Wavy hair (type 2) sits between straight and curly: it forms S-shaped bends rather than full loops. Different parts of the same head often show different patterns — a 2026 dermatology review notes curl pattern can vary with scalp location.
Waves sit somewhere between the American Academy of Dermatology's advice for straight hair (condition the ends) and for curly hair (condition the full length), so experiment to see what your hair prefers. Heavy products can flatten a loose wave.
Care priorities
Light conditioners and leave-ins rather than rich butters.
Detangle gently while conditioner is in, with a wide-tooth comb.
Low heat with a diffuser, or air-drying, to keep the wave pattern.
Expect variation: different parts of your head may be 2A and 2C.
The patterns
2A: Loose, barely-there S-shaped waves.
2B: Clearer S-waves, usually from mid-length down.
2C: Defined S-waves from near the root, sometimes with the odd ringlet.
Care basics
Washing
Wash as often as your scalp needs; many people with waves find every few days works, but oiliness is the best guide.
Conditioning
Condition the mid-lengths and ends; a light leave-in can help waves form without weighing them down.
Styling
Scrunch in a light curl product on wet hair and dry with a diffuser on low heat, or let it dry with minimal touching.
Night-time
A loose plait or loose high ponytail with a soft tie helps waves survive the night.
Key ingredients: Genamine-si technology; moisturising agents (ingredient list includes niacinamide, castor seed oil and hydrolysed wheat, corn and soy proteins)
Key features: High-velocity airflow (Shark: 0-100 mph in under a second); Scalp Shield Mode that lowers the air temperature for scalp comfort and root drying; Shark says temperature is measured and regulated 1,000 times a second and never exceeds 110°C; settings adjust automatically to each attachment; 240 V. In the box: main unit, Turbo Concentrator, QuickSmooth Brush, FrizzFighter Finishing Tool, Express TouchUp Brush, diffuser (DefrizzFast Diffuser) and storage bag. 2-year guarantee on registration (UK & ROI).
Key features: Brushless motor delivering 75 mph airflow (as stated on the retailer page); 'Aeroprecis' technology (described as a combination of four advanced internal elements); patented etched air-intake grille; internal impeller to reduce air turbulence; contoured precision nozzle; variable power and temperature controls with cool shot; acoustic system for lower noise; 9 ft power cable; UK 3-pin plug; 2-year manufacturer warranty.
Key features: 2000W motor; air speeds up to 120 km/h (Remington figure); 8 heat/speed combinations (per the product page; the booklet describes a heat switch with low/medium/high, a fast/slow speed button and a cool shot button); Thermacare sensor that Remington says regulates air temperature to protect against extreme heat. Attachments: Slim Styling Concentrator, Flyaway Tamer, Gentle Drying Diffuser and Curl Defining Diffuser (magnetic prongs that fit the diffuser bowl). Also has a hang-up loop and comes with a storage bag.
