Beach waves are the ultimate effortless, tousled hairstyle that works for any occasion. Whether you’re heading to work, a casual outing, or a fancy event, loose, natural-looking waves add a touch of beauty and elegance. The best part? You don’t need to be at the beach to achieve this look!
In this guide, I’ll show you several methods to create perfect beach waves, whether you’re using heat or going heatless.
Method 1: Beach Waves with a Curling Wand
Using a curling wand is one of the fastest ways to achieve defined yet relaxed waves.
What You’ll Need:
✅ Curling wand (1 to 1.5 inches in diameter)
✅ Heat protectant spray
✅ Light-hold hairspray
✅ Wide-tooth comb or fingers
✅ Texturizing spray or sea salt spray
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Prep Your Hair:
- Apply a heat protectant spray to prevent damage.
- If you have fine hair, use a volumizing mousse for added texture.
2️⃣ Section Your Hair:
- Divide your hair into two or three sections for easier styling.
3️⃣ Start Curling:
- Take a 1-inch section of hair and wrap it away from your face around the curling wand.
- Leave the ends out of the wand for a more relaxed, undone wave.
- Hold for 5-8 seconds, then release.
4️⃣ Alternate Directions:
- To create a natural look, curl some pieces toward your face and some away.
5️⃣ Break Up the Waves:
- Once all hair is curled, run your fingers or a wide-tooth comb through the curls to soften them.
6️⃣ Finish with a Texturizing Spray:
- Use sea salt spray or texturizing spray to enhance the beachy feel.
- Lightly mist with hairspray for extra hold.
Method 2: Beach Waves with a Flat Iron
A flat iron can create loose, natural waves with a different texture than a curling wand.
What You’ll Need:
✅ Flat iron
✅ Heat protectant spray
✅ Hairspray or texturizing spray
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Apply Heat Protectant:
- Protect your hair from damage by applying a heat protectant spray before styling.
2️⃣ Section Your Hair:
- Divide hair into upper and lower layers for even styling.
3️⃣ Create Waves:
- Take a 1-inch section of hair and clamp the flat iron near the roots.
- Twist the flat iron away from your face as you glide it down the strand.
- Release the hair before reaching the ends for a more undone look.
4️⃣ Repeat & Alternate Directions:
- Repeat for all sections, alternating between twisting away and toward your face for a natural, effortless effect.
5️⃣ Loosen the Waves:
- Once done, finger comb through the waves to create an effortless, messy vibe.
6️⃣ Finish with Sea Salt Spray:
- Mist with a sea salt spray or texturizing spray for a true beachy finish.
Method 3: Heatless Beach Waves (Overnight Braids Method)
If you prefer a no-heat option, try braiding your hair before bed for natural waves in the morning.
What You’ll Need:
✅ Damp hair
✅ Hair ties
✅ Sea salt spray or mousse
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Start with Damp Hair:
- Either wash your hair or mist it with water until slightly damp.
2️⃣ Apply a Styling Product:
- Use mousse, sea salt spray, or a leave-in conditioner to enhance wave formation.
3️⃣ Braid Your Hair:
- For looser waves, create two or three large braids.
- For tighter waves, do four or more smaller braids.
4️⃣ Sleep On It:
- Leave the braids in overnight for heatless waves.
5️⃣ Undo & Style:
- Gently unravel the braids in the morning and use your fingers to separate the waves.
- Finish with a light-hold hairspray or texturizing spray.
Method 4: Beach Waves with a Twisting Technique (No Heat!)
Another heatless method is to twist your hair into buns or knots for a soft, natural wave pattern.
What You’ll Need:
✅ Damp hair
✅ Hair ties or clips
✅ Light styling mousse or cream
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Dampen Your Hair:
- Start with slightly damp hair for better wave definition.
2️⃣ Twist Sections:
- Divide your hair into two or four sections and twist each section into a small bun.
- Secure with a hair tie or clip.
3️⃣ Leave for Several Hours:
- Let your hair air dry naturally or leave the twists in overnight.
4️⃣ Undo & Style:
- Once dry, release the twists and separate waves with your fingers.
- Spritz with sea salt spray for a more beachy texture.
Tips for Long-Lasting Beach Waves
✔️ Start with Clean, Dry Hair – Freshly washed hair can sometimes be too soft, so use a texturizing spray or dry shampoo for better hold.
✔️ Don’t Over-Curl – Beach waves should be loose and undone, so don’t hold heat too long or over-style.
✔️ Use the Right Products – A sea salt spray, dry shampoo, or light mousse will help you achieve the perfect effortless texture.
✔️ Sleep in a Loose Bun or Braid – If you want to keep your waves overnight, lightly braid or twist your hair before bed.
✔️ Avoid Heavy Products – Too much hairspray or oil can weigh your waves down and make them look stiff.
Final Thoughts
Beach waves are a timeless, easy-to-create hairstyle that suits any hair type or occasion. Whether you prefer using heat styling tools or going for a heatless method, these techniques will give you the perfect effortless waves every time.
💁♀️ Which method will you try first? Let us know in the comments! 🌊✨