Once it hits Memorial Day, I relegate my blow dryer and hot tools to the back of my closet: it's air-dry season! I have naturally wavy hair [1], so with the right products, I can really enhance my texture. Plus, it makes running from an early morning workout to the office [2] much quicker and easier.
This year, I finally found the perfect four-product cocktail that seems to give me nonfrizzy beach waves every time. I'm sharing it with you, here, so you can try it at home! If you have tighter curls [3] or straighter locks, you may want to play around with the selection, since this is meant for medium-wavy hair.
Step 1: Wave-Making Cream
I add a few pumps of this light hair cream to my wet, postshower strands. Unlike gels, it doesn't leave a crunchy feeling but does offer some hold and shaping capabilities. The formula is meant to make hair dry with salt-spray waves and texture. After using it for a few months, I have found it definitely enhances my natural twists.
Oribe Matte Waves Texture Lotion [4] ($42)
Step 2: Wave-Making Spray
Next, I spritz my locks with a wave-enhancing spray. I can't find one I like better than Jen Atkin's version. It gives my hair that perfectly ropy but not frizzy texture I usually only see after actually going into the ocean. Some wave sprays feel too sticky and salty. This one leaves my hair smooth but loosely curled.
Ouai Wave Spray [5] ($26)
Step 3: Hair Spray
Once the curl cream and spray have begun to work their magic, I lock it all in with a hair spray. This L'Oréal cult favorite instantly gets rid of frizz and adds shine. I also love that I can layer a healthy mist, and it doesn't feel waxy. Go for the unscented version to avoid that salon smell.
L'Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray, Extra Strong Hold, Unscented [6] ($13)
Step 4: Hair Oil
If my hair still looks a little fuzzy after it dries or the next day, I smooth it out with hair oil. This iconic Kérastase one may look shiny right when you apply it, but after a few minutes, it completely dissolves into hair, leaving no residue. And I actually think it makes my strands healthier over time. It's especially great for women with long hair since our ends can get drier.
Kérastase Elixir Ultime [7] ($37)