Fact Checked & Reviewed By Jerika Bulala
Jerika is a chemist with almost 10 years of experience. She finished her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry…
Wavy hair, like any other uniquely patterned structure, can require a lot of patience and effort. The artistry of hair care often comes with its own set of difficulties, and that includes type 2 hair, which is neither straight nor curly. But below is an ultimate guide for wavy curly hair to help you.
Type 2A, B, and C hair is considered wavy and is typically straighter, smoother hair with slight bends and bumps from the middle of the head downwards. It is also categorized as curly and requires unique care to keep hydrated and styled so that the waves can gain definition and retain their shape.
There’s no shortage of information for curly and coily hair types, but wavy hair often gets overlooked. Like the middle child of textures, it doesn’t always receive the same attention. Because of this, many with wavy hair struggle to find the right routines and products. This guide brings you everything you need to properly care for your waves and help them look their best.
Understanding Your Wavy Hair
Wavy curly hair comes in many forms, from naturally wavy haircuts to more modern styles like the wolf cut. Whether you love a loose curly wolf cut, a shoulder-length wolf cut wavy hair look, or prefer French wavy hair for its effortless elegance, this guide will help you understand how to care for every subtype.
When shopping for hair products, you’ll often see labels for dry, fine, oily, or color-treated hair. While these categories can help, they don’t fully explain your natural texture or curl pattern.
Your hair type is primarily determined by genetics and generally falls into one of four categories: straight, wavy, curly, or coily. None of these are “better” than the others; they simply need different cuts, styling techniques, and products to look their best.
Knowing your exact type, especially your curl pattern, is essential for building a healthy routine. The right products and methods can enhance your natural texture, while the wrong choices may leave your hair flat, frizzy, or even damaged over time.
What is Type 2 Wavy-Curly Hair?
To discover your hair type, you must understand the hair typing system and the hair categories. Two such systems are Naturally Curly, which follows this Curly Hair Scale, and the Andre Walker Hair Typing System (created in the 1990s).
Each hair type (2, 3, and 4) is divided into three subcategories that highlight curly hair’s unique patterns. The sub-classifications, labeled A through C, are based on the diameter and shape of the wave, curl, or coil.
Type 2 hair (classified as A, B, or C) is defined by its S-shaped pattern. This texture falls in the middle: looser than traditional curls yet more defined than straight hair. As a result, it’s often mistaken for straight hair with frizz or curls that have lost their shape. Without the right products and techniques, wavy curly hair can look undefined and uneven.
For example, 2B hair with bangs typically shows stronger definition around the face, while a shoulder length wolf cut wavy hair style can add movement and balance to 2C waves. Wavy textures can sometimes appear undone—like brushed-out curls or dents left behind by ponytails or braids—but with proper care, they can look effortlessly chic.
One of the advantages of wavy hair is its versatility. Because it’s neither too sleek nor too textured, it adapts easily to a wide range of styles. Many people also find they fall into more than one category, such as 2C/3A or 3C/4A, which is completely normal.
Knowing where you land on the scale helps you choose the right products and routines, which can make a dramatic difference in the health and appearance of your waves.
How Wavy-Curly Hair Differs from Other Hair Types
Wavy hair is classified as type 2 on the Curly Hair Scale. The wavy hair pattern is present in all hair textures, from fine to coarse.1
But there are distinct differences, such as:
- Wavy hair has a definite S-shaped pattern, ranging from loose to tight, with the texture ranging from fine to coarse.
- Curly hair has a more defined spiraling pattern, from loose loops to springy corkscrews.
- Wavy curly hair tends to be a type of curly hair that is looser, with a less defined spiral pattern.
- Curly hair can often be “molded” – you can wrap it around your finger, either wet or dry, to shape or “set” a curl. Wavy hair rarely does this – the spirals are much softer. If you press a wavy spiral upwards, you might get a coil of an inch in diameter (or more or less), but when you let go, the diameter decreases. Wavy curls don’t have the determined springy bounce and preservation of diameter of curly curls.
The Curly Girl Method for Type 2 Wavy Hair
The Curly Girl Method (often called the CG Method), created by Lorraine Massey, is a set of hair care guidelines designed for wavy, curly, and coily textures. More than just a routine, it’s a new way of thinking about hair care, one that has taken social media by storm.
This method has inspired people everywhere to embrace their natural waves and curls with confidence. For those with wavy curly hair, it can be transformative, bringing out shape, bounce, and definition that many didn’t know their hair could achieve.
At its core, the Curly Girl Method teaches you how to understand your hair and care for it in a way that minimizes damage and maximizes health. The goal is to achieve frizz-free, hydrated, and naturally defined curls.
The method also challenges the use of common hair care ingredients like sulfates, drying alcohols, mineral oils, waxes, and silicones, many of which are known to strip or weigh down delicate wave and curl patterns. It is based on the premise that many hair products on the market contain ingredients like sulfates, drying alcohols, mineral oils, waxes, and silicones, many of which are known to strip or weigh down delicate wave and curl patterns.2
Massey explains that certain ingredients can cause buildup, which leads to frizz, tangles, and dryness. In the Curly Girl Method, she advises against using silicone-based shampoos and conditioners.
However, this guidance generalizes all silicones as harmful for curly hair. In reality, some gentler silicones, such as amodimethicone, can be curl-friendly depending on their concentration, how they’re combined with other active ingredients, and how they’re used .3,4,7
Instead of traditional shampoos, Massey recommends cleansing with a conditioner (also called co-washing). She further suggests choosing water-soluble products with clear ingredient lists, avoiding synthetic fragrances, and eliminating heat-styling tools that can cause long-term damage.
If you consistently use sulfate-free shampoo and silicone-free products for about two months, you’ll likely notice a change: softer, more manageable, hydrated, and less frizzy hair.
At its core, the Curly Girl Method follows a simple three-step routine: cleanse, condition, and style. To explore the method in depth, you can find Massey’s book on Amazon and begin your own CG journey.
Understanding Hair Porosity for Wavy Hair Care
Identifying your hair’s porosity is essential for creating a routine that truly works for you. Porosity describes how well your strands absorb and retain moisture5,6 and it falls into three categories: high, medium, and low. Each type requires a different approach to care.
- High Porosity: Hair with high porosity has a damaged structure with gaps and cracks in the shaft. Its lifted cuticle absorbs moisture quickly but struggles to retain it, often leading to dryness, frizz, and breakage.
- Medium Porosity: This is the most balanced type. It absorbs and holds moisture easily and generally requires the least specialized care.
- Low Porosity: Hair with low porosity has a tightly compact cuticle layer. It resists absorbing moisture but holds it well once it penetrates the strand.
Understanding your porosity level helps you choose the right techniques and the most effective wavy hair products, ensuring your strands stay healthy, hydrated, and defined.
Wavy Haircare Routine for Type 2A, 2B, and 2C
Now that you understand what wavy hair is and how to care for it, let’s talk about routines. A consistent routine is the foundation of healthy, defined waves, and tailoring it to your hair’s needs makes all the difference.
The first step is recognizing that wavy hair is generally drier than straight hair. That means hydration and nourishment should be priorities when choosing products.
- Getting a curly cut is one of the best investments you can make for wavy curly hair. A fresh, well-shaped cut removes weight, enhances definition, and makes styling much easier. Layers, when done correctly, can add shape and movement to your natural pattern.
- Limit the use of heat styling tools, which can weaken and damage strands. Instead, dry your hair with a diffuser, which distributes heat evenly and reduces frizz.
- A leave-in conditioner (see below to find out what the experts have to say) is another must-have. It provides ongoing hydration, helps manage frizz, protects against humidity, and makes curls softer and more manageable. Many also add shine while easing detangling.
- In addition to your daily products, schedule a weekly deep-conditioning treatment to deliver extra moisture and repair. And don’t skip clarifying; occasional use of a clarifying shampoo removes buildup and residue, leaving your hair refreshed and better able to absorb hydrating products.
Using a Leave-in Conditioner for Wavy Hair, According to Experts
When asked about her thoughts about using a leave-in conditioner for wavy hair, award-winning and Professional Curly Hairstylist Krista Fredericton had this to say:
“I feel that a large percentage of people with wavy hair have a finer, smoother hair type that gets weighed down easily. Leave-in conditioners can often weigh down wavy hair (formulation of ingredients inside the product), make the hair too soft, relax the waves, and therefore decrease the length of time the person can get out of each wash day. For 85% of my wavy clientele, I do not recommend a leave-in conditioner because if people want longevity out of their wavy hair, I do not recommend cream products of any kind and that category includes leave-in conditioners.”
There are a few special circumstances in which she may recommend using a leave-in conditioner:
- For those with higher-porosity hair, Krista sometimes recommends trying a small amount of leave-in conditioner in the summertime, as leave-in conditioners are often formulated with film-forming ingredients that help to create a humidity barrier.
- For those who just really want a softer feel to their hair. If they don’t mind washing it more often, they can try a leave-in conditioner instead of a heavier cream-styling product.
Fredericton goes on to say that the argument with Wavies is always that they need a leave-in conditioner to help get through the tangles. Her answer is always to try spending more time working water and conditioner into their hair using the squish-to-condish technique and to try and figure out why their hair is tangling in the first place.
For example:
– Is it tangling from hair color or highlights? Use K18 and ask your stylist not to overlap the bleach when highlighting. Also, use Olaplex when performing their color service.
– Are they clarifying and deep conditioning (with protein if their hair is colored) at least once a month (or as needed)?
– Is it tangling from hard water? Using a clarifying shampoo removes product build-up that causes frizz and removes hard water minerals that cause tangles.
Tips for Styling 2A, 2B, and 2C Curls
Styling wavy hair doesn’t have to be challenging and becomes a bother. Wavy hair is one of the most fun hair types to style because of its versatility and texture.
You can style your wavy hair for maximum definition and curl-clumping waves in a few different ways.
Check out these techniques:
Applying Gel or Mousse to Wet Hair
After rinsing out your conditioner in the shower, it’s time to reach for gel or mousse, a step many of us have avoided since those middle-school hair experiments gone wrong.
The key is to apply a generous amount of gel or mousse while your hair is still wet. This technique locks in moisture, boosts curl definition, and provides the hold your waves need to keep their shape throughout the day.
The Scrunch Method
To scrunch, apply your styling product (leave-in conditioner and or curl cream) and gel to wet hair, then scrunch your hair with your hands to help define your waves.
The Art of Air Drying
Next, let your hair air dry naturally. If you’ve already given up the blow dryer, this step should be easy to incorporate into your routine. The challenge is to avoid touching your hair as it dries.
Doing so can disrupt curl formation and lead to unwanted frizz. Unfortunately, this also means resisting the temptation to take a nap while your hair dries, as movement can interfere with the drying process.
The Squish-to-Condish Method
This method can be done directly after you shampoo and condition your hair on wash day with your head upside down.
To achieve it:
- With your head upside down, detangle your hair with your fingers or your favorite detangling tool.
- Apply your hair products to wet hair, then squish your strands with your hands.
- Prepare your hair for styling products by applying a small amount of leave-in conditioner with a lot of water. Scrunch your hair until you see clumps forming together.
- Micro-plop your hair for a few minutes using an old cotton T-shirt or microfiber towel. This method will help your waves dry faster and keep their natural shape.
- Then, apply your styling products.
- Diffuse your hair on medium to low heat.
The Pineapple Method
This is an excellent way to preserve your wavy hair overnight. It is also pretty popular in the curly hair world.
To do this:
- Gather your hair into a loose ponytail on top of your head.
- Then, secure it with a satin/silk scarf or scrunchie.
- Remove the scarf or scrunchie in the morning and shake your hair from the roots.
The Bowl Method
Applying products to soaking wet hair will help your wavy hair better absorb the product and help define the waves.
You can also apply the products while standing up or with your head upside down.
How to Make Type 2 Hair Curlier
If you have wavy hair, you may sometimes feel like your curls are more of a bother than anything else. This is probably because wavy hair can be challenging to style.
It often looks like untidy, straight hair – almost as if you have not brushed it or don’t know what to do with it.
Wavy hair can also appear frizzy or unruly. You can do a few things if you are looking for ways to make your wavy hair curlier.
If your hair was affected by heat straightening tools or harsh chemicals, it produced loose wave curls.
Go for deep conditioning treatments and protein masks to revive your wavy locks back to their natural state. Eventually, your damaged hair will become more wavy or curlier.
You can also train your hair with the finger coiling method:
- Start with damp, clean hair and section your hair into a small subsection.
- Create a small coil by wrapping your hair around your index finger (or use a Denman brush) in a clockwise direction.
- Repeat this process until all of your hair is in small coils.
You can also use a diffuser to help wavy hair become curlier.
- To use a diffuser, start with clean, damp hair.
- Apply a curl-enhancing product to your hair, and then place the diffuser attachment on your blow dryer.
- Start at the roots and work in small sections, moving the diffuser up and down your hair.
The Importance of Using Lightweight Products for Wavy Curly Hair
Unlike heavier formulas packed with multiple oils and butters, lightweight products are designed to enhance your natural texture without weighing it down. Many are made with plant-based oils and ingredients, but it’s important to note that not all ‘natural oils’ are light. Their weight depends on their chemical structure—for example, coconut oil is natural, but it’s quite heavy and tends to solidify, making it less ideal for fine or wavy hair.
By selecting lightweight products, you can maintain your curls’ health and definition while preserving volume and bounce.
For a step-by-step breakdown of how to tell the difference between lightweight and heavy products—and the science behind it—read my blog post, “The Stupid Simple Guide to Identifying Heavy and Lightweight Curly Hair Products.”
Type 2 Wavy Hair Products
With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to know which products will create defined waves that actually hold their shape.
To make it easier, we’ve put together a curated list of our favorite wavy hair products perfect for any combination of wavy textures to help you start building a routine that enhances your natural pattern and keeps your waves looking their best.
Aussie Miracle Waves Hemp Conditioner
The proof is not only in the name but in the formula. It is made with Kakadu plum and Australian hemp seed extracts. This conditioner offers wavy curly hair with ultimate softness and moisture while fighting frizz. As a dual hydrator and definer, this gives your waves everything they need without weighing curls down. Set yourself up for a great hair day with a texture-perfection product.
Jessicurl Daily Conditioner
Keep your curly waves in check from moisture to length and everything in between with this Jessicurl Daily Conditioner.
It is made with aloe and infused with coconut, jojoba, and avocado oil. This conditioner is designed to strengthen the hair for optimal length and nourishment.
Wavy curly hair is known for roller coaster seasons of growth, but this conditioner helps prevent breakage and retains the length you want to preserve.
Olaplex No. 8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask
When dealing with curly, wavy hair, there’s no such thing as adding too much volume. The Olaplex No. 8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask uses a bond-building technology that adds body and shine while improving manageability.
One treatment can help you rebuild your curls for defined and healthier-looking waves that you’ll be proud to show off anytime. When incorporating this mask into your routine, you will have reduced split ends, frizz, and flyaways.
Bounce Curl Ayurvedic Deep Conditioner
For a more natural approach to achieving greatness for curly wavy hair, the Bounce Curl Ayurvedic Deep Conditioner focuses on formula as a priority.
It is made with natural and plant-based ingredients. This deep conditioner offers a clear path toward moisturized and smooth hair. While still lightweight, the benefits are undeniable with just one use. Even the peachy scent will make you feel like you’re doing something right for your waves.
Depending on your needs, you can use this as a regular or deep conditioner.
Use 'muse' at Bounce Curl's checkout for a discount.
Briogeo Curl Charisma Crème
When you have curl waves, it’s only a matter of time before humidity strikes and sends your hair all over the place. Keep your spirals free from frizz and frozen with definition with this product.
It is infused with rice amino acids and avocado oil and works overtime to help your curly, wavy hair retain moisture and reduce frizz. The bonus is that this product has an extra creamy, lightweight texture, so it never flakes or feels sticky.
Living Proof Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray
Your waves deserve instant volume and texture when they need it most. This spray offers a “light as air” approach to styling curls. If you hate whenever your hair falls flat, create some volume that lasts with this spray that doesn’t disappoint you.
This product will likely offer better results even if your hair rejects different crèmes or gels. It doesn’t leave a waxy residue like other texture sprays and is a true game-changer for how you style your hair. Whether you like incorporating braids or extreme body, this spray won’t disappoint you.
Pattern Beauty Argan Oil Hair Serum
The Pattern Beauty Argan Oil Hair Serum is formulated with a remarkable blend of argan oil, sweet almond oil, apricot oil, sunflower oil, castor oil, and shea oil. It offers the ultimate nourishment for your curly, wavy crown.
With recorded results in just 14 days, it will exceed your overall health and strength expectations. It is a carefully crafted serum that narrows into the hair follicles, which is especially important for those who suffer from dryness and thinning stemming from various scalp concerns.
By helping to seal the hair shaft and prevent dryness, this product works in overload for curly, wavy strands.
Cantu Sturdy Double Lift Pick
If you’re a curly girl with waves, you may look for new ways to bring your hair to heights. While still maintaining definition and shine, the Cantu Sturdy Double Lift Pick is a small win for every wavy-haired beauty.
Instead of using your fingers to fluff and volumize, causing friction and frizz, this hair tool elevates your style to create more body and the desired look you want to achieve.
Use it by gently lifting your hair away from the scalp to form a rainbow effect of fullness and texture.
FAQs
Is wavy hair a type of curly hair?
Yes, wavy hair is curly hair, albeit falling between the straight and curly hair types.
Is wavy hair curly or straight?
Wavy hair is curly hair that is not straight nor entirely curly but has some bends to give it more texture and shape.
Is 2A hair considered wavy?
Yes, 2A hair is considered wavy and can be mistaken for straight hair that is not brushed or has a ponytail or braided dents.
Does the Curly Girl Method work on wavy hair?
The Curly Girl Method can work on wavy hair and is recommended to give a more defined pattern.
Are gels good for wavy hair?
Yes, gels are fantastic for wavy hair. They help to define your waves and hold them in place. Here is a list of our favorite 25 gels.
References
- Ws. (2011, August 21). Science-y hair blog: Wavy pride. Science-y Hair Blog. https://science-yhairblog.blogspot.com/2011/08/wavy-pride.html ↩︎
- Cloete, E., Khumalo, N. P., & Ngoepe, M. N. (2019). The what, why and how of curly hair: A review. Proceedings. Mathematical, Physical, and Engineering Sciences, 475(2231), 20190516. https://doi.org/10.1098/rspa.2019.0516 ↩︎
- MacLeman, E. (2022, December 8). Amodimethicone – curly hair: Should you be using amodimethicone? The Dermatology Review. https://thedermreview.com/curly-hair-should-you-be-using-amodimethicone/
↩︎ - McKay, T. (2007, July 1). Amodimethicone and other Amine-functionalized Silicones. NaturallyCurly.Com. https://www.naturallycurly.com/curlreading/curl-products/curlchemist-amodimethicone-and-other-amine-functionalized-silicones ↩︎
- Ws. (2011, September 24). Science-y hair blog: Porosity in hair. Science-y Hair Blog. https://science-yhairblog.blogspot.com/2011/09/porosity-in-hair.html ↩︎
- Low porosity hair: What it is, characteristics, and care. (2022, May 3). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/low-porosity-hair ↩︎
