Beach waves are the ultimate hairstyle for effortless, breezy elegance. While curling irons are a popular tool for achieving this look, straighteners can also create stunning waves with the right technique.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to create waves with straighteners. Following our few simple steps will help you get a chic, wavy hairstyle that looks like you just stepped off the beach, perfect for your day at the seaside or special occasion.
1. Prepare Your Hair for Heat Styling
Proper preparation is essential for achieving great results when styling your hair with straighteners. You can give your hair a great foundation for bouncy waves by washing it using a volumising shampoo and lightweight conditioner.
You can either let your hair air dry, or blow dry it using a professional standard hair dryer to ensure it’s completely dry and free of moisture before applying heat.
Before styling and drying your hair, apply a heat protectant to prevent breakage or dryness. Finally, gently detangle your hair with a brush so that it’s smooth and ready for styling.
2. Choose the Right Straighteners
When curling your hair with straighteners, it’s key to use the best tools that provide consistent results and prevent damage. Our Creativity Infrared Straightener is perfect for creating beach waves for all types of hair, as it has 11 adjustable heat settings ranging from 130° to 230°, so you can tailor the temperature to your hair type.
This straightener is designed using ceramic materials, which is ideal when styling with heat, as it provides even heat distribution and helps reduce frizz, leaving your waves smooth and shiny.
3. Section Your Hair
Sectioning your hair is crucial to achieving even, consistent waves. Start by dividing your hair into layers, clipping up the top sections so you can work on the bottom layers first. Within each layer, separate your hair into small, one-inch sections for more defined waves, or slightly larger sections if you prefer a looser, beachier effect.
Keeping the unused sections clipped out of the way will keep your hair organised, and make it easier to focus on the hair you are currently styling. Although this may add time to the process, it will ensure all sections are styled evenly for a professional-looking finish.
4. Wave Small Sections
Now that your hair is prepped and sectioned, it’s time to start creating waves.
Take a small section of hair, clamp the straightener near the roots, and twist it 180 degrees away from your face. Slowly glide the straightener down the length of your hair while maintaining the twist. For a more natural, untidy look, alternate the direction of the twists.
Instead of using your straightener at the roots, you can also start in the middle of your hair, which will give you a more relaxed wave. Test both methods so you can find the one that best suits your style.
Keep your grip on the straightener relaxed and move steadily to avoid creating creases or uneven waves
5. Repeat The Process
Continue the waving process by working through each section of hair layer by layer. We recommend starting with the bottom sections so the hair that’s already been styled doesn’t get in the way as you move upward.
Learning how to create beach waves with straighteners can take time to master, so if you’re unhappy with how a section looks, you can always go over it again.
6. Add Finishing Touches
Once you’ve finished styling all your sections, and you’re happy with your beachy waves, you can take your look to the next level.
Use your fingers to gently separate and soften the waves for a relaxed, beachy texture. Adding a texturising or sea salt spray to give your hair more of a natural look, while also providing some hold and volume.
Finally, finish off your look with a light mist of hairspray to set your style in place without making it feel stiff, locking your hair into place for the whole day.
And that’s it! Now you should have a gorgeous, effortless beach wave hairstyle, ready for your day at the beach, night out, or any special occasion. The key to achieving the best beach waves is patience, practice, and a high-quality hair straightener.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Creating Waves With Straighteners
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Skipping Heat Protectant: This can lead to long-term damage.
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Using the Wrong Straighteners: Flat plates or overly wide tools won’t produce optimal results.
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Overheating Hair: Always use the lowest effective heat setting for your hair type.
Beach Waves With Straighteners FAQs
How Long Does It Take to Wave Hair With Straighteners?
This largely depends on your hair length and thickness. On average, it takes about 20–40 minutes to wave your entire head. If you plan on washing your hair beforehand, the process will take longer because you will need to dry your hair first.
Alternatively, you may prefer to use a beach waves curler tool, instead of straighteners.
How Long Do Beach Waves Last?
Beach waves can last all day with the right styling products. Using a high-quality hairspray can help you maintain your wavy look for hours.
Can I Create Waves on Short Hair?
Absolutely! Straighteners are versatile tools and work well on short hair. Use smaller sections, and you typically don’t need to curl the very bottom of your hair.
