The 7 Best Hair Wavers to Achieve Perfect Mermaid Hair in 2023

Tori Landsberg is the senior director of education at Drybar.

Tara Simich is the founder of Mermade Hair.

Jes Jewel is a celebrity colorist based in Los Angeles.

If you think all curling tools are the same, think again! “The hair waver achieves a very different look than a traditional curling iron,” says Landsberg. “The waver tends to bend the hair to create beachy waves for that perfect tousled look. Whereas a curling iron will give you a more defined, classic curl.”

They can also be more beginner-friendly, thanks to their speed and efficiency. “Wavers and curling tongs both add movement, curl or wave to the hair, but wavers have a few benefits that many people don’t know,” adds Simich. “Firstly, wavers can be a lot easier to use as you only have to clamp down to get three even waves, rather than twisting, curling, and wrapping the hair in a curling tong. They also give you a neater and more consistent wave pattern rather than a curling tong that can look different depending on your technique. They are also a serious time-saver as they have three barrels that can create several waves all at once. Lastly, waves last longer as there is more surface area of the hair manipulated by the heat so the cuticle is more inclined to hold shape. Some hair types will hold waves for up to 14 days, compared to curls that may drop after a day.”

“I recommend using a waver on clean, dry hair, or, if needed, applying dry shampoo for a freshly-washed feel,” says Jewel. “Instead of holding the tool horizontal, try holding it at different angles for a more natural, imperfect wave. Use small subsections of hair closer to the root on bottom sections for extra volume.”

For a more tousled look, Simich actually recommends using a hair waver on day two hair. “We recommend waving your hair 24 hours after washing your hair so that there are some natural oils and textures which help the cuticle hold the S-wave shape. Next, add a heat protectant to protect your hair from heat damage and also to add some hydration which also helps with locking in curls and waves.”

Hair wavers can be very versatile. “Holding the tool horizontally, start at the crown and work your way down the section by opening and releasing the clamp,” instructs Landsberg. “Hold for several seconds until desired definition is achieved. Repeat until the whole section is waved. For a deeper, more defined wave, keep the section clamped a few seconds longer.”

“Yes, but it may require a bit of experimentation to find the right technique for your specific hair type,” says Landsberg. “The great thing about hair wavers is that you can create natural-looking waves and texture in seconds.” However, depending on your hair type, you may want to pay special attention to barrel dimensions and heat settings. “Fine hair will naturally look more defined and suit the larger 1.25-inch jumbo waver, while thick or curly hair can use the smaller - inch Mini Waver,” adds Simich. “Shakira is a great example of someone who uses a waver to add more movement to her natural wavy hair texture.”

As tempting as it might be, avoid cranking up your hot tools to the maximum temperature. “I recommend adjusting the waver’s temperature for each hair type, however, don’t go above 350ºF,” cautions Jewel. As always, remember to use a heat protectant before going in with any styling tools.

Hair wavers are typically larger than your average curling wand, which can be intimidating to use on shorter lengths. However, that doesn’t mean they’re not for you. “Wavers are actually more effective on shorter hair than curling tongs as the hair can be styled closer to the root,” says Simich. “You can do one clamp from eye level for a textured look, or several clamps from the root for more defined waves.” However, you may want to be gentle when styling. “I recommend experimenting with clamping the waver softly for a soft glam wave on shorter lengths,” adds Jewel.

“Always treat before you heat!” says Landsberg. Proper care before and after styling with a waver is key. All of our experts recommend using a heat protectant before using a hot tool, both for protection and to add nourishment to the hair. Some of their favorites are Drybar’s Hot Toddy Heat Protectant, the Mermade Mist, and Amika’s Water Sign Hydrating Oil. After styling, using a spray to lock in the waves is key. Their favorites are Drybar’s Final Call Frizz & Static Control Spray and Amika’s Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray for the perfect bedhead look.

As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, Tatjana Freund spoke with experts and hair stylists about the benefits of hair wavers how to use them. Freund also tested a few top-rated tools and pored over reviews for dozens of others, evaluating each on their features and customer feedback.