How to Do Soft Finger Waves

Soft finger waves are a hairstyle often associated with a vintage or pin-up girl look. This hairstyle was most popular around 1940, with actress Rita Hayworth making the style very trendy. Shorter hair is best for finger waves, but the style can also work on longer hair if the hair is pulled back. Hair that is thicker and already has some curl or wave is best suited for this hairstyle as it will hold the style better than hair that is fine or thin.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hair gel
• Comb
• Hairspray

1. Wet hair. Hair must be wet but not soaked. Add a styling product to your hair such as gel. Use a fair amount of product, applying liberally throughout hair. Begin your waves in the spot of your choice and use your finger to form a ridge. Generally begin on the left side and work your way around. Slide your finger under a one inch section of hair with your finger parallel to the floor.

2. Use the comb to press against your finger and create one inch sections with the comb, teeth down. Pull the comb sideways along your finger to create a ridge. Do not lift the comb; leave it flat on your scalp.

3. Comb the hair below the ridge in the opposite direction of the first curve. Ridge placement can be determined by the placement of your finger. You should now be able to see the ridge beginning to form with an opposite wave in the shape of a "c".

4. Start the next wave an inch or so from the first wave. Continue this pattern until the waves are across your head. If your hair is short, you will use all of the hair for the waves. If it is long, you will have some hair left over that you can pull back into a loose bun. Allow the waves to air dry naturally and gently comb them out. Use hairspray to hold the style.

References

• Famous People and Hairstyles through the Years
• Simple and Basic Styling Techniques for Finger Waves, Pin Curls and Barrel Curls
• How to Make Finger Waves for Your Wedding Hair