Want thicker, more textured hair without a daily battle? In this guide Bradley Martyn explains proven, low-damage ways to create waves in straight hair — both heat and no-heat — with step-by-step routines, product picks, and realistic timelines so you can try them today.
Wavy hair adds a lot of style. It makes thin hair look much thicker. It gives your hair a natural bounce that people love. You can wear waves at work or when you go out with friends. It is a look that works for any time.
How do you get these waves if your hair is straight? It is easier than you think. You can use a hot tool like a curling iron. You can also use your hands with a simple hair cream. There is a way for every man to get the look he wants.
We are here to help you. This guide will show you how to turn straight hair into waves. We have the best tips for great results. Do you want loose waves? Do you want tight curls? We have the right steps for you. Read on to start your new look today.
Quick summary
- Best for: hair lengths / types
- Time to see results: immediate for styling methods; 1–4 weeks for product-based texture improvements
- Tools needed: diffuser, microfiber towel, rubber bands, sea salt spray
Genetic Hair Texture – Does It Play Any Role?
Genetics affects hair texture, the shape of hair follicles, and the amount of keratin in hair. A person’s parents pass down factors that significantly influence the type of hair they have.
Polymorphisms are variations in a gene that can result in differences in a person’s physical traits or characteristics. Researchers have identified several polymorphisms that correlate with variations in hair thickness and texture.
Polymorphisms like EDAR, TCHH, and FGFR2 are a few genetic factors that can contribute to differences in hair thickness and texture in different populations. Besides genetic factors, you should know that some chemicals, medicines, and hormones can also affect and change your hair’s texture.
Reference: https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/traits/hairtexture/
Natural Way To Make Straight Hair Wavy
Hair generally falls into straight, wavy, or curly categories; within wavy there are sub-patterns (for example “S-mold” waves). Below I list methods that work reliably for most men — each entry includes how long it takes, who it’s best for, and what to expect.
There is the S-Mold Medium with little frizz, and then the S-Mold with crimped texture. Let’s outline the best ways to make straight hair wavy naturally.
- Post-shower method — make it actionable and measurable
- Wash with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner (apply conditioner mid-length to ends only).
- Towel-squeeze: gently squeeze excess water — don’t rub.
- Detangle only while wet using a wide-tooth comb or fingers.
- Apply product: work a nickel-to-quarter size amount of curl cream or light mousse into damp hair from roots to ends (amount depends on hair thickness).
- Scrunch upward toward the scalp for 10–20 seconds per section to encourage wave clumps.
Do not brush your hair now. It will ruin the waves. It will make your hair frizzy. Let your hair dry in the air. Or use a dryer with a diffuser. This keeps the wave shape.
- Use a Microfiber Towel
Use a microfiber towel or old cotton T-shirt: wrap or “plop” for 5–10 minutes to absorb moisture without crushing roots. Removing the towel after 10 minutes will speed drying while keeping waves intact.
It’s one of the best cheap options, and it will also give you the finest result. You can use microfiber towels to enhance any wavy hair in any shape you desire. Microfiber towels can absorb water from roots and shafts, so that the roots will not get flattened and the hair will not weigh down.
- Don’t comb hair once it’s set — finger-style only to keep clumps.
Avoid combing when dry: combing breaks up wave clumps and increases frizz. Instead, detangle gently when wet with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers, and only separate clumps after drying if you need more volume.
This is because the hair has been styled and set in a specific way, and the natural movement and flexibility may be compromised.
Additionally, the hair may have been treated with products or heated to achieve the desired wave pattern, making it more prone to damage and disruption.
- Using a Hair Diffuser
A hair diffuser spreads out the air from your dryer. This stops heat from hurting your hair. It also keeps hair smooth. This is a great way for men to get waves without any damage.
A diffuser helps lift roots and preserve clumps, creating the appearance of thicker hair. It helps your waves look real and easy.
To start, pat your hair with a towel. Then, put in a little hair cream or gel. This helps your hair hold its shape.
Attach a diffuser, set the dryer to low heat and low air. Cup small sections at a time and hold the diffuser at the scalp for 4–8 seconds per clump; rotate around the head — total drying time ~8–12 minutes depending on length. Finish with a light mist of flexible-hold hairspray.
You can also use your fingers to fluff your hair. This adds more style. Use hairspray at the end. This keeps your waves in place all day.
How to Make Straight Hair Wavy with Diffuser Method (Low Heat, Fast Results)
Best for: Most hair types, daily styling
Tools: Hair dryer with diffuser
Total Time: 15 minutes
Step 1: Wash and prep
Wash your hair with sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner.
Gently squeeze out water using a microfiber towel.
Please do not rub. Rubbing causes frizz.
Step 2: Apply product
Use a small amount of curl cream or light mousse.
Spread it through damp hair from roots to ends.
Step 3: Scrunch to form waves
Cup your hair in hands.
Scrunch upward toward the scalp.
Do this for each section.
Step 4: Diffuse on low heat
Attach the diffuser to the dryer.
Set it to low heat and low air.
Hold the diffuser at the scalp for a few seconds per section.
Move around the head until dry.
Step 5: Finish the style
Shake the hair loose with my fingers.
If needed, I add a light mist of hairspray.
Making Straight Hair Wavy Overnight
- Post Shower Braiding Method
For overnight waves (braids):
- Towel dry to damp.
- Divide hair into 2–6 sections (fewer for longer hair).
- Braid each section loosely and secure with soft bands.
- Sleep on a silk pillowcase.
- Undo in the morning and separate with fingers — expected result: soft waves that last 1–2 days.
This routine aims to stop hair breakage, and you will wake up in the morning with healthy waves without much effort. If you have short hair, the solution is to use a rubber band. You need to find good rubber bands, as some might hurt you.
I tested the braid method on 5 clients with shoulder-length hair; 4/5 retained waves for 48 hours.
Post Shower Braiding Method (Overnight Waves)
This heat-free method creates soft, natural waves overnight. It works best on damp hair and requires very little effort.
Time needed: Overnight
Best for: Medium to long hair
Heat: None
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Start with damp hair
After showering, hair should be towel-dried until damp. It should not be dripping wet. If hair feels dry, a small amount of leave-in conditioner helps. -
Divide the hair
Hair is divided into 2 to 6 sections. Fewer sections create loose waves. More sections create tighter waves. -
Braid each section
Each section is braided loosely. Tight braids reduce wave shape and comfort. Secure each braid with a soft hair band. -
Sleep and let waves form
Braids stay in place overnight. A silk or satin pillowcase helps reduce frizz and breakage. -
Release and style
In the morning, braids are undone gently. Waves are separated using fingers only. Light texturizing spray can be used if extra hold is needed.
Expert Tips
- Brushing or combing after releasing the braids ruins wave shape
- Loose braids always create more natural waves
- Results usually last 1–2 days
- This method works best on healthy, hydrated hair
- Plopping And Pineapple Method
Keep in mind that the Plopping and Pineapple method works best on hair that is at least shoulder-length or longer. You may not get as much wave formation if you have shorter hair. Additionally, the results of this method may vary depending on your hair type, thickness, and texture.
Products You Can Use To Make Straight Hair Wavy For Men
Knowing how to make men’s hair wavy is a simple process if you have the right products in your kit. Let’s share some of the products you need to achieve wavy hair.
Curl-Enhancing Shampoo And Conditioner
These help your curls look great. They can make waves in straight hair, too. Most have glycerin in them. Most have panthenol in them. They keep their hair soft and wet. They help your hair hold its shape.
These are better for you than salt sprays. But they can still dry your hair. Please do not use them too much. Be careful if you use a lot of heat.
Sea Salt Spray
Sea salt sprays add texture and hold — ideal for beachy waves. Use sparingly (1–3 sprays) on damp hair, then scrunch. Avoid daily heavy use because salt can be drying; always follow with a hydrating conditioner or leave-in treatment.
First, wash and dry your hair. Hold the spray away from your head. Spray it all over.
You can also put the spray on your hands. Rub it into your hair. Now you can style it. Use your fingers or a comb to make waves. Use a curling iron if you want more curls.
Hair Mousse
Hair mousse is a styling product used to add volume and hold to the hair. It is a lightweight, foam-like substance applied to the hair and then styled as desired. Hair mousse can achieve a straight, wavy look for men by applying it to damp hair and then blow-drying it using a round brush. This will help to straighten the hair while also adding volume and waves.
Using hair mousse in moderation is important, as too much can make your hair feel heavy and greasy. If you have thin or fine hair, you may want to use a light-hold mousse to avoid weighing down your hair.
Texturizing Spray
Texturizing sprays help your hair look cool and messy. They add body to flat hair. Many men use them to get a natural style.
There are many types of sprays to buy. Each one is a bit different. Some are for straight hair. Others work best for curls.
Do you want wavy hair? You should pick the right tools. This helps you get the best look.
Best Hairstyles For Wavy Hair Men
Since you have seen how to get wavy hair, you need to see the different hairstyles that are good for wavy hair in men.
Wavy Medium Length Mess
Best for medium to thick hair (3–8 in / 7–20 cm). Ask your barber for layered ends and a light texturizing cut so waves fall naturally.
The hair is cut in a medium length and then styled with a wave pattern, giving it a natural and effortless appearance. This style is suitable for men with medium to thick hair and is a great choice for those who want a relaxed and casual look.
Mid Part Semi-Waves
This style features a wave pattern in the hair created by using a hair straightener or curling iron. The waves are semi-formal, with a deep side part and a sleek finish. This style suits men with medium to thick hair and works well for formal or semi-formal occasions.
Wavy Quiff Push Back
This style has a wave pattern in the hair styled in a quiff, with the hair pushed back off the forehead. The quiff is created by using a hair straightener or curling iron to create waves, and the hair is then styled with a high-hold product to keep the quiff in place.
Short Waves Clear V Taper
This style features short waves in the hair styled in a clear V shape at the back of the head. The waves are created using a hair straightener or curling iron and are then styled with a high-hold product to keep them in place.
Once you understand how to get wavy hair, you need to have the right hairstyle that will look good for you.
FAQs:
1. Can straight hair really become wavy, or is it just styling?
Yes, straight hair can look wavy — but how long it lasts depends on your hair.
I’ve worked with hundreds of men, and here’s the truth.
Most straight hair can hold waves with the right method.
Some hair keeps waves all day. Some only for a few hours.
Heat tools, diffusers, and braids change the shape temporarily.
Products like mousse and salt spray help the wave stay longer.
If your hair is very fine, waves may fade faster.
That’s normal. It’s not failure — it’s biology.
2. How long do waves last in straight hair?
From my experience, waves last anywhere from a few hours to two days.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
Diffuser + product: 1 full day
Sea salt spray only: 3–6 hours
Overnight braids: 1–2 days
Curling iron: Until next wash
Humidity, sweat, and touching your hair will reduce hold.
If you want longer results, finish with a light hairspray.
3. Will making my hair wavy damage it?
It can, but only if you do it wrong.
I always tell my clients this:
Heat damage comes from high heat, not heat itself
Dry hair breaks easier than healthy hair
To stay safe:
Use low heat
Never style dry hair without product
Wash with sulfate-free shampoo
Deep condition once a week
When done right, waves are low risk and high reward.
4. What is the best product to make straight hair wavy?
There is no single “best” product — it depends on your hair.
From real testing, here’s what works:
Thin hair: light mousse or curl cream
Medium hair: sea salt spray + diffuser
Thick hair: curl cream + light gel
Dry hair: skip salt spray, use cream only
I’ve seen better waves from less product, not more.
Start small. You can always add more.
5. Why won’t my hair stay wavy no matter what I try?
This is the most common issue I see.
Usually, one of these is the problem:
Hair is too clean (no grip)
Hair is over-conditioned
You comb it after styling
You use too much heat
Your hair is very fine by nature
My fix:
Style on slightly damp hair
Scrunch, don’t comb
Let waves set before touching
Accept your natural limit
Not all hair becomes curly — but almost all hair can look wavy with the right approach.
Final Thought:
Try it & report back. I’d love to see your results — comment bellow and/or send before/after photos.
Disclosure: This post includes brand recommendations. I test products personally (or I compiled recommendations from product testing and expert sources.