Summer is always the time of year when I always crave those effortless wavy hair à la beach babes Kate Hudson or Lauren Conrad. But if you’re like me and your hair is dry and damaged through months of sizzling under hot straighteners and curling irons, this is a great way to give your hair a break from all the heat damage but still look like you woke up fabulous.
MORE: eSalon For Your Customised Treatment
Step 1:
Wash your hair the night before you want to transform into a beach goddess. Allow your hair to dry naturally until it’s only 5-10% damp.Try a nourishing hair oil or serum to treat your hair while it dries, such as Loreal Elvive Extraordinary Oil 100ml ($19.99 from Priceline) or Organix Nourishing Coconut Milk Anti-Breakage Serum 118ml ($17.99 from Priceline).
If you’re in a rush and need to blowdry your hair try Tresemme Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Protective Spray 300ml ($7.99 from Priceline) or Schwarzkopf Extra Care Heidi’s Heat Styles Heat Protection Spray 250ml ($6.99 from Priceline). This helps to prevent any further heat damage to your lovely locks.
Step 2:
Pump a golf ball sized amount of styling mousse into your hand and start working it through your hair. Start from the ends and work upwards but avoid the roots. This will ensure your hair maintains volume and doesn’t feel weighed down. I always go back to Schwarzkopf Extra Care Strong Styling Mousse 150g ($4.99 from Priceline) for a long-lasting yet flexible hold.
Step 3:
Now, simply French-braid your hair tightly and secure with a hair tie. If your hair is thick or you’re looking for extra voluminous waves, part your hair in the middle and tightly braid the two sections.
Step 4:
Finish with a light misting of hairspray – I’ve been loving Loreal’s Elnett Satin Absolute Extreme Hold Hairspray 400ml ($9.99 from Priceline) for a firm hold that looks and feels natural and non-crunchy. Now you’re ready to sleep and let those overnight waves form!
Step 5:
After you’ve slept in the braids overnight, it’s now time for the fun part! Undo your braid/s and gently run your fingers through your locks. Flip your hair upside down for additional volume.
Step 6:
Hit your curls with sea salt spray and gently scrunch your hair to create more structure to your beach waves. I love Toni & Guy’s Casual Sea Salt Texturising Spray 200ml ($15.99 from Priceline) to achieve perfect results.
Step 7:
Finish off the entire hairstyle with a final misting of hairspray and prepare yourself for the inevitable compliments.
Optional:
Now that you have perfect beachy waves, add some volume with Schwarzkopf’s Extra Care Instant Volume Powder 10g ($8.99 from Priceline). You can even try good ol’ dry shampoo – I’m obsessed with the fresh coconut scent of Batiste’s Tropical Dry Shampoo 200ml ($9.99 from Priceline).
Images via abeautifulmess.com, fabfashionfix.com, instyle.com, priceline.com.au