180 waves are one of the cleanest and most iconic wave styles, but achieving them takes more than just brushing your hair once a day.

From the right haircut and products to consistent brushing and proper maintenance, every step matters.

In this guide, we break down how to get 180 waves easily, explain what waves really are, and walk you through the exact routine needed to build sleek, defined waves that stay laid and sharp.

What are Waves?

Waves are the kind of hair texture that looks like ripples on your head. It is created by fattening out naturally curly or wavy hair, usually with a comb.

The ripples are formed in a circular or semi-circular pattern. There are mainly three different kinds of waves, 360 waves and 180 waves.

360 waves are the waves in which the ripple pattern is formed on your entire head. When the ripple or wave pattern is formed just at the top of the head it is called 180 waves.

720 waves are formed vertically around the head. The key to getting waves is to consistently comb your hair in one direction using a comb. This will help in creating an illusion of waves on your hair.

You also have to make sure that your hair is short while attempting to build the curls and ripples. Waves are a standard hairstyle that can upgrade any outfit and give you a crisp and classy look.

If you are interested in trying out this cool hairstyle, read throughout the step by step guide for detailed information.

Waves can work out on any hair type but it is easily achievable in people with naturally wavy, curly or coily hair.

How To Get 180 Waves

180 waves are not easy to achieve and takes some effort. It can also look untidy if not done in a proper way. Are you one of those people who is tired of trying to achieve the perfect 180 waves?

Are you tired of seeing a mess of your hair after untying that durag in the morning? If yes, we have the perfect solution for you.

Read on to find out the step by step instructions on how to get the perfectly neat 180 waves in no time.

Using the right products to wave your hair

In order to try any sort of hairstyle, your hair and scalp should be healthy, smooth and clean. So it is important to use the right products that can deliver the right results for you.

This is where your hair care products can make a difference. Different hair types and hair goals need different types of shampoos and conditioners that will suit their specific need.

In the case of 360 waves, you need to incorporate a suitable shampoo and conditioner into your everyday hair care routine so your waves are formed neatly.

Most of these shampoos contain ingredients that are excellent moisturisers and can provide nourishment to your coarse and dry hair.

Some of the best shampoos and conditioners that can help you achieve 360-degree waves are:

Shea Moisture Coconut and Hibiscus Shampoo and Conditioner

Cantu Men's Shea Butter 3 in 1 Shampoo

ACURE Wave and Curl Colour Wellness Shampoo

Getting a haircut to get 180 waves

Your hair shouldn't be long if you want to get a 360-degree wave. The haircut you are getting will vary based on where you are in the wave journey.

If you are a beginner in your wave journey, you should start fresh and opt for a lower haircut.

When you go to the barber or hairstylist you should tell them that you would be combing your hair daily.

You can also opt for the fade depending on how you are going to style your waves. Some of the haircuts that you can choose from while going for 360 waves are:

• All around level 1.5 or 2 haircut
• All around level 1.5 or 2 haircuts with side and back taper
• Level 1.5 or 2 haircut with mullet at the back
• Level 1.5 or 2 top hair with an all-around bald fade

Start Brushing for wave

Brushes are an important part of the wave hairstyle. You will have to be consistent with brushing every day to get neat wave formations.

Some of the essential types of brushes that you should add to your hair care kit are:

• A medium-hard crown brush
• A long steel brush
• A double-sided boar-bristle brush

180 waves demand a lot of attention. You will have to keep some time aside every day just to brush your hair.

The quality of your 180 waves will depend on the time and effort you spend brushing your hair.

Do not expect overnight results. If you are patient and consistent enough, you can see visible results in about three to four weeks.

Use a pomade or wave grease

A pomade or wave grease is usually a waxy or creamy substance that will help you get easy waves.

Take a dime-sized product and rub it between the palm of your hands to warm it and make it soft.

Apply the product over your hair and run your fingers through the direction of your waves to evenly distribute it.

Use A Durag

A durag or do-rag is a cloth, usually made of satin that helps in covering your head.

It helps in maintaining moisture on your hair, preventing breakage, preserving hair texture, waves and braids while sleeping.

FAQs on how to get 180 waves

What haircut should I get for 180 waves?

For 180 waves you can get either low, mid or high fades. For 360 waves you'll need a low fade.

What is the difference between 360 and 180 waves?

180 waves appear only on the top portion of your head, while 360 waves wrap around your entire head in a circular pattern.