There’s quite something about a well-executed wet-look hairstyle — it’s equal parts chic and sensual, edgy yet effortless. No wonder, then, that it’s become a red carpet favourite for so many celebrities of late, from Bella Hadid to Kim Kardashian to Megan Fox. Although fairly simple to create, a wet hair look requires a slightly nuanced approach. After all, you don’t want your hair to end up looking like soppy, frizzy mess.
The goal is quite the opposite, in fact — you’re looking for high-shine, glossy strands that stay in place. Below, find our best tips and hacks to recreate an Instagram-worthy wet hairstyle, plus our best hacks on how to avoid dripping undone hair!
Prep the right way
You probably already guessed this, but the first step is to start with damp hair. Remember, your hair doesn’t have to be wet for a wet hair look (that would be quite inconvenient and not the best for the health of your hair); it just needs to look wet. It also helps if your hair is freshly washed and conditioned — make sure you use lots of hydrating haircare products in your wash routine to give your hair an extra boost of moisture and shine.
Next, towel dry your hair to squeeze out all the excess water until your hair is damp.However, make sure your hair is not too wet since this will result in the strands clumping together and your scalp showing in places. Once your hair is appropriately damp, apply a leave-in conditioner or serum to the lengths, and you’re all set to begin!
Pick your products
There are a couple of different products (or product combinations) that you can use in order to create this look. The products you choose depend on the exact type of wet hairstyle you’re looking to create. The hair styling products you use will also determine the texture of your wet hair look and how long it holds.
For a ‘Put-Together’ look
For this ‘holds-in-place-for-hours’ kinda ‘do, going in with just a hair gel should suffice. The best hair gel for wet looks that last all day is one that delivers a high-shine look with a strong hold. Most hair gels with a strong hold will give you a sleek look that lasts all day but can leave your hair feeling crunchy and hard until the hair gel is washed out, so if that’s not your thing, you might want to try the next alternate method of creating the wet look.
Tira recommends:
Sebastian Professional Gel Forte Strong for Stronger Hold
For a soft, ‘Undone’ look
Take a leave-in hair cream and mix it with your hair gel in equal parts. This will keep your hair looking damp and glossy but will still keep them soft to touch and will keep your strands from feeling too sticky or crunchy. You can choose a hair gel that provides a medium to high hold for this look. Although it might not last for nearly as long, this product combination will help you achieve a more natural-looking wet look while keeping your hair soft and glossy.
Tira recommends:
Milk Shake Lifestyling Medium Hold Hair Gel
Finishing touches
Once you’ve chosen your products for your desired look, apply the gel (or the gel-crème combo) to damp hair. Make sure to apply a good amount but not in excess since this can make your hair appear sticky, crunchy or weighed down. Slick your hair back at the temples and the crown to make to give a ‘just-stepped-out-of-the-shower’ appearance. Use your fingers or a wide-toothed comb for this, and remember to be gentle while styling since damp hair is more prone to breakage and frizz. Once you’re satisfied with the shape and style, finish with a shine-enhancing hair spray to add a sheen and to hold your style in place.
Tira recommends:
Wella Professionals Eimi Mistify Me Strong Hair Spray
Cover Image : Instagram/@meganfox
