Mermaid waves are long, glossy and flowing — smoother than beach waves, softer than curls. They start at mid-length and are brushed into one continuous wave.
- Step-by-step for mermaid waves
- Variations and common mistakes
- Works with cordless tools — no socket needed
Tutorial card
- Time: 25–35 minutes
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Best hair length: Mid-back to waist
- Tools: cordless automatic curler, classic cordless straightener
What you need
- The cordless automatic curler
- The classic cordless straightener
- Heat protectant
- Sectioning clips
- A wide-tooth comb
Curlylooks Cordless Automatic CurlerFrom €32.99View productHow to do mermaid waves: step by step
- Smooth prep. Smoothing cream, smooth blow-dry, heat protectant.
- Medium sections. Larger than for curls.
- Start at mid-length. Curl from mid-length to ends; leave the roots smooth.
- Same direction per side. Away from the face on both sides for flowing, connected waves.
- Cool. Let cool fully.
- Brush through. A wide-tooth comb or soft brush to connect waves.
- Shine. A drop of serum through the lengths.
- Smooth the top. Glide the straightener over the root area for a sleek top.
Variations to try
- Half-up mermaid: Pin the top back with a pearl clip.
- Mermaid braid: Loose fishtail braid over waves.
- Shorter version: Same method on shoulder-length hair.
Common mistakes and quick fixes
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Waves look like ringlets | Larger sections, brush through |
| Frizzy finish | Smoothing prep and serum |
| Volume at roots | Start lower and smooth the top |
Curlylooks Cordless Automatic Curler
€32.99
Blush pinkIvory whiteCharcoal blackAdjustable curl direction
Ceramic-coated chamber, adjustable temperature and curl direction, USB rechargeable — and it wraps the hair for you.
Same-direction curls brush out into connected, flowing waves; the straightener keeps the root area sleek.
✦ Pairs well with: The classic straightener for a sleek top · Shine serum · Wide-tooth comb
Best for: Long hair, holidays, photoshoots, festivals
Three ways to start
Get the kit for mermaid waves
Just this look
The cordless automatic curler is all you need for mermaid waves.
Curls and polish
Curl, then smooth the ends and front pieces — the Curl & Polish bundle puts both tools together.
Every look in this series
The Complete Collection covers all our tutorials: the curler plus both cordless straighteners.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between mermaid waves and beach waves?
Mermaid waves are glossy and connected; beach waves are matte and undone.
Can I get mermaid waves on medium hair?
Yes — they're most dramatic on long hair but work from shoulder length.
How do I keep mermaid waves glossy?
Smoothing prep, serum after styling, and minimal touching.
Try it with cordless tools
Cordless, USB-rechargeable curler and straighteners — style anywhere, no socket needed.
Shop all styling tools →See the bundles →Keep reading
Safety note: heat tools get hot. Always follow the operating and safety instructions supplied with your device, use on dry hair only, keep heated parts away from skin and scalp, switch off after use and store out of reach of children.
