How To Get Ghost Waves

One of the biggest hair trends making waves (literally) in the beauty world is the rise of Ghost Waves, a style that celebrates minimal yet effortlessly chic texture. If you're tired of overly polished curls or pin-straight hair, ghost waves might just be the perfect look for you. Combining carefree bohemian vibes and punk grunge with a celebration of mixed textures, this hairstyle is as relaxed as it is sophisticated.

What Are Ghost Waves?

Coined by trend forecaster, hairstylist Tom Smith, Ghost Waves are best described as “barely there waves that undulate in a soft ‘S’ shape.” The look is all about embracing unexpectedly relaxed hair texture in a way that feels natural, undone, and effortlessly cool.

Ghost waves differ from traditional curls and waves because they focus on subtle movement rather than uniform definition. Ideal for anyone with a natural texture that leans toward waves, this style prioritizes mixed patterns, soft volume, and messy elegance.

Why We Love Ghost Waves

Ghost waves are perfect for those who love a low-maintenance yet trendy hairstyle. Whether you’re working with your natural texture or achieving the look with styling tools, ghost waves radiate a carefree vibe while still feeling polished. The versatile style is described as relaxed, that is ideal for catching the softer side of trends, yet still modern enough to make you stand out.

How to Get Ghost Waves

Products You’ll Need:

Heat Protectant Spray – To shield your hair from damage if heat styling is involved.

Styling Cream or Mousse – A cream-based product can enhance natural wave patterns.

Choice of Hot Tool– Necessary for creating undulating “S” shapes.

Wide-Tooth Comb – Perfect for brushing through the waves without overworking them. 

Dry Texturizing Spray (Optional) – To add volume and a lightweight, undone texture.

Step-by-Step Tutorial for Ghost Waves:

Make sure your hair is clean and dry. If you have naturally wavy hair, you can let your hair air-dry with a styling cream for an even softer finish. Here’s how:

• Apply Ultimate Hair Cream evenly from mid-lengths to ends to enhance your natural waves.
• Comb through gently using a wide-tooth comb to distribute the product while keeping your texture intact.

Prep with Heat Protectant

If you plan to use hot tools (such as a flat or curling iron), spray your hair with Superior Blowout Mist to protect your hair from heat. This will minimize damage and lock in shine while styling.

Create the Waves

If your hair doesn’t naturally fall into soft “S” shapes, you can create ghost waves with hot tools. Here’s how:

• Start by clamping a section of your hair near the roots. Rotate the flat iron half a turn outward, then gently pull it down a few inches.
• Next, rotate the flat iron in the opposite direction and continue sliding it down the length of your hair, alternating directions until the end to create the wave.

If you find your waves are too tight or too uniform, take random sections and gently run your hot tool over pieces to loosen the wave.

Natural Waves Without Heat:

If you prefer non-heated methods, braid damp hair loosely before bed or twist sections into relaxed buns. In the morning, release the hair for loose ghost waves.

• Start with clean, damp hair, and add your products.
• Divide it into sections and braid each section loosely, alternating the braid's tension to mimic the "S" wave pattern.
• Leave the braids in overnight or until dry, then carefully undo them and finger-comb for soft, heat-free waves.

Add Finishing Touches

Once the waves have been created, flip your hair upside down to add volume, and lightly mist with Dry Texture Spray for undone, boho coolness. Avoid brushes and instead lightly comb your fingers or a wide-tooth comb through the waves for an imperfect, relaxed finish.

Tips for Long-Lasting Ghost Waves

Ghost waves are already low-maintenance, but keeping them intact for days requires just a little extra effort. Here are some tips:

Use the Right Products: Lightweight styling products such as mousse, dry shampoo, or texturizing spray can add hold and enhance volume without weighing the waves down.

Avoid Over-Styling: Over-brushing or finger-combing can flatten ghost waves. Instead, gently separate them and let them settle naturally.

Refresh Without Heat: To revive ghost waves on the second day, lightly mist your hair from mid-shaft to ends with Sea Salt Serum and scrunch your strands or use an overnight headband curling trick to restore texture.