Creating a Wavy Type 2b Curly Hair Routine

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Navigating the vast realm of hair care can be a challenge, but if you’re on the hunt for the ultimate Wavy Type 2b Curly Hair Routine, you’ve landed in the right place. Dive in as we unpack the best tips, products, and techniques tailored specifically for those with gorgeous 2b waves.

When I first embarked on my curly hair journey, I was a little lost in the sea of curl types and routines. But over the past three years, I’ve truly appreciated the unique beauty of my type 2b waves.

I used to get very frustrated with the fact that my hair wasn’t straight, but it also wasn’t considered curly. So, what’s a girl to do? Well, I used to either straighten it or get a perm. (Yikes on the perm!)

I’m so glad those days are behind me and that I’ve found a routine that works for me. A routine, in fact, that gives me ringlet curls sometimes, thank you very much.

If I only knew over the last two decades of hair frustration what I know now.

If you’re part of the 2b club like I am, you know the struggle to find the perfect routine that gives those waves the love they deserve. I aim to help you embrace and love your curls as much as I do.

What is Type 2b Wavy Hair?

Type 2b wavy hair for curly girls is a specific hair type characterized by S-shaped waves that lie closer to the head, without voluminous curls.

This hair type can benefit from hydration, as it’s prone to frizz. For those embracing the Curly Girl Method, it’s vital to select sulfate-free shampoos and lightweight conditioners and avoid heavy products that can weigh down the waves.

Proper care can accentuate these natural waves and reduce frizz, giving a defined and bouncy look.

Embracing Your Type 2b Waves: Crafting the Perfect Routine

If you’ve clicked on this post, chances are you’re blessed with type 2b waves. They’re the waves that make people go, “Is your hair naturally like that? It’s so pretty!”

So many products on the market promise beachy style waves like we’ve been given naturally. (But yet, most of us have fought against them all our lives!) And while we love the compliments, we know it’s not always sunshine and rainbows when maintaining those waves.

Let’s dive deep into understanding and celebrating our 2b waves.

Decoding Type 2b Wavy Curly Hair: A Quick Overview

Defining the characteristics of 2b hair type.

Now, if you’re like me, you’ve probably spent some time in front of the mirror, analyzing your hair and wondering where on the curly spectrum you fall.

Well, 2b waves are best described as S-shaped waves that lay flatter at the crown with more defined S-waves from the mid-length to the ends. Unlike straight hair, these waves have a little more bounce, and unlike tighter curls, they don’t spiral.

How 2b hair differs from other curl types.

Stepping into the curly world, you’ll find a fascinating range of types, from straight-ish 2a to the coily 4c. Our 2b waves are kind of the middle children of the curly family. They’re wavier than 2a but not as curly as 3a.

The distinction matters because each type has its own set of needs. And while there’s some overlap in care routines, what works wonders for a 3b might not be the best for us 2b ladies.

The unique needs and challenges of 2b waves.

2b hair can be a bit unpredictable. Some days, it’s frizz central (especially on those humid days, ugh!).

On other days, it can fall a bit flat. The key is understanding that our hair craves balance. It needs hydration without being weighed down. It longs for definition without the crunchiness.

We walk that fine line of ensuring our waves are nurtured without being overwhelmed.

3 Core Steps to Building a 2b Wavy Hair Routine

Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of crafting that perfect routine!

Over time, I’ve realized that our fabulous 2b waves thrive when we consistently follow some core steps. It’s like giving our hair the TLC it’s been asking for. So, here are the three foundational steps I swear by:

The importance of a moisture-rich shampoo and conditioner.

Let’s kick things off with the basics. I can’t stress enough how vital it is to choose a shampoo and conditioner that quench our hair’s thirst.

Remember when I said our waves need hydration? Well, this is where it starts.

Opt for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners packed with nourishing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or aloe vera.

These magical products ensure our hair remains clean without stripping away natural oils, leaving our waves feeling soft, bouncy, and oh-so-touchable.

Read: How to Choose the Best Products for Curly Hair

Incorporating weekly deep conditioning treatments.

If you’re skipping deep conditioning, you’re missing out on major wave love.

Our type 2b hair tends to lean towards the drier side, making it more prone to frizz. By indulging in a weekly deep conditioning session, we’re giving our hair that extra boost of moisture it craves.

The result? Waves that are soft, defined, and resilient against breakage.

Establishing a styling routine that enhances natural waves.

Now for the fun part: styling!

Finding the right routine took me some trial and error, but once I found my groove, my waves have never looked better.

For us 2b gals, lightweight creams and/or mousses are the way to go. Heavy gels? Not so much. But a lightweight gel applied properly? Perfect.

Remember to apply products when your hair is soaking wet to lock in that moisture.

Techniques like ‘scrunching‘ or ‘plopping’ can further enhance those beautiful S-shaped waves we’re so proud of. And hey, don’t be afraid to experiment until you find what makes your waves pop!

Styling Techniques Specifically for 2b Waves

It’s time to talk about the secret sauce: the styling techniques that make our 2b waves truly shine!

Over the years, I’ve come across some absolute game-changers. These aren’t just generic curly hair tips; these are tailored for us, the proud 2b wave crew.

Let’s dive right in!

Using the right tools like wide-tooth combs and diffusers.

Have you ever tried detangling with a regular brush and ended up with a frizzy mess? I’ve been there, and it’s a no-go for our hair type.

Wide-tooth combs and brushes specifically designed for curly hair are our best friends when it comes to detangling without breaking up our natural wave pattern.

And when it comes to drying? Enter: the diffuser.

It disperses air evenly, allowing our waves to dry in their natural shape without a ton of frizz. If you don’t have one yet, it’s a worthwhile investment.

Benefits of the “squish to condish” method.

Okay, if you haven’t heard of “squish to condish,” prepare for a revelation. This technique is all about ensuring maximum hydration.

After applying your conditioner, you ‘squish’ your hair upwards, allowing it to absorb as much water and conditioner as possible. It sounds simple, but the definition and moisture retention difference is mind-blowing!

It’s like giving your waves a hydration-packed hug.

How to air-dry or diffuse for frizz-free waves.

The big question: to air-dry or to diffuse? Both methods have their perks.

Air-drying is the gentlest, letting nature do its thing. But if you’re in a hurry, diffusing is your best bet.

The trick is to keep the diffuser on a low heat setting and patiently move it around without disturbing the waves too much. If you do choose the air-dry route, avoid touching your hair until it’s completely dry to minimize frizz.

My Wavy Type 2b Hair Routine

The best way I learned how to care for and style my hair was to read articles and watch videos from gals who have the same hair type.

At first, I would copy their routine exactly, and then over time, I would adapt it to what worked better for me. How did I find what worked best for me? Experimenting. Lots of experimenting.

Here’s a video I put together of my wavy hair routine. I hope it helps you create the perfect routine for yourself!

Products Mentioned in This Video

Here’s a list of the products mentioned and shown in this video:

• LUS Shampoo and Conditioner (I actually didn’t even talk about these, but this is what I currently use)
• Microfiber Towel
• Spray bottle
• OUAI Leave in Conditioner
• Curl Keeper Brush
• LUS All-in-One Styler for Wavy Hair
• Curl Keeper Hair Clamps
• Flora & Curls Volumizing Foam
• LUS Sea Moss Gel
• Bellissima Diffuser

Wrapping This Up

And there we have it!

Navigating the world of 2b hair can be a whirlwind of experiments, revelations, and oh-so-many product trials.

But at the heart of it all? Embracing and celebrating our unique wavy texture. I truly believe that with the right knowledge, tools, and a sprinkle of patience, we can all rock our waves with pride and confidence.