DIY Beach Waves

Beach waves à la Gisele are always on our summertime hair wish list — but an actual trip to the beach isn’t always an option. Besides, my “day at the beach hair” is less sexy, tousled waves and more of a sand-filled mop topped with greasy sunscreen.

SHOP: Get the Science on Salt + Shop Products Proven to Work

The actual concept of these loose waves involves the sea salt in the ocean that’s known to give your hair texture that creates a messy (aka “beachy”) look that’s so coveted, companies now bottle it for big bucks. Here’s the deal: You don’t need to spend a ton of money when you can make it at home. We’ve tested the best recipes for a DIY salt spray, and this one makes the cut for the best bathroom beach waves.

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DIY Sea Salt Spray Recipe

• 8 oz. of warm water
• 4 or 5 drops of the essential oil of your choosing (coconut has a great beach-y scent) or macadamia oil
• 2 teaspoons of course sea salt or Epsom salt
• 1 teaspoon of gel
• Spray bottle (add all the above together and shake!)
• Spray on towel-dried hair and scrunch with hands.

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I’m not a DIY kind of gal, but most of the bottled brands contain an excessive amount of salt or alcohol, and dry out your hair (like the ocean!) I tried Sally Hershberger Shagg Spray ($13) and I’m pleased to say that it doesn’t suck the life out of your hair thanks to the bi-phase formula that has both silk protein and sea salt.

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Sea Salt Products Proven to Work

Sachajuan, Ocean Mist and Clarisea, Beachy Waves Salt Spray: Hair

Ruben Colon, Senior Stylist at Sally Hershberger Downtown New York salon says that the key to at-home beach hair is to start with “not-so-clean” locks. Colon prefers hair that’s been unwashed for a day or two because the natural oils help give it a beachy affect.

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He advises to apply the spray on damp hair. “Seventy percent dry hair with only a little moisture is preferable because completely dry locks gives too much hold. From there, you can simply spray, scrunch (not too much or you’ll get a crunchy, hard look!), and you’re done.” Colon adds, “It’s okay to have a little frizz and a windblown texture. It actually looks cool that way.” Now that’s something we can get behind.

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