How to Make Finger Waves

Finger waves were popular during the 1920s and 1930s.

Women who are tired of tight, spiral curls should look no further than finger waves. The name refers to a loose style of hair curls that was popular during the 1920s and 1930s. Be it for a costume party or if you are craving change, this hairstyle need not require a trip to the salon. Women who wish to channel old Hollywood glamor can create finger waves at home with the help of several basic hair-styling tools and products.

Things You'll Need

• Hair gel
• Comb

Instructions

1. Wash your hair as you normally would. Wait 10 to 15 minutes, until the hair is wet but no longer dripping. Part your hair to the side.

2. Apply a generous coat of gel and comb it throughout your hair.

3. Place your middle finger across your hair, next to the part. Your fingertip should be touching the top of your forehead.

4. Press the comb against the side of your finger. Drag the comb's teeth through a 1-inch section of hair sideways along your finger. You should see a wave beginning to form.

5. Place the comb flat against your scalp without lifting the comb from the hair.

6. Place your index finger next to your middle finger. Close the two fingers together and apply pressure to the head in order to form a ridge.

7. Drag the comb through your hair again but in the opposite direction than before. At this point the ridge should be visible and a wave should be running through your hair.

8. Create another wave, ideally 1 or 1 1/2 inches away from the first wave. Continue to do so until the waves are running across your head.

9. Gently comb through the waves once they have dried. Mist your hair with a holding spray to set the style.

Tips & Warnings

• Women with long hair are likely to have some hair left over after creating a finger wave style. Either pin up the leftover hair or add curl to it with the help of a curling iron or rollers.

References

• Four Steps to Create Finger Waves