In 2025, two major hair trends are taking over the beauty scene: Glass Hair and Mermaid Waves. These styles are dominating social media, red carpets, and fashion runways, offering two very different but equally stunning aesthetics. Whether you prefer the sleek, ultra-glossy perfection of glass hair or the soft, romantic allure of mermaid waves, there’s a style for everyone.
What Is Glass Hair?
Glass hair is a sleek, ultra-smooth, and high-shine hairstyle that looks as if it’s made of glass. This trend is all about precision cuts, straightened strands, and intense shine, giving the hair a polished and flawless look. Originally popularized by Korean beauty trends, glass hair has made a huge comeback, with celebrities and influencers sporting this ultra-glamorous style.
Key Features of Glass Hair
- Super sleek and straight
- Mirror-like shine
- Frizz-free and smooth texture
- Sharp, precise edges
How to Achieve Glass Hair
Achieving glass hair requires a combination of heat styling, proper hair care, and shine-enhancing products. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Start With a Precision Haircut
A sharp, blunt cut enhances the glass-like effect. Consider a bob, lob, or long straight layers to get that perfect base.
Step 2: Wash With a Smoothing Shampoo & Conditioner
Use a hydrating and smoothing shampoo and conditioner to eliminate frizz and add shine. Look for ingredients like keratin, argan oil, and silk proteins.
Step 3: Apply a Heat Protectant
Before using any heat styling tools, apply a high-quality heat protectant to prevent damage and maintain sleekness.
Step 4: Blow Dry With a Round Brush
Blow-dry your hair using a round brush, directing airflow downward to keep cuticles flat and enhance smoothness.
Step 5: Flat Iron for a Sleek Finish
Use a high-quality ceramic or titanium flat iron to straighten your hair in small sections. This ensures a pin-straight, polished look.
Step 6: Apply a Shine Serum or Hair Gloss
Finish with a shine-enhancing serum or hair gloss spray to create that signature glass-like reflection.
Best Products for Glass Hair
- Oribe Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo – Hydrates and smooths
- Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil – Adds natural shine
- GHD Platinum+ Styler – High-performance flat iron
- Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray – Anti-frizz and glass-like shine
What Are Mermaid Waves?
On the opposite end of the hair spectrum, we have Mermaid Waves—a soft, romantic, and effortlessly voluminous hairstyle inspired by beachy textures. This look features loose, flowing waves that resemble the natural waves of ocean water, often paired with a little texture and movement. It’s the go-to style for those who love a carefree, bohemian, or ethereal look.
Key Features of Mermaid Waves
- Soft, flowing waves
- Voluminous and textured
- Natural and effortless look
- Works on short and long hair
How to Achieve Mermaid Waves
Creating mermaid waves can be done with heat styling or heatless techniques. Here’s how you can get the look:
Step 1: Start With a Nourishing Haircare Routine
Hydration is key for soft, bouncy waves. Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to keep hair healthy and frizz-free.
Step 2: Apply a Texturizing or Wave-Enhancing Spray
A sea salt spray, mousse, or wave-enhancing product helps create that tousled effect.
Step 3: Use a Curling Wand or Flat Iron
For defined waves, use a large-barrel curling iron or flat iron to create loose bends. Twist sections of hair away from the face for a natural look.
Step 4: Try a Heatless Method (Optional)
For a no-heat approach, braid damp hair before bed and unravel in the morning for natural-looking mermaid waves.
Step 5: Finish With a Lightweight Hair Oil or Spray
Seal the look with a lightweight finishing oil or texture spray to maintain volume and movement.
Best Products for Mermaid Waves
- Ouai Wave Spray – Defines and enhances waves
- Moroccanoil Treatment Light – Adds hydration without weighing hair down
- T3 SinglePass Curling Iron – Creates perfect beachy waves
- Bumble and Bumble Surf Infusion Spray – Adds a natural, lived-in texture
Glass Hair vs. Mermaid Waves: Which One Suits You Best?
Face Shape Considerations
- Glass Hair: Best for oval, heart, and diamond-shaped faces as it enhances sharp features.
- Mermaid Waves: Flattering on round, square, and long faces as the volume adds balance and softness.
Hair Type Compatibility
- Glass Hair: Works best on straight or slightly wavy hair. Those with curly hair may need extra effort to achieve this look.
- Mermaid Waves: Ideal for wavy and curly hair types, but straight hair can also achieve this look with proper styling.
Occasions and Styling Preferences
- Glass Hair: Perfect for formal events, office looks, and high-fashion aesthetics.
- Mermaid Waves: Great for casual outings, vacations, and bohemian-inspired styles.
Expert Styling & Maintenance Tips
For Glass Hair
- Avoid heavy oils that can make hair greasy.
- Use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and maintain smoothness.
- Refresh with a dry shampoo to keep hair sleek without washing frequently.
For Mermaid Waves
- Use a flexible-hold hairspray to keep waves in place without stiffness.
- Sleep in a loose braid to maintain waves overnight.
- Avoid brushing waves too much to prevent frizz.