Guide to wavy hair terms

Welcome to the realm of wavy hair!

Don't fret if you come across unfamiliar terminology, we're here to help you decode it. 

Below, we've provided explanations for some common terms to ease your journey...

Plopping

Plopping is a drying technique used to enhance wave definition and reduce frizz.

It involves wrapping wet hair in a microfibre towel to remove excess water.

Clumping

Clumping refers to the formation of naturally grouped curls or waves, which occurs when hair strands stick together rather than separating into individual strands.

Clumping is desirable for achieving defined, uniform waves and minimising frizz.

Cast

The cast refers to the gel or styling product that forms a firm hold around the waves as they dry.

Once the hair is completely dry, the cast can be gently scrunched or broken to reveal soft, defined curls underneath.

Pineappling

"Pineappling" is a popular technique among people with wavy hair to preserve their curls or waves overnight and minimise frizz.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Flip your head forward and gather all of your hair towards the top of your head.

You can use your hands or a wide-tooth comb to gently gather your hair without disturbing your waves too much.


2. Secure with a hair tie: Once you have gathered your hair, loosely secure it with a scrunchie or a soft hair tie.

Avoid pulling your hair too tight, as this can cause creases and disrupt your waves.


3. Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase: To further prevent frizz and maintain your waves, consider sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase.

These materials are gentler on your hair compared to cotton, which can cause friction and lead to frizz.

  • How to get soft air dried waves

    How to get soft air dried waves

    Anna-Jo Charles

    Frizz gone. Crunch gone. Confidence up. Over 150,000 women use Merwave to awaken their waves. Today it is your turn.

    How to get soft air dried waves

    by Abi Reid

    Frizz gone. Crunch gone. Confidence up. Over 150,000 women use Merwave to awaken their waves. Today it is your turn.

  • Causes of Frizz in Wavy Hair (and How to Tame It)

    Causes of Frizz in Wavy Hair (and How to Tame It)

    Anna-Jo Charles

    Frizz. The ultimate mood killer. You spend time styling your waves, only for them to puff, fuzz, and lose all shape the moment you step outside. But here’s the truth,...

    Causes of Frizz in Wavy Hair (and How to Tame It)

    by Abi Reid

    Frizz. The ultimate mood killer. You spend time styling your waves, only for them to puff, fuzz, and lose all shape the moment you step outside. But here’s the truth,...

  • How I Finally Embraced My Waves

    How I Finally Embraced My Waves

    Anna-Jo Charles

    For years, I thought my hair was just… awkward. Not straight. Not curly. Just frizzy, messy, and impossible to manage. I’d straighten it, tie it back, or smother it in heavy...

    How I Finally Embraced My Waves

    by Abi Reid

    For years, I thought my hair was just… awkward. Not straight. Not curly. Just frizzy, messy, and impossible to manage. I’d straighten it, tie it back, or smother it in heavy...

1 of 3