There are dozens of ways to create texture, volume, and movement, and wavers are probably the easiest and fastest way to go about it. Lindsey Olson, Sam Villa Ambassador (@lindsey.marie.olson) demonstrates the difference between a single and a double waver as she creates glam waves two ways.
Regardless of the waver used, Olson recommends the following:
- Apply a dry mousse like Redken Root Lifter 10 to build volume, combing it through the hair and blow drying it.
- Use dry sectioning clips to section the hair—they won’t leave a mark.
- Spray each section with Redken Thermal Spray 22 and comb it through. For highly polished results, the hair has to be smooth before compressing it. The denser the hair, the smaller the section.
- Begin compressing, counting to three for each compression for consistency.
- Cool hair thoroughly before breaking it up and styling; this will make the waves last longer.
- Use your fingers to break up the hair for a loose, boho finish, a wide-tooth comb to push waves together, or a Sam Villa Artist Series Polishing Paddle Brush for an ultra-smooth, glam finish.
- Finish with Redken Shine Flash for added gloss.
Olson used Sam Villa Pro Results Double-Waver and Single-Waver irons for the demonstration, along with diagonal back sections to create a soft flow away from the face.
The Results
Double-Waver: Two subtle rounded barrels
Result: Waves are soft and round. These waves are good for boho updos, soft braids, romantic, soft texture, and on natural curls to accentuate and define texture.
Single Waver: One deep, narrow barrel
Result: A poppy wave with more intense ripples—the ultimate accordion glam wave with a luxe feel. This makes more of an impact than the double waver and the perfect glam waves in far less time than a traditional set.
“If you do a lot of brides and updos, wavers will save you so much time. They’re faster than using a regular curling or flat iron, especially for making glam luxe waves,” says Olson. “And, yes, they are different, so don’t choose one over the other. Trust me, you need both!”
See Olson create effortless, lived-in waves with a double waver and Marcel iron in just 10 minutes here.
Sam Villa is co-founder and chief creative officer of the Sam Villa Company (Allvus, LLC), a leading education and styling tool company for the professional hair industry. He is also Global Artistic Ambassador for Redken 5th Avenue, a L’Oreal brand. Villa is the 2021 NAHA Educator of the Year, Hair Awards USA Hall of Fame Inductee, 2021 AHP Icon Stylist Influencer of the Year, 2020 International Hairdressing Awards ‘International Hair Influencer of the Year,’ the 2017 NAHA Lifetime Achievement Award Winner, Intercoiffure America/Canada Member, Behind the Chair Stylist Choice Award Winner for Favorite Platform Artist and Educator (2012, 2011 and 2007) and Favorite Overall Educator of the Year (2015). His inspiring education and innovative ergonomic styling tools can be experienced on samvilla.com. The Sam Villa brand brings free digital education to everyone including hot tips and techniques, as well as access to livestreamed educational events. The company also offers professional tools for consumers so they can achieve salon-quality results at home with minimal effort.