What are 360 Waves?
When you think of waves, a serene image of the ocean may come into mind. The picturesque tides that crash upon the shore are similar to the pattern of hair waves created by the 360 wave process. The 360 waves process is cultivated by brushing the curls in a specific fashion that creates the “ripple effect” on the hair in all directions, or at the angle of “360” degrees. 360 waves are a symbol of identity for the Black Community in America and across the world.
History of 360 Waves & The Durag
The 360 wave hairstyle is associated with the durag for its functional use in styling 360 waves. The wave process and wearing of durags dates back to the 19th-century when slave women used head wraps to tie their hair up while doing strenuous labor. Since then, durags have become a staple hair care item for wavers to use as a means to training curl patterns and locking down hairstyles. The durag was explicitly used for functional reasons up until the 1990’s, when hip-hop and the fashion industry made light of the durag as a mainstream fashion accessory (American rapper Nelly being one of the names credited for sparking the durag trend). Now, the durag represents pride in natural hair, fashion in the media, and remains an essential hair styling tool for wavers worldwide.
The 360 Wave Process
The 360 wave process can take anywhere from 6 weeks to 3 months, and requires patience, consistency and maintenance in order to manifest and preserve this hairstyle. Dominantly worn by black men, 360 waves are best achieved with short, curly hair types. While some hair types facilitate the 360 wave process better than others, waves can be accomplished with almost any hair type. The only difference? Time. The time it takes for 360 waves to settle and produce a perfected wave pattern depends on hair type, texture and hair health. Having the right tools and accessories, such as a wave brush, wave shampoo and conditioner, pomade, hair lotion and a high-quality durag, are key. Exercising patience with the process will serve anyone who is attempting 360 waves.