Loose waves, airy bend through the mids, more movement than a classic smooth blowout.
Pixie 20–25 mm · Bob 25–32 mm · Chin 32–38 mm · Shoulder 32–45 mm · Long 38–50 mm
What you need
- Round brush that suits your hair length
- Dryer with nozzle
- Clips for smaller sections
The step-by-step method
- Work with smaller sections than you would for a broad blowout.
- Lift lightly at the root, then rotate more deliberately through the mid-lengths.
- Keep the section no wider than the barrel diameter so the curve forms evenly.
- Use a full, controlled turn through the lower half if you want a more visible bend.
- Release the section gently instead of pulling it straight.
- Let the wave cool before softening it with fingers.
Why this method works
- Smaller sections let the hair follow the curve of the barrel more clearly.
- A moderate barrel produces visible movement without crossing over into tight-curl territory.
- Cooling holds the bend before you break it up into a softer finish.
Common problems and fixes
The section may be too big or you may be brushing it out before it cools.
Use a slightly larger barrel or reduce how far you rotate around the brush.
Add a little more root lift before moving into the wave shape.
If you want this lesson tied to your hair length and goal, use the size finder before you style.
Frequently asked questions
How do soft waves differ from a blowout?
A soft-wave method uses more deliberate bend through the mids and ends, while a blowout leans more on root lift and polish.
Can I use a large barrel for soft waves?
Yes, but the result will be broader and looser; if the hair does not take shape well, move slightly smaller.
Why does one side always look better?
Direction and section size are often inconsistent from side to side. Mirror your hand position and keep the sections even.