Wavy Hair Isn’t Curly

Why understanding the difference changes everything for your hair

There’s a big misconception in the hair world, that wavy hair and curly hair are basically the same thing. They’re not. And if you’ve ever tried following curly hair routines only to end up with heavy, flat, or greasy waves, this is probably why.

On TikTok recently, I talked about how wavy hair is its own category, not straight, not curly, and it deserves its own care routine. Because when you treat wavy hair like curly hair, you’re working against its natural texture instead of enhancing it.

The Science Behind the Strands

The difference starts at the follicle. Wavy hair grows out of a slightly oval shaped follicle, while curly hair comes from a much more curved one. That shape determines how tightly your hair bends.

Wavy hair tends to form soft S-shaped patterns that sit looser on the head, while curly hair forms ringlets or corkscrews. That might sound minor, but it changes everything, from how your hair absorbs moisture to how much product it needs.

Why Wavy Hair Needs a Different Routine

Most wavy hair types are finer and produce less natural oil than curly hair. This means heavy butters and thick creams (which are amazing for curls) can weigh waves down, leaving them limp or greasy.

Wavy hair also doesn’t need as much moisture layering or “refreshing” as curls do. What it does need is balance, light hydration, flexible hold, and products that enhance definition without killing volume.

That’s why using wavy specific products (like the Merwave kit) makes such a difference. They’re designed to define your natural pattern without the heaviness that curl products bring.

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Common Mistakes Wavies Make

Using curly hair routines - applying too much product, too often, or layering leave-ins and oils that waves just can’t absorb.
Over diffusing or scrunching too hard - this can break your natural S-pattern and cause frizz.
Skipping hold products - without foam or gel, waves lose definition fast and fall flat within hours.
Brushing dry hair - it disrupts the pattern completely and creates unwanted frizz.

Once you understand that wavy hair behaves differently, everything changes. It’s not about forcing ringlets, it’s about enhancing what’s already there.

Your Waves, Your Rules

The beauty of wavy hair is in its versatility. It can look effortlessly undone one day and more defined the next, it’s adaptable, easygoing, and unique. The key is listening to what your hair needs, not what a curly routine says it should do.

So, if your hair never quite looked right after trying the curly girl method, it’s not you, it’s just that your hair is wavy, not curly. Once you start treating it that way, everything clicks. Your waves find their rhythm. The frizz drops. The definition pops. And suddenly, your “in-between” hair starts feeling like your best feature.

Because wavy hair isn’t curly.

It’s its own beautiful, beachy, bounce filled thing.