How to Use a Hair Waver or Crimper Step by Step
Start with clean, dry hair and brush it out so there are no tangles. Section your hair into manageable parts so you are not working with too much at once. Place the tool near the roots, clamp down, and hold for a few seconds before releasing. Then move slightly down the same section and repeat, lining up the plates with the previous wave or pattern. Continue until you reach the ends, and work your way through each section.
How to Get Beach Waves vs Defined Texture
The difference comes down to the tool and how you use it.
- Beach waves: Use a waver with wider barrels and take slightly larger sections. This creates softer, more relaxed movement.
- Defined texture (crimped look): Use a crimper and smaller sections to get a more noticeable, structured pattern.
For a more natural finish, you can lightly separate the waves with your fingers once the hair has cooled.
What Plate Size Means for Your Final Look
Plate size affects how tight or loose the pattern looks.
- Wider plates or barrels: Create larger, softer waves and a more relaxed finish
- Narrow plates: Create tighter, more defined texture
- Deeper waves (on wavers): Give a more noticeable, styled look
Choosing the right size depends on whether you want something subtle or more defined.
How to Add Volume Using Crimpers or Wavers
To add volume, focus on the roots rather than the full length of the hair. Take small sections near the crown and lightly crimp or wave just the root area, then leave the top layer of hair smooth to cover it. This creates lift underneath without making the texture too visible.
Working in smaller sections and not overdoing it usually gives a more natural-looking result.
