As someone with naturally wavy hair, you may have noticed that when you brush it, it tends to go straight. This can be frustrating, especially if you want to maintain your natural waves. In this blog post, we’ll explore why this happens and what you can do to keep your waves intact.
Why Does Brushing Straighten Wavy Hair?
When you brush your wavy hair, you’re essentially separating the curls from one another. This causes the hair to lose its natural pattern and become straighter. Additionally, brushing can create tension on the hair, which can also cause it to lose its shape.
Another factor that can contribute to straightening wavy hair is the type of brush you use. If you’re using a brush with stiff bristles, it can be too harsh on your delicate waves and cause them to straighten out. Instead, opt for a wide-toothed comb or a brush with soft bristles.
How to Maintain Wavy Hair While Brushing
While brushing can straighten wavy hair, there are ways to maintain your natural waves. Here are some tips:
1. Brush Your Hair Before Washing
Before you hop in the shower, give your hair a good brush to detangle any knots. This will help prevent further tangling and matting once your hair is wet. Be sure to use a wide-toothed comb or a brush with soft bristles to avoid straightening your waves.
2. Use a Detangling Spray
A detangling spray can help make brushing your hair easier and less damaging. Look for a spray that’s specifically formulated for wavy or curly hair, as these will help enhance your natural waves as well.
3. Brush Your Hair While Wet
If you must brush your hair while it’s wet, be sure to use a wide-toothed comb or a brush with soft bristles. Wet hair is more delicate and prone to damage, so be gentle when brushing it.
4. Use a Diffuser
A diffuser attachment on your hair dryer can help enhance your natural waves and prevent them from straightening out. Simply attach the diffuser to your hair dryer and use it on a low heat setting. Gently scrunch your hair with your hands while drying to encourage your waves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Brush My Wavy Hair Every Day?
It’s best to avoid brushing your wavy hair every day, as this can cause damage and straighten out your waves. Instead, try to brush it only when necessary and use a wide-toothed comb or a brush with soft bristles.
What Products Should I Use for Wavy Hair?
Look for products specifically formulated for wavy or curly hair, as these will help enhance your natural waves. A leave-in conditioner or curl cream can help define your waves and prevent frizz.
How Often Should I Wash My Wavy Hair?
It’s best to wash your wavy hair every 2-3 days, as frequent washing can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause it to dry out. If you must wash it every day, be sure to use a gentle shampoo and conditioner.
Hair Care Tips for Wavy Hair
Here are some additional tips for caring for your wavy hair:
1. Avoid Heat Styling
Heat styling tools, such as flat irons and curling irons, can damage your hair and cause it to lose its natural wave pattern. If you must use heat styling tools, be sure to use a heat protectant spray and keep the heat setting low.
2. Sleep on Silk
Silk pillowcases can help prevent frizz and breakage while you sleep. The smooth surface of the silk won’t rough up your hair like cotton pillowcases can.
3. Trim Your Hair Regularly
Regular trims can help keep your hair healthy and prevent split ends, which can cause your hair to lose its shape.
4. Embrace Your Natural Waves
At the end of the day, it’s important to embrace your natural waves and work with them instead of against them. By following these tips and using the right products, you can enhance your natural waves and keep your hair looking healthy and beautiful.