Finger waves are a classic and elegant hairstyle that can add a touch of glamour to short hair. This technique creates beautiful, S – shaped waves that can be customized to suit different looks and occasions. Whether you’re going for a vintage look or a modern, chic style, finger waves on short hair can be a stunning choice. Here’s a detailed guide on how to achieve this gorgeous hairstyle.
Preparation
Clean and Conditioned Hair
Before starting the finger – waving process, it’s essential to have clean and well – conditioned hair. Wash your short hair with a suitable shampoo that matches your hair type. For example, if you have dry hair, use a moisturizing shampoo. After shampooing, apply a conditioner to make the hair soft and manageable. Rinse thoroughly and gently towel – dry your hair.
Avoid rubbing the hair vigorously as this can cause frizz.
Styling Products
You’ll need some specific styling products to help with the finger – waving process. A styling mousse is a must – have. Apply a small amount of mousse evenly throughout your short hair, starting from the roots and working your way to the ends. The mousse will provide hold and help the waves set. You can also use a light – hold hairspray at this stage to add an extra layer of hold. Another useful product is a small amount of hair oil or serum. This can be applied to the ends of the hair to prevent them from looking dry and to add a smooth finish.
Sectioning the Hair
Divide the Hair into Sections
Use a comb to part your short hair into sections. Depending on the length and thickness of your hair, you can make two to four sections. For example, if you have very short hair, two sections might be sufficient. If your hair is a bit longer or thicker, you may need three or four sections. Clip the sections you’re not working on to keep them out of the way. This makes the finger – waving process more manageable.
Start with the Front Section
Begin with the front section of your hair. This is usually the most visible part and setting the waves correctly here can have a significant impact on the overall look. Use the comb to make a small part at the front, about an inch or two from the hairline. This will be the starting point for the first wave.
Creating the Finger Waves
Making the First Wave
With the front section of hair in your hands, use your index and middle fingers to create the first wave. Place your fingers against the scalp near the part you made. Gently push the hair forward and then back towards the scalp, creating an S – shape. The key is to keep the movement smooth and controlled. As you make the wave, use your other hand to hold the hair in place. You may need to adjust the position of your fingers a few times to get the perfect shape.
Building the Wave Pattern
Once you’ve created the first wave, continue to create the next one. The waves should follow a continuous pattern. For short hair, the waves can be closer together compared to longer hair. As you create each wave, make sure the height and width of the waves are consistent. You can use a comb to smooth the hair between the waves and to make sure there are no bumps or uneven areas. Keep working your way down the section of hair until you reach the end.
Working on Other Sections
After completing the front section, move on to the other sections of your short hair. Repeat the process of creating the finger waves.
Pay attention to how the waves blend with each other at the section boundaries. You may need to adjust the waves slightly to make the transition seamless. As you work on the sides and back of your head, you can make the waves a bit smaller or more subtle if desired.
Setting the Waves
Using a Hairdryer
Once you’ve created the finger waves in all the sections, you can use a hairdryer to set them. Set the hairdryer to a low – heat, low – speed setting. Hold the hairdryer about 6 – 8 inches away from your hair and move it in a circular motion over the waves. This helps to dry the mousse and set the waves in place. Make sure to dry the hair thoroughly but avoid overheating as this can damage the hair.
Final Touches with Hairspray
After drying the waves with the hairdryer, use a stronger – hold hairspray to give the waves a final set. Hold the hairspray about 10 – 12 inches away from your head and spray evenly over the waves. This will ensure that the waves stay in place throughout the day. You can also use your fingers to gently pat the hairspray into the waves for a more natural look.
Styling and Maintenance
Styling Options
Finger – waved short hair can be styled in various ways. You can leave the waves as they are for a classic look. If you want a more modern touch, you can pull a small section of hair from one side and pin it back with a decorative hairpin. Another option is to add a small headband or a ribbon to enhance the vintage feel of the finger waves.
Maintenance Tips
To keep your finger – waved short hair looking great, avoid touching or running your fingers through the waves too often as this can disrupt the shape. If the waves start to lose their hold during the day, you can use a small amount of hairspray to revive them. At night, you can use a satin pillowcase to reduce friction on the hair, which can help preserve the waves. You can also use a wide – toothed comb in the morning to gently smooth the hair if there are any minor disruptions to the wave pattern.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finger – waving short hair requires patience and practice, but the result is a beautiful and unique hairstyle. By following these steps and using the right products, you can achieve stunning finger waves that will turn heads and make you feel confident and stylish. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just for a daily change of look, finger waves on short hair are a great option.