Body Wave vs Deep Wave vs Water Wave Wigs: Which Curl Pattern Is Right for You?
Wig listings use names like body wave, deep wave, water wave and kinky curly, and the photos can look similar. Choosing the wrong one can mean a wig that needs more care than you expected or does not match the look you wanted. This guide compares body wave vs deep wave vs water wave and other popular textures in plain words.
The main wig textures compared
| Texture | What it looks like | Care needed | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Straight | Smooth and sleek | Low | Sleek, polished looks |
| Body wave | Large, loose S-shaped waves | Low | A soft, everyday look and first-time wearers |
| Loose deep wave | Medium waves, between body wave and deep wave | Medium | More volume without tight curls |
| Deep wave | Defined, tighter curls | Medium to high | Full, bouncy curly styles |
| Water wave | Small, wet-look ripples | Medium to high | A natural, beachy curl |
| Jerry curl and kinky curly | Tight, springy coils | High | Textured, natural-looking volume |
Which one should you choose?
- You want easy, everyday hair: choose body wave. It is forgiving, and the waves are easy to refresh.
- You want volume but not tight curls: choose loose deep wave.
- You love defined curls: choose deep wave or water wave, and plan time for moisture and detangling.
- You want a natural, textured look: choose jerry curl or kinky curly.
Length looks different on curly hair
Wig length is measured with the hair pulled straight. The tighter the curl, the shorter the wig will look when worn. A 20-inch deep wave wig will sit noticeably shorter than a 20-inch body wave wig.
How to care for wavy and curly wigs
- Detangle gently with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb, working from the ends up.
- Do not brush tight curls when dry, as it causes frizz.
- Wash only when needed, with a gentle shampoo and conditioner, and keep the hair pointing down.
- Use a light leave-in conditioner or curl cream to refresh the curls.
- Let the wig air dry on a stand, away from direct heat.
- Store it on a wig stand or in a satin bag.
Shop by texture
Body wave
- Body Wave Lace Front Wig – 13x4 Human Hair
- Body Wave Lace Front Wig – Real Human Hair, Medium Long
- 360 Lace Body Wave Wig
Deep wave and water wave
- Loose Deep Wave Lace Front Wig – 13x4 Remy Human Hair
- Deep Wave Human Hair Wig – 13x4 Half Lace Front
- Deep Wave Frontal Wig – Water Wave Human Hair
- Deep Water Wave Lace Frontal Wig – Short Bob
Curly and kinky curly
- Kinky Curly Lace Front Wig – Brazilian Human Hair
- Jerry Curly Headband Wig – Human Hair
- Burmese Curly Human Hair Wig – Long
Browse every texture in our wigs collection.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between body wave and deep wave?
Body wave has large, loose waves. Deep wave has smaller, more defined curls that give more volume but need more moisture and gentle detangling.
Which wig texture is easiest to care for?
Straight and body wave need the least care. Tighter curls need more moisture and gentler handling.
Can I straighten a wavy human hair wig?
Human hair wigs can usually be heat styled. Use a heat protectant and a moderate temperature. The wave may not return fully on its own after straightening.
Why does my curly wig look shorter than the length I ordered?
Length is measured straight. Curls shrink when they spring up, so the wig looks shorter when worn.
Not sure which lace to choose? Read how to choose a lace front wig.