Wolfing 360 Waves: Why You Need the Right Brush to Maintain Your Waves

Before we get into the tools and techniques needed, it's important to understand what wolfing really is. Wolfing refers to the process of allowing your hair to grow longer than your usual cut time without trimming or cutting it down. This technique helps to create deeper and more defined 360 waves by allowing the wave pattern to settle in and form more tightly over a longer stretch of hair. While a regular cut might trim away new wave formations, wolfing lets them grow uninterrupted.

Most wavers opt to wolf for around 4-8 weeks, but some dedicated wavers extend it to 12 weeks or more. However, as your hair grows longer, the difficulty of maintaining your wave pattern increases. You will need to brush more frequently and with the right brush to ensure that your waves remain intact under the lengthening hair.


Why You Need a Hard Bristle Brush for Wolfing

During wolfing, your hair becomes longer and thicker, making it difficult for softer bristle brushes to reach the roots and lay the hair down properly. This is where a hard bristle wave brush comes into play. Hard bristle brushes, like the Kosher Wave Brush, are designed to provide the firmness and tension needed to control your hair as it grows out.

Here’s why a hard bristle brush is essential during wolfing:

  • Penetrates Thick Hair: As your hair grows longer, it becomes more difficult for softer bristles to reach your scalp. A hard bristle brush can penetrate through thick layers of hair, allowing you to lay down your waves and prevent the hair from curling up.

  • Maintains Wave Pattern: The hard bristles help maintain your wave pattern by ensuring that the hair stays in place. Without regular brushing with a hard bristle brush, your waves may lose their definition and turn into curls.

  • Tames Frizz: Longer hair tends to frizz more, especially if it’s not brushed regularly. A hard bristle brush is excellent at controlling frizz and keeping your hair smooth and manageable during the wolfing phase.

Kosher Wave Hard Bristle Wave Brush is perfect for this phase because it’s designed to provide enough tension to lay down your waves while being gentle enough to avoid breakage.


How to Maintain Waves During Wolfing

Maintaining your waves during wolfing requires more than just a good brush. It’s a combination of consistent brushing, moisturizing, and protecting your hair at night. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to keep your waves in check during this critical phase:

1. Brush Regularly

Brushing is the cornerstone of wave maintenance, especially during wolfing. You need to brush your hair multiple times a day to ensure that your wave pattern stays intact. Here’s how to do it:

  • Brush in the Direction of Your Waves: Always brush in the direction of your wave pattern. If you're brushing the top, brush forward. For the sides, brush down toward your ears, and for the back, brush downward toward your neck.

  • Frequency: Brush at least 3-4 times a day during wolfing. Since your hair is longer, it needs more attention to stay smooth and wavy.

  • Use a Hard Bristle Brush: As mentioned earlier, a hard bristle brush like the Kosher Wave Hard Bristle Wave Brush will help penetrate your longer hair and lay it down effectively.

2. Keep Your Hair Moisturized

Longer hair is more prone to dryness, and dry hair can lead to frizz, tangles, and a disrupted wave pattern. Moisturizing your hair is crucial during wolfing. Here's how to do it:

  • Use a Leave-In Conditioner: A leave-in conditioner can keep your hair hydrated throughout the day. The Kosher Wave Hair Conditioning Spray is a great option for adding moisture without weighing your hair down.

  • Oil-Based Moisturizers: Using a natural oil-based moisturizer can help lock in moisture and give your waves a healthy shine. Look for products that are free of harsh chemicals and rich in natural oils like coconut oil, jojoba oil, or argan oil.

  • Moisturize Before Brushing: Applying a small amount of moisturizer before brushing can help prevent breakage and ensure that your brush glides smoothly through your hair.

3. Wear a Durag at Night

A durag is one of the most important tools in a waver’s toolkit. Wearing a durag at night helps to hold your wave pattern in place while you sleep, prevents frizz, and reduces moisture loss.

  • Why You Need It: The friction from your pillow can cause your waves to frizz or flatten. A durag creates a barrier between your hair and the pillow, ensuring that your waves stay intact.

  • How to Wear It: Place the durag over your head, making sure it covers all of your hair. Tie it securely, but not too tight, as this could cause discomfort or leave lines on your forehead.

  • When to Wear It: While you should always wear a durag at night, it’s also a good idea to wear it throughout the day when you’re not brushing. This will help to maintain your waves and protect your hair from environmental factors.


Common Challenges During Wolfing

While wolfing is essential for developing deep waves, it’s not without its challenges. Here are some common issues wavers face during wolfing and how to overcome them:

  • Hair Curling Up: As your hair grows longer, it may start to curl up and lose its wave pattern. Regular brushing with a hard bristle brush will help keep it laid down.

  • Frizz: Frizz is a common problem during wolfing. Keeping your hair moisturized and using a durag can help control frizz and keep your hair smooth.

  • Breakage: Long hair is more prone to breakage, especially if it’s dry or not brushed properly. Using the Kosher Wave Hair Conditioning Spray before brushing will reduce the risk of breakage.


Conclusion

Wolfing is a crucial phase in developing deep 360 waves, but without the right tools and care, it can easily turn into a frustrating experience. Using a hard bristle brush, like the Kosher Wave Brush, ensures that your waves stay laid and defined during this period. Combine consistent brushing with proper moisturizing and nightly durag use, and you’ll see the results in the depth and definition of your waves. Embrace the wolfing phase and elevate your wave game with the right tools!


Relevant Products:

  • KosherWave Hard Bristle Wave Brush: Perfect for maintaining your wave pattern during the wolfing phase. Its firm bristles provide the necessary tension to lay down thick, long hair.
  • KosherWave Hair Conditioning Spray: Keeps your hair moisturized and frizz-free during wolfing, helping you maintain smooth, defined waves.
Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.