Why is My Hair Wavy When Wet? (Scientific Reason)
Have you ever pondered over the question: why is my hair wavy when wet?
You are not alone in this boat. Many people, especially those with frizzy or unmanageable hair, have experienced the phenomena of their hair turning wavy or even curly when wet.
However, understanding why this occurs and how to handle it can be tricky. In this post, we will unravel the mystery behind your wavy wet hair, and share tips on how to manage it effectively.
Quick Answer: When you wet your hair, hydrogen bonds form between the protein strands. These bonds cause proteins to fold back on themselves, resulting in a curlier texture. Water also causes hair to become weighed down.
Why is My Hair Wavy When Wet?
Firstly, your hair’s tendency to wave or curl when wet is typically a result of its natural texture and structure.
Hair is made up of proteins called keratins, and the distribution of these proteins within each strand of hair determines its natural curl pattern.
When your hair is wet, the water molecules interfere with the hydrogen bonds in your hair, temporarily allowing it to assume a different shape.
Thus, if your hair tends to be wavy or curly, it will show this pattern more when it’s wet.
How Do I Stop My Hair From Waving?
Are you tired of your hair waving and looking puffy? Fear not.
There are a few methods that can help.
Firstly, try not to brush your hair while it’s wet. Brushing can disrupt the hair’s natural curl pattern and cause it to become frizzy. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle.
Furthermore, products designed to smooth and straighten hair can help. Consider investing in a good quality serum or leave-in conditioner that’s designed for frizzy or wavy hair.
HCA Recommended Best Strengthening Leave-In Conditioner
Heat Can’t Make It Straight
Despite popular belief, heat does not always make wavy hair straight.
In fact, excessive heat can damage your hair, leaving it more susceptible to frizz and breakage.
Instead of relying on heat, opt for heat-free methods such as using straightening products, or wrapping your hair tightly in a towel or turban after washing.
How Do You Know If Your Hair Is Naturally Wavy?
As previously mentioned, the natural state of your hair may become apparent when it’s wet.
But how do you definitively know if your hair is naturally wavy? One way is to wash and condition your hair, then allow it to air dry without touching it. If your hair dries with a wave or curl, it’s likely naturally wavy or curly.
My Hair Is Curly When Wet, How Do I Keep It That Way?
If you love the way your hair looks when it’s wet and curly, you might be wondering how to maintain that look once it dries.
To do this, use products designed for curly or wavy hair. Apply these while your hair is still wet to lock in the moisture and define the curls.
Air drying or diffusing your hair can also help to maintain its natural curl pattern.
Why Is My Hair Straight When Wet but Wavy When Dry?
Contrary to the previous sections, some people find their hair to be straight when wet but wavy once it dries.
This can be due to the weight of the water pulling the hair straight.
Once the hair dries and lightens, its natural curl pattern can reassert itself, leading to wavy or curly hair.
Why Does My Wavy Hair Go Straight When I Brush It?
Brushing can disrupt your hair’s natural wave pattern, leading it to appear straighter.
However, brushing can also cause damage and frizz, particularly if you’re brushing your hair when it’s dry. To maintain your waves while reducing frizz, try using a wide-tooth comb or a brush specifically designed for wavy or curly hair.
Conclusion
The mystery of why your hair turns wavy when wet is not so mysterious after all. It all boils down to the natural structure and texture of your hair, along with how you manage it.
By understanding your hair and using the right products and techniques, you can either enhance your natural waves or keep your hair straighter if that’s your preference.
Remember, every person’s hair is unique. Experimenting with different methods and products will eventually lead you to what works best for your hair type.
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get it right the first time; practice and patience will get you there.
FAQs
How do you straighten wavy hair after a shower?
After showering, try applying a straightening product to your damp hair. Then, use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair. Let your hair air dry or use a blow dryer with a concentrator nozzle to help straighten it.
How do I stop my hair from curling after a shower?
To stop your hair from curling after a shower, apply a smoothing serum or leave-in conditioner to damp hair. Comb through to distribute the product evenly and then let your hair air dry. Avoid touching your hair as it dries, as this can disrupt the hair cuticle and lead to frizz and curling.
How do you stop frizzy hair after a shower?
After your shower, avoid roughly towel-drying your hair as this can cause frizz. Instead, gently blot your hair with a microfiber towel or t-shirt. Apply a smoothing product or anti-frizz serum while your hair is still damp. Let your hair air dry or use a diffuser attachment if you’re using a blow dryer.
