So take the time to learn this skill as it will be a technique you will continue to use in your career as stylists. There is several ways the finger wave has changed over the years from the traditional wet set to the thermal set technique.

Styling products that you can use for Finger Waving or Setting Lotions by CHI Waving lotion

It is important to use a good styling product that is flexible and is a type of hair gel used during the finger-waving procedure that makes the hair manageable enough to keep it in place. This lotion is commonly made from a product taken from trees found in India and Africa called karaya (kuh-Ry-uh) gum. This gum can be used in a richer consistency on medium or coarse hair, or it can be weakened to be used on fine hair.

If you are applying a good waving lotion on the hair, it should not flake once it’s dry. However, make sure you do not use more than needed. If you do, the hair will be too wet and cause the lotion to drip down.

Liquid styling gels can also be used in place of karaya gum products for finger waving. You can utilize Farouk Royal Treatment Style Illumination, which is a medium hold defining gel that is ideal for shaping and molding without flaking or buildup.

CHI Royal Treatment Style Illumination	CHI Infra Gel Maximum Control Gel	CHI Straight Guard Smoothing Styling Cream
White Truffle & Pearl Soft control hold for light to medium styling Gel that will supply incredible body, volume and support Leaves hair touchable with unbelievable shine	Powerful and impressive hold Shapes, molds, define No flaking or build up–just incredible shine and control	Transforms frizzy, and curly hair into smooth, sleek styles Cream base delivers unheard of control and shine

Other Finger Waving Techniques

You can complete the first wave on one side of the head. After that, create the first wave on the other side of the head. Continue repeating the same procedure until the entire head is completed. This technique is another option instead of completing one full side and then completing the other.

Horizontal finger waves are parallel and side by side around the head. Vertical finger waves are vertical around the head. However, the same procedure will need to be followed for both types of finger waves.