Beach waves are the ultimate effortless, tousled hairstyle that works for any occasion, whether you’re going for a casual, boho look or a chic, red-carpet vibe. The best part? You don’t need to be at the beach to get them!
Here’s how to achieve perfect beach waves using heat styling, no-heat methods, and the best products for long-lasting waves.
🛠️ What You’ll Need:
✔️ Heat Protectant Spray (if using heat tools)
✔️ Curling Wand, Flat Iron, or Blow Dryer with Diffuser (for heat styling)
✔️ Sea Salt Spray or Texture Spray (for volume & hold)
✔️ Wide-Tooth Comb or Fingers (for soft, undone waves)
✔️ Hairspray or Lightweight Mousse (for long-lasting hold)
🔥 METHOD 1: Heat Styling for Perfect Beach Waves
If you want quick, defined waves, a curling wand, flat iron, or diffuser is the fastest way to create long-lasting beachy curls.
🌊 1. Beach Waves with a Curling Wand
✔️ Step 1: Apply heat protectant spray to dry hair.
✔️ Step 2: Divide hair into sections for easier styling.
✔️ Step 3: Wrap 1-inch sections of hair around the curling wand, leaving the ends out for a natural look.
✔️ Step 4: Alternate curl directions for a messy, effortless effect.
✔️ Step 5: Let curls cool, then shake them out with your fingers.
✔️ Step 6: Spray with sea salt spray or texturizing spray for extra hold.
💡 Pro Tip: Use a wider barrel curling wand (1.25-1.5 inches) for looser waves.
🔥 2. Beach Waves with a Flat Iron (Straightener Hack!)
✔️ Step 1: Start with dry, brushed hair.
✔️ Step 2: Take a small section of hair, clamp it with the straightener, and twist your wrist outward while gliding down.
✔️ Step 3: Repeat on all sections, switching curl directions for a natural wave pattern.
✔️ Step 4: Finish with texture spray and a light-hold hairspray.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t curl the ends—leaving them straight gives a more relaxed, beachy feel.
🌬️ 3. Beach Waves with a Blow Dryer & Diffuser
This method is perfect for naturally wavy or curly hair!
✔️ Step 1: Start with damp hair and apply a curl-enhancing mousse.
✔️ Step 2: Flip your head upside down and use a diffuser attachment to dry hair in a scrunching motion.
✔️ Step 3: Once dry, separate waves with your fingers and apply sea salt spray for texture.
💡 Pro Tip: Using a cool setting at the end adds shine and reduces frizz!
🌿 METHOD 2: No-Heat Beach Waves (Overnight & Natural Methods)
If you prefer damage-free styling, try these heatless techniques for soft, natural beach waves.
🌙 1. Overnight Braids for Natural Waves
✔️ Step 1: Start with damp, towel-dried hair.
✔️ Step 2: Divide hair into two or more braids (tighter braids = tighter waves).
✔️ Step 3: Sleep overnight, then undo braids in the morning.
✔️ Step 4: Spritz with sea salt spray and scrunch for texture.
💡 Pro Tip: Use a silk pillowcase to prevent frizz while sleeping.
🌀 2. Heatless Twists for Soft Waves
✔️ Step 1: Apply a lightweight mousse to damp hair.
✔️ Step 2: Divide hair into two sections and twist each side tightly.
✔️ Step 3: Secure with hair ties and leave overnight.
✔️ Step 4: Undo twists in the morning and separate waves with your fingers.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, blow-dry twists for 5-10 minutes for faster results.
🧢 3. The Headband Method for Loose Waves
✔️ Step 1: Place a soft fabric headband around your head.
✔️ Step 2: Wrap small sections of hair around the band until all hair is tucked in.
✔️ Step 3: Sleep with the headband on.
✔️ Step 4: Remove it in the morning and shake out soft waves.
💡 Pro Tip: This method works best on shoulder-length or longer hair.
✨ The Best Products for Long-Lasting Beach Waves
🔹 Best Sea Salt Spray: Ouai Wave Spray – Adds lightweight texture without crunchiness.
🔹 Best Texturizing Spray: Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray – Gives volume & hold.
🔹 Best Lightweight Mousse: Moroccanoil Curl Control Mousse – Defines waves without stiffness.
🔹 Best Heat Protectant: CHI 44 Iron Guard – Shields hair from heat damage.
🔹 Best Hairspray: L’Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray – Keeps waves soft & touchable.
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid using too much product—beach waves should look natural, not stiff!
📌 Extra Tips for the Perfect Beach Waves
✅ Don’t over-brush your waves—use fingers or a wide-tooth comb instead.
✅ For extra shine, apply a tiny amount of argan oil to the ends.
✅ Layer different curling techniques for a more effortless look.
✅ If your waves fall flat, flip your head upside down and reapply texture spray!
🌊 Final Thoughts: Your Go-To Beach Wave Routine
Whether you love heat styling or prefer no-heat methods, beach waves are effortless, chic, and versatile. Try out different techniques to see which works best for your hair type and enjoy gorgeous waves year-round!
💇♀️ Which method will you try first? Let us know in the comments! ✨