Hollywood waves are synonymous with timeless elegance and vintage glamour. Popularized by iconic stars like Marilyn Monroe and Veronica Lake, this hairstyle is still a favorite on red carpets today. Traditionally achieved with a curling iron, you can also create Hollywood waves using a straightener, which might seem surprising but is entirely doable with the right technique. In this article, we’ll break down the process into simple steps, offering tips and tricks to help you perfect this classic look.
Understanding Hollywood Waves
Before diving into the technique, it’s essential to understand what Hollywood waves are. Hollywood waves are characterized by their smooth, deep, and structured waves that cascade down the hair. Unlike beach waves, which are more relaxed and tousled, Hollywood waves are polished and uniform, giving off an old-Hollywood, glamorous vibe.
Preparing Your Hair for Hollywood Waves
Preparation is key to achieving flawless Hollywood waves. Here’s how to get your hair ready:
1. Wash and Condition Your Hair
Start with clean hair. Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to ensure your hair is soft and smooth.
Rinse thoroughly and towel-dry your hair.
2. Apply Heat Protectant
Apply a heat protectant spray or serum to damp hair. This step is crucial as it shields your hair from the high heat of the straightener.
Distribute the product evenly by combing through your hair with a wide-tooth comb.
3. Blow-Dry Your Hair
Blow-dry your hair until it’s completely dry. Use a round brush to smooth out your hair and add volume at the roots.
Ensure your hair is straight and frizz-free before moving on to the next step.
Choosing the Right Straightener
Not all straighteners are created equal. For Hollywood waves, you’ll need a straightener with the following features:
1. Plate Size
A straightener with 1-inch plates is ideal. This size is versatile enough to create defined waves without making them too tight or too loose.
2. Temperature Control
Opt for a straightener with adjustable temperature settings. This allows you to control the heat based on your hair type. For fine hair, keep the temperature between 300-350°F. For thicker hair, you can go up to 400°F.
3. Rounded Edges
A straightener with slightly rounded edges will make it easier to create smooth waves without harsh lines or kinks.
Sectioning Your Hair
To achieve uniform waves, sectioning your hair properly is crucial. Follow these steps:
1. Divide Hair into Sections
Start by dividing your hair into manageable sections. The number of sections will depend on your hair’s thickness and length. Generally, dividing your hair into four to six sections works well.
2. Clip Away Unused Sections
Use hair clips to hold the sections you’re not working on. This will prevent them from getting in the way and ensure each section is styled evenly.
3. Start from the Bottom
Begin styling from the bottom layers and work your way up. This method ensures that you don’t miss any sections and that the waves blend seamlessly.
Creating Hollywood Waves with a Straightener
Now that your hair is prepped and sectioned, it’s time to start creating those glamorous waves.
1. Clamp and Twist
Take a small section of hair (about 1 inch wide). Clamp the straightener near the root of the hair.
Rotate the straightener away from your face while gliding it down the hair shaft. The twist and glide motion is crucial for creating smooth, even waves.
2. Release and Repeat
Release the hair once you reach the ends. You should see a wave form instantly.
Continue this process, alternating the direction of the twist for a more natural look or keeping it consistent for a more structured wave.
3. Focus on Uniformity
Consistency is key. Ensure that the size of the sections and the twist are uniform across your head. This will give the waves a cohesive, polished appearance.
4. Allow Waves to Cool
After creating a wave, allow it to cool before touching it. This helps set the wave, making it last longer.
You can clip each wave in place with a duckbill clip to help maintain its shape while it cools.
Finishing Touches for Perfect Hollywood Waves
Once all your hair is waved, it’s time to refine and set the style.
1. Brush Out the Waves
Use a boar bristle brush or a wide-tooth comb to gently brush through the waves. This step smooths out the waves and gives them that classic Hollywood finish.
For a more defined look, you can use your fingers to separate and sculpt the waves.
2. Apply Hairspray
Set your waves with a light mist of flexible hold hairspray. This will help the waves stay in place without making them stiff or crunchy.
For added shine, you can also apply a light glossing spray.
3. Tame Flyaways
Use a small amount of hair serum or oil to smooth any flyaways or frizz. Focus on the ends and any areas that need extra polish.
4. Check for Balance
Ensure that both sides of your hair are symmetrical. If needed, touch up any areas that may need a little more definition or smoothing.
SEE ALSO: How to Naturally Make Straight Hair Wavy?
Tips for Long-Lasting Hollywood Waves
To keep your Hollywood waves looking flawless throughout the day or night, follow these tips:
1. Use a Humidity-Resistant Product
If you’re in a humid environment, use a humidity-resistant spray or serum to prevent your waves from falling flat.
2. Avoid Touching Your Hair
Try to avoid touching your hair too much throughout the day. The natural oils from your hands can weigh down the waves and cause them to lose their shape.
3. Refresh as Needed
If your waves start to lose their shape, you can refresh them with a quick touch-up using your straightener. Focus on the sections that need the most attention, and avoid over-styling to keep the waves looking natural.
4. Sleep with Care
If you want to maintain your waves overnight, loosely braid your hair or wrap it in a silk scarf before bed. This will help preserve the wave pattern and reduce frizz.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Creating Hollywood waves with a straightener can be tricky, especially if you’re new to the technique. Here’s how to troubleshoot some common problems:
1. Waves Are Too Tight
If your waves are coming out too tight, try taking larger sections of hair and reducing the amount of twist in the straightener.
2. Waves Aren’t Holding
If your waves aren’t holding, it could be due to the straightener not being hot enough. Increase the temperature slightly and make sure you’re using a strong-hold hairspray.
3. Uneven Waves
Uneven waves can result from inconsistent section sizes or not maintaining the same pressure and speed when gliding the straightener. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if it takes a few tries to get it right.
4. Kinks and Lines
If you’re getting kinks or lines in your waves, it’s likely due to clamping the straightener too tightly or not moving it smoothly down the hair. Relax your grip and focus on creating a fluid motion.
Conclusion
Creating Hollywood waves with a straightener is a skill that can elevate your hairstyling game, giving you a red carpet-ready look that’s perfect for special occasions or any time you want to feel glamorous. With practice and the right techniques, you can master this classic style and enjoy the elegance and sophistication that Hollywood waves bring. Remember, patience and preparation are key, and with a bit of time and effort, you’ll be able to create flawless waves that turn heads wherever you go.