If there’s one thing we all know about curly and wavy hair, it’s that no two heads of hair are the same. Whether your hair falls into soft, beachy waves or tight, defined ringlets, one thing’s for sure—each hair type requires a unique care routine to thrive. So, how do you figure out which products and techniques are best for your specific hair texture? And what’s the real difference between curly and wavy hair?

At The Curl Co., we’re here to help you navigate your unique texture, whether you're rocking a subtle wave or a full head of spirals. Let’s dive into the world of curly and wavy hair and discover how you can find the perfect routine to keep your hair healthy, frizz-free, and effortlessly gorgeous. (The Curl Co.)

Understanding the Basics: Curly vs. Wavy Hair

Before jumping into routines and products, it's essential to understand the difference between curly and wavy hair. While both types fall under the textured hair umbrella, they have distinct characteristics that impact how you should care for them.

• Wavy Hair: Wavy hair, often categorized as Type 2 in the curl chart, tends to have a loose, S-shaped pattern. It’s somewhere between straight and curly, which can make it a bit tricky to maintain. Wavy hair can sometimes appear flat at the roots with more defined waves toward the ends. While it’s generally easier to manage than curlier hair, wavy textures are prone to frizz, especially in humid conditions.
• Curly Hair: Curly hair, on the other hand, comes in a range of tightness, from loose curls to corkscrew coils (Type 3 to 4 on the curl chart). Curly hair is more voluminous and has a tighter pattern, which makes it prone to dryness, tangling, and—you guessed it—frizz. Curly hair needs more moisture to maintain definition and prevent it from becoming dry and unruly.

Now that we’ve established the differences between wavy and curly hair, let’s get into building the perfect routine for each.

Wavy Hair Routine: Keeping It Light and Defined

When caring for wavy hair, the key is balance. You want products that hydrate and define without weighing your waves down. A common challenge with wavy hair is the fine balance between volume and definition—too much product can lead to limp waves, while too little leaves your hair frizzy and undefined.

1. Start with a Lightweight Cleanser

Since wavy hair doesn’t need as much moisture as curly hair, opt for a lightweight, sulfate-free shampoo like The Curl Co.’s Cleanse and Hydrate Curl Shampoo. This gentle formula will cleanse your hair without stripping it of natural oils, leaving your waves soft and bouncy. ​(The Curl Co.)

2. Use a Light Conditioner

Follow up with a hydrating but lightweight conditioner, like The Curl Co.’s Nourish and Hydrate Curl Conditioner. Apply it mainly to your mid-lengths and ends to avoid weighing down your roots. This step is essential for keeping your waves soft and frizz-free without losing volume. (The Curl Co.)

3. Choose a Lightweight Styling Product

When it comes to styling, less is more with wavy hair. A lightweight curl cream or mousse works wonders. The Curl Co.’s Enhance and Define Softhold Curl Cream is perfect for adding definition without the crunch. Scrunch it into damp hair and let it air-dry for naturally defined waves.

4. Refresh Between Washes

Wavy hair can lose definition quickly, especially as the day goes on. To revive your waves, spritz them with water or a curl refreshing spray, then scrunch and go! You can also use a small amount of curl cream to refresh your texture without starting from scratch.