Secrets Of The Best 2a 2b 2c Wavy Hair Routine 2024 - Curly Bun Mom (2024)

Unlocking the perfect routine for your wavy hair—whether it’s 2a, 2b, or 2c—can be a quest.

The search for the ideal wavy hair care routine and products tailored to your unique texture can feel overwhelming amidst the sea of curly girl product options available today.

But, don’t worry! As a mom of a daughter with gorgeous 2b 2c hair, I’ve tried and tested many techniques and curly hair products tailored for her wavy texture. I’m happy to share our favorite routine that works wonders for her.

This comprehensive wavy hair routine guide is your compass in navigating the world of textured hair care, specifically designed for curly girls with type 2a, 2b, and 2c hair.

From essential wash day tips and tricks to crucial refresh day routines, this post unveils a wavy hair routine that you simply must try!

Following this 2a, 2b, 2c routine would leave you with softer, more manageable waves and curls, ensuring vibrant and healthy hair.

Ready to embark on this transformative journey to embrace your natural waves and curls? Let’s delve into crafting the ultimate 2a, 2b, 2c hair routine together.

Click here If you’re interested in the best products for 2a 2b 2c hair

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What Are Wavy Hair Types: 2a 2b 2c

Some people with type 2 hair have trouble figuring out whether they have straight, wavy or curly hair types. This can be true, especially for those with 2a hair or 2b hair.

So let’s look at the categories of type 2 hair and their hair pattern.

The natural pattern of 2a, 2b, and 2c are considered wavy hair types. The natural hair texture is between type 1 (straight) and type 3 (curly) which makes it hard sometimes to figure out if you have straight hair or curly hair.

You can use this quiz to find out if you have naturally curly hair.

The good news is that knowing your hair type isn’t the most important thing when it comes to hair care. Your hair’s porosity level will ultimately determine your hair care and the hair products you choose for your hair.

However, knowing your hair type is still a good place to start when determining how to care for your hair, as it gives some general understanding of what you can expect from your hair texture.

2a Hair

2a hair has soft waves and is most often mistaken for straight, frizzy hair. People with 2a waves have fine and don’t have a well-defined wave.

Using lightweight products to enhance natural waves and add moisture like leave-in conditioner, mousse, and light gels is a must.

Heavier products, like thick curl creams, will weigh down type 2a hair, making already fine hair look limp and flat.

2b Hair

2b hair is a bit wavier than 2a and is also prone to some frizz. 2b hair can look curly as there is a definite s pattern but oftentimes, curl activators and curly hair styling techniques are needed to enhance 2b curls.

2b hair is also typically fine and light weight products are also recommended to add hydrations, tame frizz, and enhance natural waves.

2c Hair

2c hair has a more defined ‘s’ pattern and tends to frizz more easily compared with 2a and 2b.

Your best bet for 2c curls is still lightweight hair products for hydration and definition to tame frizz and define waves. A stronger hold gel can be used for 2c curls to ensure your wash day lasts longer.

Nobody has the exact same hair type all over their head. This means that you can have a combination of hair types. To name a few:

• 2a 2b hair
• 2b 2c hair
• 2c 3a hair

Keep in mind that the type of hair you have is less important than the overall health and porosity of your hair. For example, if you have damaged 2a hair, the products you use will be different to someone with healthy 2a hair. So be sure to assess your hair before looking for products to take care of and style it.

Curly Girl Method For 2a 2b 2c Curly Hair

Unraveling the Curly Girl Method: Unlocking the Benefits for 2a, 2b, 2c Wavy Hair Types

The Curly Girl Method (CGM) is an innovative hair care approach specifically designed to enhance the natural beauty of textured hair, including wavy, curly, and coily locks.

If you have type 2a, 2b, or 2c wavy hair, you may be wondering how the CGM can help you unlock the full potential of your waves.

In this section, we’ll explain the Curly Girl Method basics and its benefits for your wavy hair type 2a 2b or 2c.

Understanding the Curly Girl Method

The CGM was created by Lorraine Massey to address the unique needs of textured hair, which often requires specialized care to maintain its health and beauty.

The method focuses on gentle hair care practices and emphasizes the use of natural, nourishing products to enhance the hair’s natural texture.

The Curly Girl Method can be tailored to suit various hair types, including 2a, 2b, and 2c wavy hair, making it a versatile solution for those seeking to embrace their natural waves.

Key Benefits of the Curly Girl Method for Wavy Hair Types 2a, 2b, and 2c

1. Improved Hair Health: The CGM promotes the use of gentle, sulfate-free cleansers and silicone-free conditioners that prevent damage and buildup. By adopting this approach, you can improve the overall health of your 2a, 2b, or 2c wavy hair.
2. Enhanced Wave Definition: The Curly Girl Method encourages the use of styling techniques and products that define and enhance your natural waves. By scrunching, plopping, or using a diffuser on a low heat setting, you can unlock the full potential of your type 2 hair.
3. Reduced Frizz and Breakage: By eliminating heat styling, using a microfiber towel or cotton t-shirt to dry your hair, and deep conditioning regularly, the CGM helps minimize frizz and breakage. This results in smoother, more manageable waves for 2a, 2b, and 2c hair types.
4. Customizable Routine: The Curly Girl Method can be tailored to suit your specific hair type and needs. Experiment with different CGM-approved products and techniques to find the perfect routine for your 2a, 2b, or 2c wavy hair.

Embrace the Journey to Beautiful Wavy Hair

Incorporating the Curly Girl Method into your hair care routine can work wonders for your 2a, 2b, or 2c wavy hair.

By adopting the right techniques, products, and practices, you can unlock the full potential of your natural waves and enjoy healthier, more stunning hair.

Begin your CGM journey today and discover the benefits that await you and your textured tresses.

the Curly Girl Method for 2a, 2b, 2c Hair : A Step-by-Step Guide

Embarking on the Curly Girl Method for your type 2 hair journey may seem daunting at first, but incorporating a few essential steps into your hair care routine can work wonders for your textured hair.

Key practices for 2a, 2b, 2c hair types (Curly Girl Method):

1. Say No to Heat Styling
2. Embrace Deep Conditioning
3. Choose the Right Products
4. Ditch the Traditional Towel
5. Apply Styling Products on Damp Hair

Say No to Heat Styling

Protect your type 2 hair from heat damage by avoiding flat irons, curling wands, and hair dryers. Embrace your natural waves and curls by letting your hair air dry or using a diffuser on a low heat setting.

Embrace Deep Conditioning

To repair and nourish your textured hair, incorporate a weekly deep conditioning treatment into your routine. Look for products specifically designed for 2a, 2b, or 2c hair types to provide the targeted care your hair needs.

Choose the Right Products

Opt for hair care products free of parabens, silicones, and sulfates, as these ingredients can weigh down your waves or curls and cause buildup. Seek out CGM-approved products that enhance the health and beauty of your type 2 hair.

Ditch the Traditional Towel

Instead of using a regular towel, which can cause frizz and breakage, use a microfiber towel or a cotton t-shirt to gently remove excess water from your hair after washing.

Apply Styling Products on Damp Hair

To lock in moisture and define your curls or waves, apply your favorite styling products to damp hair. This helps distribute the product evenly and prevents your hair from becoming weighed down or crunchy.

Don’t Give Up on Your Wavy Hair Journey

As you embark on the Curly Girl Method for your 2a, 2b, or 2c hair type, remember that consistency is key.

Be patient with the process and allow your hair the time it needs to transition and embrace its natural texture.

With dedication and the right care, you’ll soon enjoy the stunning, healthy waves or curls you’ve always dreamed of.

Check out this post for more easy to follow guidelines of the curly girl method for beginners.

How Can I Make Type 2 Hair Curlier

The easiest way to naturally make type 2 hair curlier is to follow the best practices for curly hair outlined in this post. Your 2a 2b 2c hair will become healthier and naturally more defined.

This means that your natural curl pattern will be enhanced and therefore, wavier and curlier.

When your waves are damaged from heat straightening or harsh coloring, the result is loose waves or curls.

When you use best practices for your wavy hair texture, your damaged hair will transition and your natural waves will emerge, leaving you with wavier or curlier hair.

Pro Tip: In addition to following best curly girl practices, use techniques such as finger coiling and hair plopping, to train your 2a 2b or 2c hair to be curlier faster.

2a 2b 2c Curly Hair Wash Day Routine

Similar to my 3a 3b routine, your wavy hair wash day routine is important for long lasting waves.

My mom has type 2b 2c hair and this is the routine she follows to get gorgeous, long lasting waves and curls. Follow this routine and get great results:

1. Wash with a sulfate free shampoo
2. Condition or deep condition – squish to condish
3. Rinse out

Cleansing Type 2 Hair

Begin your wavy hair wash day routine with cleansing your scalp and hair.

This is important to remove product build up that can weigh down your hair, making it look lymph and dull.

Natural oils and product build up can also clog hair follicles on your scalp, preventing hair growth.

To cleanse 2a 2b 2c hair:

• Apply a sulfate free shampoo to your scalp only
• Gently scrub your scalp with your finger tips or a shampoo brush to ensure all build-up is removed.
• Move the shampoo down your hair shaft to cleanse the length of your hair.
• Rinse hair thoroughly

This is sufficient to cleanse the length of your hair without causing any damage.

If you’re now starting with the curly girl method, you can use a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup from any styling product that contained ingredients like silicone or heavy oils.

How Often Should You Wash 2a 2b 2c Hair?

It’s generally safe to gently cleanse your wavy hair with a sulfate free, gentle shampoo, once or twice a week.

Cleansing too often can dry out your hair and not cleansing enough can leave hair oil and lifeless.

If you’re unsure about when to wash your hair, take cues from how it looks and feels.

Conditioning 2a 2b 2c Hair

Conditioning is important for easy detangling and hydrating your strands. If you’re following the curly girl method, look for a conditioner that is silicone free.

• Apply enough conditioner or deep conditioner
• distribute it through your hair.
• use a detangling brush or your fingers to detangle and help with even distribution.

Most wavy girls get the best results when they “squish to condish” at this point.

Squish To Condish Type 2 Hair

Squish to condish is a technique used to hydrate and encourage definition.

To squish to condish, simply scrunch your hair after even distribution of conditioner. This technique allows moisture to get into your hair shaft and hydrate your strands.

Once the recommended time has passed, rinse the conditioner out of your hair. Gently squeeze excess water with your hands before applying your preferred styling products.

How To Style 2a 2b 2c Hair

The way you style your hair and the styling products you use will ultimately depend on your hair’s porosity level and overall health.

Some wavy girls love to apply styling products to soaking wet hair while others get better results when they apply to damp hair.

Some love to apply their products standing upright, while others like to style with their heads upside down.

These styling tips have changed many wavy girls’ lives by transforming their once “straight hair” into gorgeous, waves with a tousled texture.

The amount of a styling product you use will depend on whether you have thin hair or thick hair.

Start off with a pea sized amount and work your way up until you’re satisfied with your results.

Experimenting with different styling techniques and products is the best way to find out what works best for you.

Curly Hair Routine For Type 2 Hair (2a 2b 2c):

1. Apply a leave in conditioner and brush through to distribute
2. Apply lightweight styling cream (optional)
3. Smooth Gel Over Your hair
4. Gently Scrunch hair
5. Air dry or diffuse
6. Scrunch out the crunch with your preferred oil or serum

No matter which styling techniques work best for you, apply your products in this order to enhance your waves.

This works well for any 2a, 2b, and 2c hair routine.

Leave In Conditioners For Type 2 Hair

Lightweight leave ins are important to add moisture to your wavy hair and won’t weigh down your hair (especially if your have fine hair).

Most wavy girls get the best results by using the praying hands technique to apply leave ins to their hair.

This method distributes the product through your hair without breaking up wavy clumps too much. If you struggled with stringy hair before, this styling technique will be a game changer for you.

Once you’ve applied your leave in, use a denman brush over a wide tooth comb, to ensure even distribution and maximum definition of your natural waves.

Read these recommendations for the best products for 2a/2b 2c hair

Apply Lightweight Cream

Using a lightweight curl cream is optional as the leave in may be sufficient to add moisture to your hair. However, if your waves need additional moisture to fight frizz, apply a small amount of your preferred curl cream. A curl cream will also enhance your natural waves leaving you with undeniably gorgeous, bouncy beach waves.

You can use the praying hands method again to apply the curl cream and then use the denman brush to ensure even distribution.

You can also style your hair using the Denman brush or you can simply scrunch your hair to encourage clumping and definition.

Read these recommendations for the best products for 2a/2b 2c hair

Smooth Gel Over Your Hair

Smooth a small amount (pea sized amount) of gel or mousse to hold your waves in place.

After rubbing some gel in the palm of your hands, smooth the product over your wavy clumps.

To apply mousse, use one pump of the product and scrunch it into your hair.

Read these recommendations for the best products for 2a/2b 2c hair

And here, find

Gently Scrunch Gel Into Your Waves

With the gel or mousse applied, gently scrunch your clumped waves for maximum definition.

Once you’re satisfied with the definition and you’ve finished scrunching, don’t touch your hair again until it’s completely dry.

As your hair dries, a gel cast will form to hold your waves in place.

Air Dry Or Diffuse

Air drying is best until the gel cast forms completely. Be careful not to touch your hair to prevent frizz.

Once the gel cast forms and your hair is almost dry, you can diffuse to encourage volume while completely drying your waves.

Diffuse using a blow dryer on low heat or cool to avoid any damage.

Once your hair is completely dry, your hair may still look flat and hard because of the gel cast.

This is totally normal and ok – next, we’ll sotc (scrunch out the crunch).

Pro tip: Try not to touch your waves as you diffuse.

Scrunch Out The Crunch With Oil Or Serum

Once your hair is totally dry, you can scrunch out the crunch in a few ways.

Most wavy girls get great results by scrunching with their hands and no additional products.

However, if you prefer, you can rub a small amount of oil or frizz free serum in the palm of your hands before scrunching out the crunch. This prevents frizz and adds shine to your waves.

Flip your hair over and from side to side as you scrunch to encourage volume.

Once you’ve scrunched out the crunch, the result will be gorgeous, soft beach waves.

If you’ve used strong enough hold products to style your wavy hair, you can expect your wash day results to last a few days with refreshes in between for 2b hair & 2c hair. 2a hair may need to be refreshed daily.

My mom’s wavy wash day hair can last her all week, with very quick daily refreshes.

Read more about how to scrunch out the crunch

How To Sleep With 2a 2b 2c Hair

After styling, you don’t want to get it messed up while you sleep, right? So, learning how to sleep with textured hair is key to preserving your waves for the next day. How you sleep will also protect your waves and minimize hair damage.

This is how you should sleep with short or long 2a 2b or 2c curly hair:

1. Put hair in a loose pineapple with a satin scrunchie
2. Use a satin bonnet or scarf
3. Sleep on a satin pillowcase to reduce friction

For more tips on how to sleep with your wavy hair, check out this post.

Refresh Routine For 2a 2b 2c Hair

Refreshing curly hair starts on wash day and learning the best ways to sleep with type 2 hair.

Using the right products on wash day will provide a good foundation for the week and will make refreshing your waves so easy!

Protecting your waves while you sleep will also help on refresh days by minimizing frizz and damage while you sleep.

On the days following your wash day, there are a few ways to refresh your hair but these are the most popular ways for 2a 2b or 2c hair.

Refresh Day Routine Option 1 For 2a 2b 2c Hair: Dry Refresh

1. Take down your hair from the pineapple
2. Shake out your waves gently
3. Smooth a serum to beat any frizz
4. Scrunch

And that’s it! This refresh method works the best for my mom’s 2b curls. So easy and super simple.

Refresh Day Routine Option 2 For 2a 2b 2c Hair: Damp Refresh

1. Take down your hair from the pineapple
2. Shake out your waves gently
3. Spritz water or leave in over your hair
4. Scrunch with your hands or a cotton t shirt
5. Apply mousse or lightweight gel
6. Scrunch
7. Air dry or Diffuse
8. Scrunch out the crunch with an oil or serum

Best Products For 2a 2b 2c Hair

These are some of the best curly girl method approved products for type 2 hair (2a 2b 2c):

1. Curl Smith Wash & Scrub Detox Pro Biotic Shampoo
2. Curl Smith Multi Tasking Conditioner
3. Briogeo Don’t Despair Repair Deep Conditioner
4. Cantu Shea Butter Natural Hair Moisturizing Curl Activator Cream
5. Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie
6. Bounce Curl Light Hold Creme Gel
7. Curl Smith Curl Defining Styling Souffle
8. Aussie Instant Freeze Gel
9. Herbal Essences Totally Twisting Curl Boosting Mousse

To purchase any of these on Amazon, just click on the product above.

Also, Check Out These Other recommended Best Products For 2a 2b 2c Hair.

Wrapping Up This Easy Curly Girl Routine For 2a 2b 2c Hair

I hope this easy curly girl routine will help you with your type 2 hair.

Whether you have 2a 2b or 2c hair, the techniques and curly girl products recommended in this post should help you figure out what works best for your hair type.

Remember, what works best on one person may not work best for you. And, what works for you this month, may not work next month.

Always assess your hair’s health and porosity to determine what products your hair needs (moisture or protein) and the techniques that your hair responds to the best.

Before You Go, You Will Love These Other Posts For Curly Hair:

Product Reviews

• 5 Ways To Use Coconut Oil To Transform Curls
• Hairitage Curl Creme – Curly Girl Approved Curl Cream Review
• Aussie Instant Freeze Gel – Curly Girl Approved Gel Review
• Eco Argan Oil Gel – Curly Girl Approved Protein Gel Review
• Kinky Curly Curling Custard Product Review
• Curly Girl Product Review – Cantu Moisturizing Curl Activator Cream
• Dippity Do Girls With Curls Gelee Review

Product recommendations

• 3a 3b Curly Curly Girl Method Approved Products
• Best Drugstore Curly Hair Products
• Affordable Curly Girl Products For 2a 2b 2c Wavy Hair
• Sulfate Free (Low Poo) Shampoos – Curl Girl Method Approved
• Curly Girl Method Deep Conditioners You Need To Try
• Best Curly Girl Approved Gels
• Safe Curly Hair Products for Kids

• Ingredients To Avoid For Curly Hair
• Best Curly Girl Accessories You Must Try
• Curly Girl Gift Guide – Get Something On This List For The Curly Girl In Your Life

Important Information To Care For Curls & Waves

• Learn How To Deep Condition Curly Hair
• Find Out How Often Should You Use Leave In Conditioner
• Can You Put Leave In Conditioner On Dry Hair?
• Can You Leave Conditioner In Your Hair?
• Find Out What Happens If You Leave Conditioner In Your Hair
• How To Fix Wet Frizz
• How To Start The Curly Girl Method
• This Is How To Tell If You Have Naturally Curly Hair – Take the free quiz

Dyeing Textured Hair At Home Without Damaging It

• How To Dye Curly Hair At Home- No Damage
• Dyeing Curly Hair At Home FAQs

Wavy & Curly Hair Routines & hairstyles

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• Wavy Hair Styling Routine 2a 2b 2c Curls
• Curly Hair Winter Routine
• How To Style Low Density, Fine Cury Hair
• How To Grow Curly Hair Faster
• 3 Easy Ways To Sleep With Curly Hair Without Ruining Your Curls

• How To Do A Messy Curly Bun In No Time

• Fun Curly Hair Quotes