Gina Curl vs Wave Nouveau: Which One is Better for Your Hair?
If you have natural hair and want to loosen your curl pattern, you may be wondering which curly perm is right for you.
Curly perms come in a variety of styles, including Jheri curl, Care Free curl, Wave by Design Essentials, and Gina curl.
We will compare two of the most popular in this blog post: Gina curl and Wave Nouveau. We’ll look at their similarities, differences, advantages, disadvantages, and how to keep them.
Gina Curl vs Wave Nouveau
Here’s the table comparing Gina Curl and Wave Nouveau
| Aspect | Gina Curl | Wave Nouveau |
|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | Primarily for African-American hair | Primarily for African-American hair |
| Application Process | – Three-step process: | – Three-step process: |
| 1. Apply chemical relaxer | 1. Apply chemical relaxer | |
| 2. Wrap hair around perm rods | 2. Wrap hair around perm rods | |
| 3. Apply neutralizer and style | 3. Apply neutralizer and style | |
| Maintenance | Recommended every 90 days for touch-ups | Recommended every 6 to 8 weeks for touch-ups |
| Trimming | Trimming the ends every 6 to 8 weeks is recommended | Trimming the ends every 6 to 8 weeks is recommended |
| Finishing Lotions | Can use finishing lotions from different brands | Not specified, but likely have their own |
| Hair Dryness | Preserves natural elasticity and moisture | Tends to dry out and weaken the hair over time |
| Heat Styling | Allows for more styling options with heat tools | Limits the use of heat on the hair |
| Curl Pattern | Produces more natural-looking and bouncy curls | Produces a more uniform and defined wave pattern |
| Hair Damage | Less damaging to the hair than other curly perms | More damaging to the hair than other curly perms |
| Availability | Not widely available | Availability may vary |
| Cost | More expensive than other curly perms | Less expensive |
What is Gina Curl?
Gina curl is a curly perm created by Gina Rivera, a Connecticut hairstylist. She devised this method to avoid over-processing the hair and causing it to lose its curl pattern. Gina curling consists of three steps:
- A chemical relaxer is applied to the hair to break down the bonds and soften the texture.
- The hair is wrapped around perm rods without applying any extra chemical.
- A neutralizer is applied to the hair to lock in the new curl pattern, then the hair is rinsed, dried, and styled.
Gina curl is said to be a healthier alternative to other curly perms because it keeps the hair’s natural elasticity and moisture. It also gives you more styling options because you can wear your hair curly or straight without using heat.
What is Wave Nouveau?
Another type of curly perm that became popular in the 1980s and 1990s was Wave Nouveau. It’s similar to Jheri curl, but the curl pattern is drier and more defined. Wave Nouveau is a three-step process as well:
- A chemical relaxer is applied to the hair to break down the bonds and soften the texture.
- The hair is wrapped around perm rods and another chemical solution is applied to set the curls.
- A neutralizer is applied to the hair to lock in the new curl pattern, then the hair is rinsed, dried, and styled.
Wave Nouveau claims to be a long-lasting, low-maintenance curly perm that creates a natural-looking wave pattern in the hair. It also gives the hair body and shine.
How are Gina Curl and Wave Nouveau Similar?
Gina curl and Wave Nouveau are two curly perm treatments that use chemicals to change the natural texture of the hair.
Both necessitate professional application and touch-ups every 6 to 8 weeks.
They both result in a looser, softer curl pattern than the original.
How are Gina Curl and Wave Nouveau Different?
Gina curl and Wave Nouveau differ in several ways:
- Gina curl does not use any additional chemical solution after wrapping the hair around perm rods, whereas Wave Nouveau does.
- Gina curls retain more of the hair’s natural moisture and elasticity, whereas Wave Nouveau tends to dry out and weaken the hair over time.
- Gina curl allows for more styling options with heat tools, such as straightening or curling, whereas Wave Nouveau restricts the use of heat on the hair.
- Wave Nouveau produces a more uniform and defined wave pattern, whereas Gina curl produces a more natural-looking and bouncy curl pattern.
What are the Pros and Cons of Gina Curl and Wave Nouveau?
Gina Curl Pros:
- Less damaging to the hair than other curly perms
- More versatile in styling
- More natural-looking and bouncy curls
Gina Curl Cons:
- More expensive than other curly perms
- Not widely available
- May not work well on very coarse or resistant hair
Wave Nouveau Pros:
- Long-lasting and low-maintenance
- Adds body and shine to the hair
- Creates a uniform and defined wave pattern
Wave Nouveau Cons:
- More damaging to the hair than other curly perms
- Limits the use of heat on the hair
- May look too artificial or dry
How to Maintain Gina Curl and Wave Nouveau?
Both Gina curl and Wave Nouveau require proper care and maintenance to keep them looking good and healthy. Here are some tips on how to take care of your curly perm:
- Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners designed specifically for chemically treated hair.
- Use leave-in conditioners, oils, or creams that are compatible with your curly perm to moisturize your hair on a regular basis.
- Avoid over-washing your hair or using harsh products that can strip your hair of its natural oils.
- Protect your hair from the sun, chlorine, salt water, and other environmental factors that can harm it.
- To avoid split ends and breakage, trim your hair every 6 to 8 weeks.
- Visit your stylist every 6 to 8 weeks or as needed for regular touch-ups.
Conclusion
Gina curl and Wave Nouveau are two popular curly perm styles that can help you achieve a looser, softer curl pattern.
They both have advantages and disadvantages, so before you choose one, think about your hair type, budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
Whatever you decide, make sure to follow the proper hair care and maintenance tips to keep your hair healthy and beautiful.
