Wearing your natural texture isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. But, between air-dry days, clients everywhere are looking for ways to ensure a flawless finish, and this season the perfect balance exists between hair being done, without looking too done up. “Hair that’s too consistent doesn’t look cool. I like raw, natural hair with individual character,” explains Roger Molina, Sam Villa ArTeam and Master Stylist at Lunatic Fringe @rogermolinahair.
When it comes to creating those effortlessly finished styles this season Molina has a perfect technique to pass the vibe check. “This waving technique relies on a comb and flat iron to allow you to alter hair naturally with subtle differences in the wave pattern that are strategic, yet predictable and organic,” Molina, adds.
The Technique: Making Waves with a Flat Iron + Comb
Fairly straightforward, this tip is great for stylists in the salon and easy to teach your guests to recreate at home. “This technique allows you to use a comb to guide hair and navigate waves in a way which makes it easier to teach and show co-workers…and even clients,” explains Molina.
Watch the technique below and then follow the steps!
Expert Tips:
When waving the hair, the direction can make a big difference in the finished look.
- Horizontal Sections achieve wide and flat curl patterns for volume.
- Diagonal Back Sections create dynamic movement in curls for added texture and style, and directs hair away from the face.
Step 1: Straightening:
Prep your style by smoothing the hair using 1.5” sections and a Sam Villa Signature Series Tail Comb for maximum tension trailed by a Sam Villa Signature Series Sleekr Professional Straightening Iron on high heat. If your guest colors their hair, switch to the Color-Treated setting to protect the hair from fading. Slowly press each section until you’ve achieved a silky smooth result from root to ends.
Step 2: Waving:
Place Sleekr at your base with your palm down. While moving the iron, close and turn up. Place tail comb parallel to iron and apply tension while pulling in one fluid “motorcycle throttle” motion. Using a comb to push the hair to the side, much in the same way of creating a finger wave style. Repeat the motion. The hand turns up, then back down, and you’ll continue pushing the sections with a tail comb in the desired flow direction.
Shop The Tools:
Sam Villa Signature Series Tail Comb
Sam Villa Signature Series Sleekr Professional Straightening Iron
“To truly master this technique, I highly recommend doing it over and over on a mannequin. It will enable you to fully explore it with confidence. I loved discovering how to create these bespoke little pieces that move in different ways!” he adds.
