Ask a Hairstylist: How to Style Long, Wavy Hair That’s Prone to Frizz

Q: Hi Bill. Saying hi from Michigan! I'm wondering what I could do to make my hair suit me better. This is my hair in its natural state. I basically never do anything to it besides straighten it once in a while. 

It is naturally somewhere between curly and wavy, about medium thickness, and it gets frizzy really easily. 

For seven years, I dyed it bright red—although I never bleached it—but I stopped that last year. Now, it's my natural near-black colour on top, but a faded reddish brown as it goes towards the bottom, like an accidental Ombré.

I feel like the cut I have now isn't as flattering as it could be. I'm also considering a new colour, too, as I prefer warmer reds and browns versus my natural colour. 

Oh, and I still can't get this frizz under control. I appreciate any advice you can give me. Thank you so much! — Cristina

A: Cristina, thank you for your request. First, the frizz—a common challenge for people who have wavy and curly hair. Each head of hair has different needs in controlling this problem with products and styling tools.

Since you have a perfect wave naturally, my suggestion is to use a styling cream (try Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream). 

While your hair is still wet, coat it from roots to ends with the styling cream. Comb it through with your head upside down. Stay in this position and scrunch it dry with a diffuser on your blow dryer, until your hair is very dry.

Do not run your fingers through to separate the curls. This will bring back the frizz. Instead, ruffle the roots only.

In terms of styling, I would first of all suggest a part closer to the middle instead of all the way to one side. This will distribute the weight of your hair more evenly.

It will also frame your face better if you have an equal amount of hair on both sides.

An off-centre part will do the same balancing act, but add long layers and long bangs for a little bit of height.

This would be so pretty on you. My favourite....

As for your colour, instead of an all-over shade, I would go for a hand-painted, balayage-style application to show off the movement of your waves. 

A solid colour often shows off the silhouette of the hair, but with this style, you can see the depth and the subtext of the hair, making it more alluring.

Keep it long for sure. Not everyone has such a beautiful natural wave… it is flaunt-worthy!

billyxoxo