Short Haircuts for Wavy is versatile and can look stunning in a variety of short haircuts. Whether you have naturally wavy hair or create waves with styling tools, there are many trendy and low-maintenance options to choose from in 2024.
Here are some of the best short haircuts for wavy hair
Wavy Bob
A classic choice for short wavy hair is the bob. A chin-length or slightly longer bob with textured waves is effortless and chic. For a modern twist, try an asymmetrical or angled bob that is shorter in the back. A wavy bob with bangs can also be a flattering option to frame the face.
Wavy Pixie Cut
For a bolder look, a pixie cut can showcase wavy texture in a fun and edgy way. A longer pixie with piece-y waves and side-swept bangs is a popular choice. A pixie can also be customized with an undercut or asymmetrical detail for added interest.
Wavy Lob
If you prefer a slightly longer length, a wavy lob (long bob) is a great option. A shoulder-grazing lob with beachy waves is universally flattering and easy to style. Face-framing layers and a center part can add movement and shape to a wavy lob.
Layered Short Wavy Hair
Layers are key for adding texture and removing weight from thick wavy hair. A short layered cut with face-framing pieces and long bangs can create a soft, feminine loo. A layered wavy shag with a side part is another trendy option that embraces natural texture.
Short Haircuts for Thick Wavy Hair
Thick wavy hair can be prone to looking heavy or triangular in short cuts. To avoid this, opt for cuts with lots of layers and texture. A short choppy bob with piece-y waves is a great choice. An angled or stacked bob can also remove bulk and add shape to thick waves.
When styling short wavy hair, use products like mousse, salt spray, or texture spray to enhance the waves and add definition. Diffusing or air drying can help maintain the natural wave pattern. Experiment with different parts and accessorize with headbands or hair clips for added style.
Popular short haircuts for wavy hair
Here are some of the most popular and flattering short haircuts for wavy hair:
Wavy Bob: A bob haircut that hits around the chin or jawline is a classic choice for wavy hair. The length allows the natural waves to create beautiful movement and shape. Opt for an angled or asymmetrical bob for extra style.
Wavy Lob: The lob (long bob) is another trendy option for wavy hair. With lengths grazing the shoulders or collarbone, a lob with loose waves looks effortlessly chic. Add long layers or curtain bangs to enhance the wavy texture.
Pixie Cut: For a bold short style, a pixie cut can beautifully showcase a wavy texture. Go for a longer, piece-y pixie on top with shorter, cropped sides. This allows the waves on top to create height and movement.
Shaggy Layers: Shaggy layers are key for enhancing natural waves in short haircuts. A shag cut with choppy layers and face-framing pieces creates an edgy, textured look that flatters wavy hair.
Curly Crop: Those with tighter curl patterns can opt for a super short curly crop or tight coils. This allows the natural curl definition to be the star of the show in a low-maintenance style.
Wavy Undercut: For a fashion-forward look, pair a longer wavy top with shaved or undercut sides and back. This creates an interesting contrast of textures and lengths.
How to maintain wavy hair
Here are some tips for maintaining short wavy hair
Cleansing and Conditioning
- Use a sulfate-free, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner formulated for wavy/curly hair to avoid drying out your waves.
- Shampoo only 1-2 times per week.
- Condition thoroughly every time you shampoo. Focus the conditioner on the ends to avoid weighing down the roots.
- Do a weekly deep conditioning treatment to add extra moisture and definition to your waves.
Styling Products
- Use lightweight styling products like mousses, gels, or creams to enhance and define your waves without weighing them down.
- Apply styling products to soaking wet hair and scrunch in the product with your hands to encourage curl formation.
- Avoid heavy oils, butters, or creams which can make short wavy hair look greasy or limp.
Drying Techniques
- Allow your hair to air dry as much as possible to preserve your natural wave pattern.
- You can enhance waves by scrunching with your hands while air drying.
- If diffusing, use low heat and low speed to gently dry and enhance waves without frizz.
- Try the “plopping” technique by micro-plopping or plopping into an old cotton t-shirt to set your wave pattern as it dries.
Haircuts and Maintenance
- Get regular trims every 6-8 weeks to prevent split ends and maintain shape.
- Avoid excessive brushing or detangling when dry, which can create frizz. Detangle gently with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb when hair is wet and conditioned.
- Sleep on a silk/satin pillowcase and use a buff or hair wrap at night to protect your waves from frizz and disruption.
Common mistakes to avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when styling short wavy hair:
- Not Wetting Hair Enough: Not thoroughly wetting your hair before applying styling products can lead to uneven distribution and poor definition of your waves. Saturate your hair with water or use a continuous mist bottle while styling.
- Not Sectioning Hair: Failing to section and work through your hair in segments can cause some areas to be under or over-styled. Take the time to separate your hair into manageable sections to ensure even product application.
- Using the Wrong Tools: Using brushes, combs, or towels that are too rough can disrupt the wave pattern and cause frizz. Stick to wide-tooth combs, wet brushes, microfiber towels, and your fingers when detangling and styling wavy hair.
- Brushing When Dry: Never brush or detangle wavy hair when it is completely dry, as this will lead to frizz and breakage. Always detangle gently with conditioner or a leave-in product when hair is wet.
- Touching Hair Too Much: Constantly touching or playing with your waves after styling can separate the clumped curl pattern and create frizz. Try to avoid fiddling with your hair once it is styled.
- Using Too Much or Too Little Product: Finding the right amount of product for your hair length and density takes trial and error Using too little won’t provide enough hold, while too much can weigh down waves.
- Applying Products Too Late: Styling products like mousses, gels, and creams should be applied to soaking wet hair before it dries. Applying too late can disrupt the wave formation.
- Improper Drying Techniques: Avoid rough towel drying or blasting waves with hot air, which can create frizz. Allow hair to air dry as much as possible, or use a diffuser in a low, cool setting.