily damage, and helps control frizz. Pros
Color-safe Sulfate-free Paraben-free Alcohol-free Cruelty-free
Cons
Unpleasant scent Not long-lasting Might make the hair sticky
11. Curlsmith Hold Me Softly Style Balm
The Curlsmith Hold Me Softly Style Balm is a smooth whipped cream moisturizer that enhances and defines your curls and waves. The balm offers a soft hold without making the hair crunchy. The formula is enriched with coconut oil to lock in moisture and reduce protein loss and breakage, andiroba extracts for nourishment, and a blend of olive, avocado, and apricot kernel oils to provide intense hydration and boost shine and softness. It also contains a nourishing blend of sunflower oil and aloe, sage, rosemary, pepper, and basil extracts for added nourishment. It works on all curl types and is the best for medium to coarse hair. Pros
Vegan Cruelty-free Sulfate-free Phthalate-free Paraben-free Mineral oil-free Silicone-free
Cons
Might feel sticky
12. LuxeOrganix Deep Mask And Conditioner
This product by LuxeOrganix works as a deep conditioner and hair mask to strengthen, nourish, and hydrate your wavy locks. The formula is enriched with hydrating ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, avocado oil, and quinoa protein to prevent hair breakage. It works effectively on all hair types, and your hair feels incredibly soft and smooth after each application. Pros
Safe for chemically treated hair Vegan Cruelty-free Sulfate-free Paraben-free Sodium chloride-free Gluten-free Phthalate-free No drying alcohols Phosphate-free
Cons None
13. Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray
Add texture and volume to your hair with the Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray. It is specially formulated for fine to medium density hair and is suitable for straight to wavy hair. The spray can be used for everyday styling and keeps the hair moisturized without any greasy residue. It offers a matte finish, and you can use it on damp hair for a perfect windswept look. Pros
Pleasant scent Easy to use Cruelty-free Sulfate-free Paraben-free Mineral oil-free Formaldehyde-free
Cons None
14. Best humidity blocking: R+Co Turntable Curl Defining Cream
The R+Co Turntable Curl Defining Cream is a lightweight talc-free cream that spreads easily on your wavy and curly hair without weighing it down. The cream is infused with rice protein, flax seed extract, chia seed extract, and coconut oil. The rice protein retain moisture in your hair and provide flexibility to it while preventing breakage. The flax seed extract add moisture to your hair without making it greasy. It also provides elasticity to your strands. The chia seeds nourishes your scalp and add shine to your stands. The formula is also enriched with coconut oil that conditions your hair and scalp. Pros
Lightweight Natural ingredients Talcum-free Anti-frizz Protects from humidity Suitable for curly hair
Cons
Overwhelming smell
15. SheaMoisture All Day Frizz Control Milk Gel
The SheaMoisture All Day Frizz Control Milk Gel is perfect for taming unruly waves, flyaways, and frizz. This curl gel contains papaya, neroli, elderflower, and shea butter and adds a dose of moisture and shine, providing complete frizz control. It efficiently blocks humidity and defines smooth, silky curls and waves. Pros
Contains natural ingredients Sulfate-free Paraben-free Petrolatum-free Phthalate-free Mineral oil-free Cruelty-free
Cons
May weigh the hair down
16. Wet-n-Wavy Creme Moist Curl Creme
The Wet-n-Wavy Creme Moist Curl Creme has a rich moisturizing formula that provides smoothness for defined curls and flowing waves, even in high humidity. This lightweight and non-greasy cream tames frizz and flyaways. It also protects, conditions, and restores natural moisture balance to your curly or wavy hair textures. Pros
Lightweight Non-greasy Long-lasting
Cons None
17. Rene Furterer Okara Radiance Enhancing Shampoo
If you have colored and wavy hair, you will love the Rene Furterer Okara Radiance Enhancing Shampoo. This sulfate-free shampoo is gentle, prevents hair color from fading, and improves its vibrancy. It can help maintain your hair color intensity for almost two months. The shampoo contains okara extract that reinforces the hair structure and witch hazel extract that maintains hair color. Pros
Sulfate-free Paraben-free Silicone-free
Cons None
18. Hair Play Set 3 Hair Styling Foam
Hydrate and define your frizzy, wavy, curly hair with the Hair Play Set 3 Hair Styling Foam. This works like a leave-in conditioner and makes your hair smooth, shiny, bouncy, with no residue and flakes. The weightless texture of the foam suits wavy hair as it does not weigh it down, allowing more control over the wave definition. Additionally, it protects the hair from sun damage and works on short hairstyles to offer a great hold. Pros
Lightweight Light and medium hold Thermal protection Color-safe Alcohol-free Paraben-free
Cons None Picking the perfect product for the right wave type requires a thorough understanding of the hair needs and suitable ingredients. Here are a few things you need to consider before buying products for wavy hair.
Things To Consider Before Buying Products For Wavy Hair
Determine The Wave Type
Wavy hair is type 2 hair and classified into three types. Type 2A is mostly straight with a slight “S” curve and volume towards the hair ends. Type 2B has slightly more defined waves but is straight at the root. This wavy hair is more prone to frizz but acts well with curl activating and defining creams. Type 2C is the thickest, and it is close to forming curls rather than just waves. It is the most voluminous of the three types. Nowadays, different hair products are available based on your wave type. Read the packaging and, if required, go through reviews before choosing a product for wavy hair.
Check The Ingredients List
No matter what finish you are looking for, the key to creating long-lasting waves is to start with the right products. When you wash your hair, use moisturizing formulas to keep it from looking frizzy or dry. Avoid using hair care products that contain harsh ingredients like sulfates and alcohol denat as they may make your curls frizzy and dry. Instead, look for shampoos with natural ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, vitamins, and other natural oils.
Balance Your Use Of Silicone-Based Products
Silicones stay on the outside of the hair shaft, providing slip and shine. This is excellent the first time you use a product, but products heavily laden with silicones can cause buildup. While reading about silicones, you will often find that some rave about them, and others tell you to avoid them at all costs. The real answer is somewhere in between. When appropriate, they should be swapped with natural emollients like abyssinian and argan oils. Once you get the right products, set a proper hair care routine. Here is a guide.
How To Take Care Of Wavy Hair: A Basic Hair Care Routine
Wash Your Hair
If you have curly or wavy hair, you are most likely to follow the CG method for washing your hair. One of the CG method principles is that hair with texture requires more moisture than completely straight hair. Unfortunately, using regular shampoos will leave your scalp and hair dull and dry. Start your wavy hair care journey by cutting out the shampoo from your routine, and instead, use a CG-friendly (silicone-free) conditioner to cleanse your hair. If your hair becomes greasy after a month of this routine, switch to a low-poo routine with a sulfate-free shampoo.
Rinse With Cold Water
Rinse your hair with cold water. Though hot showers feel great, they are not good for your hair as they can dry your hair out. So, even if you start with a warm shower, end with a cold one. A cold shower will close the cuticles and help seal the moisture from the shampoo and conditioner.
Detangling Your Hair
Detangling wavy hair is a tricky process. The first rule: don’t use brushes. Second: detangle only in the shower, using liberal amounts of conditioner. Do this while your hair is wet and evenly covered with conditioner. Third: use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb to work out knots and tangles slowly. Finally, be gentle with your hair. Don’t use force, as it might cause breakage.
Conditioning Hair
Using a CG-friendly conditioner to co-wash and condition doesn’t mean your hair is getting everything it can out of your conditioner. Allow the conditioner to penetrate deep within the hair shafts to get maximum nourishment. This will leave your waves bouncy and moisturized.
Moisturizing Your Hair
Conditioning is only half the battle – for truly healthy hair. Wavy hair requires even more moisture. If your hair is frizzy or dull, incorporate a silicone-free, moisturizing hair mask into your routine. Start using it once a week and increase or decrease the frequency as required. If your hair is damaged or has very high porosity, consider supplementing these nourishing hair masks with protein-rich products that will help your hair retain moisture.
Drying Your Hair
Freshly washed hair and hair with the product can be dried in two ways – air drying or diffusing. Let your hair air dry if you have got time to spare and are not craving additional volume. For faster drying and to boost volume, opt for the latter. However, whichever way you choose to dry your hair, start with a plop. This is a unique CG approach to drying and styling and is meant to give your hair a gentle start as it begins to dry. With this method, you don’t have to worry about frizz and tangles from terry cloth towels. Use either a microfiber towel or a plain cotton tee for the plop method.
Protecting Your Hair
Your wavy hair needs the best care and protection from anything that can cause frizz, tangles, and other harm. To avoid frizz altogether, use a silk pillowcase or bonnet to protect your hair while you sleep. If you want to straighten or curl your hair, be very careful of heat damage and use a CG-friendly heat protectant. Professional hair stylist Sharie Wilson says, “To preserve the shape and flow of waves, we recommend using a gentle shampoo and conditioner. It is important to use products sparingly not to weigh your hair down. For shampoo, you should be using about a quarter-sized amount, and for the conditioner, you should be using about two-quarters worth focusing on the ends of your hair.” Wavy hair is appealing because it can be achieved with different techniques. No matter what length, style, and texture you have, wavy look great all the time. Here are some tips and tricks on how you can style wavy hair.
Best Tips And Styling Hacks For Wavy Hair
Use sea salt spray as it is typically designed to be used on the hair ends and helps create a natural beach wave. As your hair is coated with the salt in the spray, the hair cuticle begins to swell, and this results in a coveted beachy look. To make your wavy hair more defined, use a curling wand. You don’t have to divide the hair into sections as you go; simply pick a few pieces at random to curl. These perfectly formed spirals will boost your hair volume and leave you with a more fine finish. You can also try using the hair plopping technique to create more precise waves. This keeps the hair compressed to the top of the head while it air dries. It also allows your waves to have a more refined look than simply letting them dry loosely. Use a defining cream. Apply a small amount to the mid-shaft through the ends of your hair and then comb to distribute. Scrunch your hair to get well-defined and gorgeous waves. Choose a hair brush depending on the type and thickness of your hair. It is important to follow one golden rule while brushing wavy hair: be gentle. As the brush manipulates curls and waves, do not be too rough. This can cause damage to the surface of the hair, leading to frizz.
Tony adds, “For styling wavy hair, the same rule of not applying too much product should apply as well to maintain volume. A hack we recommend is using your fingers to lightly detangle your hair, followed by using a wide-toothed comb. This will help prevent breakage while allowing products to be evenly distributed throughout your hair.”
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Oyendrila Kanjilal, is a certified skincare coach and loves experimenting with a multitude of skin and haircare products. She has reviewed many products that are good and essential to maintain wavy hair and curated a list of the best ones available in the market. The products listed below can moisturize the hair and manage its frizz while enhancing the hair texture. How should you layer hair products for wavy hair? After shampooing, use a leave-in conditioner. Then, you can go ahead with a hair mousse or styling cream. If you want to heat style your hair, use a heat protectant. How many products should you use on wavy hair? Choose products depending on your wavy type and the techniques that work the best for you. What products are bad for wavy hair? Products that contain parabens, sulfates, alcohol denat, artificial fragrances, and other harmful substances are bad for wavy hair. Can you use curly hair products on wavy hair? Yes, most curly hair products are also suitable for treating wavy hair. Just like curly hair, wavy strands are often dry, and the same formulas can be used to moisturize them. However, some intense formulas for curly hair can be a bit greasy on wavy hair. How often should you wash wavy hair? Use a moisturizing and curl-defining shampoo to wash your wavy hair 2-3 times a week. If you have thick hair, washing twice should suffice. If you have thinner and wavier hair, you can wash it thrice a week.
