The wavy hair texture is called Type 2 hair on the most popular hair classification chart.
It’s in between straight (type 1) and curly (type 3) hair, so it’s pretty unique and versatile.
Curious about the type 2 wavy hair texture?
This post discusses everything — characteristics, types, how to identify, pros, cons, and best hair care products for wavy hair types!
What is the Wavy Hair Texture (or Type 2 Hair)?
The wavy hair texture refers to hair with loose, S-shaped waves along the strands.
It has more volume than straight hair but less curl than curly hair, giving it a natural, beachy look.
Wavy hair is common among Caucasians and Europeans.
But there isn’t just one type of wavy hair; it can show up in slightly different types too.
Types of Wavy Hair Texture
There are three types of Type 2 hair.
Type 2A Hair
Type 2A is the least wavy type 2 hair.
The hair strands form very loose waves, as seen in the picture above.
2A wavy hair is easy to straighten because the hair strands are pretty close to being straight.
Type 2B Hair
2B hair has more waves than 2A hair.
I’d call it the ideal wavy hair, not too close to being straight or curly.
Type 2C Hair
As you can tell, 2C hair has the most waves.
The hair strands form a tighter ”S” compared to the other two.
It’s easier to curl 2C hair than to straighten it because the strands are already close to being curly.
It’s the fullest and most bouncy type 2 hair but also the most likely to knot and tangle.
Here’s an example of 2C hair.
How do I know if my hair is wavy?
It can be a bit tricky to identify wavy hair.
Some people with wavy hair may even think they have straight hair.
So, here are a few tips to tell:
- Wash your hair, then let it dry naturally (no heat tools, hair brush, or hair products). If it’s neither straight nor curly, then you have wavy hair.
- If your hair is “straight” but shrinks or forms waves when you wash it, you actually have wavy hair.
- If your “straight hair” is usually puffy or frizzy, it’s likely wavy (or at least some part is wavy).
Pros of Wavy Hair Texture
Here’s what’s great about the wavy hair texture.
Summary: Wavy hair has natural volume, different styling options, easy maintenance, and looks great at any length.
Natural Movement and Volume
Wavy hair naturally has more volume and body than straight hair.
Without extensive styling, the waves form a bouncy, lively appearance that Type 1 hair can only dream of.
Versatile Styling Options
Type 2 wavy hair holds curls and styles better than straight hair.
Plus, you can easily take it to either end of the hair texture spectrum.
You can straighten it to get a sleek type 1 hair look or enhance the waves for a full, curly type 3 look.
It’s pretty much fun being in the middle!
Low Maintenance
Another good about being in the middle is that you get the good of both worlds.
Wavy hair doesn’t get as oily as straight hair, so you don’t need to wash it as often.
It also doesn’t knot or tangle like curly or kinky hair, so it’s easier to manage daily (detangling, combing, and the like).
Adaptability to Humidity
Humidity affects every hair type, but the wavy hair texture still fares better.
It won’t quickly go limp like straight hair or become very frizzy like curly hair.
Wavy hair strikes a balance and maintains some shape and volume even in humid conditions.
Great at any Length
Type 2 hair looks great at any length — short bob, medium-length cut, or long, flowing hair.
The natural wavy pattern gives it a versatile base for trying different looks.
Cons of the Wavy Hair Texture
Now, here are the issues with wavy hair.
Summary: Wavy hair texture is prone to dryness, heat damage, tangles and knots, product buildup and takes time to style.
Dryness
Compared to straight hair, wavy hair (especially 2C wavy hair) is prone to dryness and split ends.
Its strands are not entirely straight, so natural oils cannot flow through as easily as in straight hair.
Prone to Heat Damage
People with wavy hair may want to straighten or curl their hair using heat tools.
If they use them often, the hair may become damaged quickly.
Uneven Texture
Wavy hair can have an inconsistent texture, with some areas being more wavy than others.
This unevenness can complicate styling, as different hair sections may require different levels of attention and products to create a uniform look.
Tangles and Knots
Wavy hair can become knotted and tangled when exposed to the wind or after sleeping without night care.
However, it’s way better than curly hair when it comes to tangling.
Product Buildup
The curlier the hair, the more products you need for hair care.
So, wavy hair requires more products (for defining waves, reducing frizz, or adding moisture) than type 1 hair.
Without proper care, these products can build up over time, leaving the hair weighed down and potentially causing scalp issues.
Time-consuming Styling
Styling wavy hair can be time-consuming for people who want a polished, straight pattern.
The hair will want to revert to its natural wave, so It’s also pretty hard to maintain a straightened style with Type 2 hair.
How to Care for Wavy Hair Texture (or Type 2 Hair)
Here are tips to get the most out of your wavy hair type.
Less Comb, More Fingers
Your fingers are kinder to your hair than combs, so finger-detangle as often as possible. When you need a comb, make sure you use the wide-toothed type.
Also, avoid brushing your wavy hair when dry, as it can disrupt the wave pattern. Comb your hair when it is wet only.
Hydrate and Moisturize Regularly
Moisturize and hydrate your hair to prevent frizz.
Use hydrating sprays and mists during the day if your hair feels dry.
And, of course, drink enough water to hydrate your hair from within.
Use the Right Shampoo and Conditioner
Use sulfate and paraben-free shampoos only.
How often should you shampoo wavy hair?
Twice a week is fine to prevent drying out.
And make sure to always follow up with a conditioner.
Use hydrating but lightweight hair conditioners to moisten your hair without weighing it down.
Ensure Protein-Moisture Balance
If you focus on only protein treatments, you’ll end up with a protein overload hair issue.
If you focus on moisturizing alone, your hair may become moisture-overloaded.
So make sure you’re doing both.
Enhance Your Waves
Use these tips to enhance your waves so they stay pretty and defined:
- Apply hair styling products when your hair is very wet so that the product can spread evenly.
- Spray your hair with water during the day to help products last longer.
Use the Right Hair Products
Look out for products specifically designed for wavy hair; they’ll enhance your waves without leaving them crunchy.
You’ll need things like anti-frizz sprays, mousses, and styling creams.
Make sure your choice of each product is lightweight to prevent weighing down the hair.
Use the Scrunch Technique
Scrunch your hair after washing or using products by cupping the strands in a towel or your hands and gently squeezing it in a way that shapes your waves.
Dry Your Hair Properly
Whenever possible, air-dry your hair to maintain the natural wave pattern and reduce frizz.
If you need to use a blow dryer, attach a diffuser to distribute heat evenly and enhance your waves.
And don’t use just any towel to rub your hair after washing.
Use a microfiber towel or a cotton T-shirt to gently scrunch your hair dry. This helps reduce frizz compared to regular towels.
Embrace Hair Night Care
At night, loosely tie your hair on top of your head (like a pineapple) to help preserve your waves.
Also, sleep on silk or satin pillowcases to reduce friction and frizz.
Trimming
If you notice any split ends, trim them off immediately so they don’t get worse.
Split ends are weak, unhealthy-looking hair ends.
Limit Heat Styling
Flaunt your waves as much as possible.
Don’t always straighten with flat irons or curl with curling irons.
The few times you use heat, apply a heat protectant spray to shield your hair from damage.
Best Wavy Hair Texture Products (Type 2 Hair)
Here are the best products for styling and caring for wavy hair.
Sun Bum Wavy Hair Shampoo
This shampoo has a 4.5-star review on Amazon, with many happy customers.
It enhances waves, making the hair bouncy and fuller after washing. It also has a pleasant scent.
The major issue customers had was with the packaging.
Davines LOVE Curl Conditioner (Wavy Hair Conditioner)
This lightweight shampoo from Davines is renowned for softening the hair.
A user with 2b hair mentioned in the review that this product provides “the perfect amount of moisture” to her hair.
However, there were mixed opinions about the smell.
Some also said it weighed their hair down.
John Frieda Styling Foam for Wavy Hair
Need a styling foam to make your hair curly?
This product does that without making the hair frizzy.
Reviews mention that it works best on wet hair, especially when you let it air dry or use a diffuser.
However, it seems it doesn’t do much for people with loose waves.
LUS Styler for Wavy Hair
This styling product enlivens waves and curls, and over 5,000 buyers have given it an overall 4.3-star.
Many love how it leaves the hair soft and non-crunchy.
This product is best for fine, wavy hair.
Universal Hair Diffuser for Wavy Hair
If you’re using heat for your wavy hair, at least be prepared with a heat diffuser.
This one’s a detachable diffuser that you can fix to your hair dryer, and reviews mention that it fits most dryers.
It does the job of spreading heat effectively, resulting in bouncier waves.
However, this diffuser is said to be pretty heavy.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wavy Hair Texture
Still curious?
Here are answers to some popular questions about type 2 wavy hair texture.
How do I know if my hair is wavy?
Your hair is wavy if it’s neither straight nor curly when dry.
The hair strands should form a loose “S” shape.
Is wavy hair fine or coarse?
Wavy hair is somewhere in the middle. It’s not fine like straight hair or coarse like curly and kinky hair.
Can wavy hair become curly?
Yes, that’s possible. Your hair texture may change over time, giving you curls.
You can also use hair styling products to make your hair curly, especially if you have 2C wavy hair.
Is wavy hair attractive?
Definitely!
Wavy hair is beautiful and vibrant; some with straight hair even struggle to achieve waves with heat tools.
Beachy, Wavy Strands
Wavy hair combines the ease of straight hair and the bounciness of curly hair, creating a vibrant, beachy vibe.
It’s a unique hair texture, and if you’ve got it naturally, embrace your waves!
Use the hair care tips above to get the best out of your wavy hair.
While at it, explore the best hair products for type 2 hair and have fun with your waves!
Hey, hair lover, this post may contain affiliate links. So if you buy a product through a link in the post, I’ll earn some commission at no extra cost to you.
