Here's the thing: There are so many types of hair extensions in the world that it's a borderline headache to figure out which ones are truly The Best. But as anyone who's scrolled through IG for extension inspo has definitely already noticed, body wave hair remains one of the most sought-after styles. It makes sense, too—body waves are cute, versatile, and basically a year-round staple. And if you've been considering trying them for the first time, you've come to the right place. Ahead, Latoya Boothe, owner of Honey Salon Harlem in New York City, weighs in on everything you need to know about the style, including the installation, maintenance, and so much more.
What is body wave hair?
You probably guessed it from the name, but Boothe says body wave hair is defined by its soft, loose curl pattern. The beauty of body wave extensions, says Boothe, is how easy and versatile they are. And while body waves are especially great for anyone wanting an easy, everyday look with minimal styling time—that doesn't mean you don't have the option to style it whenever you want to. If your body wave hair is made of human hair (i.e., 100 percent REMY human hair, not synthetic), Boothe says you can easily blow it out for a sleeker, straighter look or run a curling wand through it for a tighter, more defined style.
"Even if your hair isn't 'done,' you'll still have some nice shape and wave in your hair—and whether you wash it, curl it, or do anything to it, body wave hair still keeps its form," says Boothe. Body wave hair—like all hair extensions—come in a variety of forms, including clip-ins and sew-ins, and can be made with synthetic hair (which is more affordable, but can't be heat-styled) or human hair (which is pricier, but more natural looking and resistant to damage).
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How do you install body wave hair?
Welp, that's totally up to you and your preferences. Boothe says clip-ins are great for anyone in need of a temporary style (think: weddings, birthdays, special events), and since they're re-usable, you can hang on to them and wear 'em whenever you like. But clients in need of something more permanent should consider getting sew-in body wave extensions, says Boothe, which can last up to eight weeks.
With sew-ins, your stylist first braids your natural hair into cornrows and then attaches the extensions onto your braids with a needle and thread—the process definitely takes longer than clip-in extensions (think: three to six hours) but the result is usually super natural-looking. Another plus with sew-ins? They're a protective style, which means they're great for giving your natural hair a break from heat styling, excessive brushing, and product buildup. At the end of the day though, only you know what body wave extensions are going to be best (and, okay, maaaybe your hairstylist—who's always a good person to consult before you decide anything).
How do you wash body wave hair?
If you're working with clip-in extensions, there's no need to wash your body wave hair regularly (since the hair isn't attached directly to your scalp, there's way less room for oil and buildup). When you feel like your extensions do need a wash, use a tiny dollop of sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, rinse well, and gently pat dry.
Sew-in body wave hair should be washed every two weeks or so, says Boothe. If you have the time, it's not a bad idea to head back to your salon for a professional wash, but if you'd rather do it at home, you'll need a super-gentle sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. BTW: Boothe says the most important thing is to make sure your body wave hair completely dries. She suggests using a blow dryer on your scalp, since leaving any damp spots can actually lead to irritation and mildew (yes, really—you could start growing mold).
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Adwoa Beauty Baomint Moisturizing Shampoo
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The final word
If you're looking for a cute hair-extension style with loads of versatility, you can't really go wrong with body wave hair. Start by figuring out what type of extensions you want (remember: clip-in or sew-in) and then book an appointment with a pro who can walk you through your best options for installation, maintenance, and more. And, hey, who knows—maybe you'll roll into 2021 with a brand-new look.
Ruby Buddemeyer
Ruby was the beauty editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covered beauty across print and digital. Her work has appeared on The Zoe Report, Fashionista, and StyleCaster. Follow her on Instagram.
FAQs
Body wave perms are a popular choice for people who want to add volume and a natural wave to their hair. The body wave perm creates a relaxed look with larger, looser waves using large rollers. This is a great option for people with straight hair that doesn't typically curl.
What are the benefits of body wave hair? ›
Body wave hair is collected well in one direction from top to end, it can keep the hair no tangle and smooth. Body Wave Bundles are not dyed, it maintains the natural state, suitable to handle any hairstyle, such as: straight, curly, deep curly and other restyle patterns that people like.
What is the meaning of body wave hair? ›
plural body waves. 1. : hair or a hairstyle marked by loose curls of S-shaped waves. also : a hairstyling process for creating body waves. Permanents, which include body waves, add curl or body to naturally straight or very limp hair.
What's the difference between a perm and a body wave? ›
A body wave perm gives the impression of just braided, scrunched hair, all the time (or for as long as it lasts). A perm gives you permanently curly hair, and depending on the rods you and your stylist decide to use, will depend on the size of the curl in your hair.
How long does body wave hair last? ›
The best body wave lasts about six months. But if you take good care of it, the life span of a Brazilian body wave can be extended to about a year. I will list the factors that affect the longevity of body waves and what to do about them.
How much does it cost to get a body wave? ›
How much are different perm styles?
| Perm style | Cost |
|---|
| Spot or partial | $30-$100 |
| Volumizing | $40-$150 |
| Body wave | $40-$200 |
| Beach wave | $40-$200 |
5 more rowsMar 21, 2022
“Body wave hair usually has loose curls that create an S-like shape,” Simmons tells us. “This S pattern is present throughout the length of the hair extension. Body wave hair is usually shiny and natural-looking in appearance. It also blends with most hair patterns due to its relaxed texture.”
Does body wave hair stay curly? ›
If body. wave isn't curled the curls will fall back to its natural. wave.
What is the difference between body wave and wavy hair? ›
The biggest difference between body wave and loose wave hair is the curl pattern. Loose wave hair is much curlier than body wave hair. The curls in loose wave hair last longer than the ones on body wave hair.
What do you put on body wave hair? ›
By rule of thumb, we do not recommend any heavy products or any products that will strip the hair of its natural moisture. If you are unsure of what exactly to look for, stay away from products that may include ingredients such as parabens, silicones, sulfates, or alcohol.
If your hair is in good condition, and you've decided to bite the body-wave bullet, be prepared to dedicate up to four hours for your treatment depending on the length of your hair. While you're in the salon chair, you and your stylist will choose the appropriate perm rod size based on the results you're seeking.
Why are they called body waves? ›
The first two wave types, P and S , are called body waves because they travel or propagate through the body of Earth. The latter two are called surface waves they the travel along Earth's surface and their amplitude decreases with depth into Earth.
Do body wave perms damage your hair? ›
Perm chemicals change the protein bonds within your hair. After a perm, a lot of your natural moisture is lost, and you might be prone to split ends and breakage, especially on the ends of your hair. Perming your hair the first time usually isn't the problem, it's perming multiple times over already damaged hair.
Is a body wave good for thin hair? ›
Body wave perms are best for straight or thin hair whose length is medium to long, acting as a great alternative to the root perm. The process: The process involves wrapping your hair in large rollers with the perm solution applied.
Is there a perm that looks like beach waves? ›
Beach wave perms, also known as beachy perms, are a type of perm solution that creates loose, natural-looking waves.
Will a body wave damage my hair? ›
Though the name suggests these waves will last forever, they're temporary. Perms can cause damage to your hair over time. If you don't take care of your scalp health, you could experience hair loss. Scalp health is important because once a hair follicle gets damaged, you can't grow new hair from that follicle.
Which is better, body wave or straight hair? ›
The textured waves lend themselves more to a relaxed and effortless look, which may not align with a perfectly straight and refined style. Straight hair wigs typically provide a sleeker and more controlled appearance, making them a better option for individuals seeking a highly polished and sophisticated look.
What are the benefits of waving your hair? ›
Whether simply let down, pinned as a half-updo, gathered into a high or low ponytail, or even as a voluminous bun – wavy hair has the right volume and texture to shine and look great in any form. Along with these benefits are easy-maintenance and lesser products too.
Which is better, loose wave or body wave? ›
To sum it up, if you prefer thicker hair, a loose wave is best, but if a soft and bouncy curl with a little less volume is what you want, then body wave hair is for you.
