Wavy hair is so unique and beautiful, but it can be hard to figure out how to style it. One day, it might look springy and even have some spirals, and the next, it could be nearly straight. Ever notice a different wave pattern in different sections of your hair? Me too. (Why is it curlier underneath?) How do I prevent it from looking stringy, but still achieve soft, defined waves without frizz? Keep reading for my ultimate guide, inspired by the curly girl method!

Recommended Video

#1: Start with the Curly Girl Method

The Curly Girl Method is a set of guidelines for styling curly and wavy hair with a focus on avoiding sulfates, silicones, and heat and mechanical damage. There are different lists of CG method approved hair products. It is a great starting point and definitely helps to heal damaged hair, but once you start getting to know your waves, the Curly Girl Method may require some adjusting. If you want to style with a hairbrush, go for it. Waves can be easily weighed down, so I suggest not exclusively co-washing (washing with conditioner only).

#2: Use Lightweight Products, and Avoid Heavy Ones

This one is a real game-changer. Waves can easily be weighed down, so it’s best to use the right type of products: lightweight ones. Lightweight products are those with few or no oils and butters in them. Heavy products commonly have 5-10 oils and butters in them, such as coconut oil or shea butter. To learn more about what makes a product light or heavy, check out the post below! For a list of my favorite recommended lightweight products, see the following post.

Advertisement Instagram / @katherinepagewaves

• Shampoos (Hairstory, Original Moxie, Cantu, Not Your Mother’s, Treluxe)
• Conditioners (DevaCurl, Giovanni, Herbal Essences, Not Your Mother’s, MopTop)
• Leave-in Conditioners (Hair Dance, Kinky-Curly, Giovanni)
• Creams (Hairstory, Not Your Mother’s)
• Clear Stylers/Custards (Original Moxie, Treluxe, MopTop, Taliah Waajid)
• Mousses (Not Your Mother’s, Curl Talk)
• Gels (Treluxe, Original Moxie, Ecoslay, ION, Giovanni)

#3: Clarify Once a Month

For your regular routine, you want to use a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser. However, products can build up over time, and it’s important to give your hair and scalp a thorough, deep cleanse every now and then. Either grab a sulfate shampoo or one that is specifically for clarifying, and make sure to use it at least once a month! See below for my favorite $1 clarifying shampoo and some extra tips on how to use it!