What Products Work Best for Achieving Soft Waves in the Ripped Bob? (2025)

The ripped bob is everywhere right now — and for good reason. This edgy, piecey haircut has quickly become one of the biggest hair trends of the year. Its sharp ends and carefree shape make it ideal for creating soft, lived-in waves that feel modern and effortless. But achieving that soft wave look doesn’t happen by accident — it’s all about choosing the right products.

Here are the best products to help you create soft waves in the ripped bob and maintain its chic, natural movement:

Sea Salt Spray for Texture and Movement

Soft waves start with a great sea salt or texturizing spray. These sprays add just enough grit and hold, allowing the hair to move naturally while enhancing its wave pattern. The best formulas balance salt with hydrating ingredients, so ends stay piecey — not parched.

Try: Oribe Apres Beach Wave and Shine Spray or Bumble and bumble Surf Spray.

Air-Dry Cream for Frizz-Free Finish

For low-maintenance mornings, an air-dry cream is a must. These creamy formulas moisturize, define, and reduce frizz as hair dries naturally, making them ideal for making the most of your natural wave.

Try: OUAI Wave Spray + Air Dry Foam or R+Co Cool Wind pH Perfect Air Dry Creme.

Heat Protectant Serum for Polished Waves

If you prefer to use a curling iron or wand, a heat protectant serum is an essential step. These products shield hair from damage and add luminous shine, making your ripped ends appear sharp and healthy.

Try: GHD Bodyguard Heat Protect Spray or Kerastase L’Incroyable Blowdry Lotion.

Wave Foam or Mousse for Defined Texture

For those with naturally straight or fine hair, a wave-enhancing foam can help create long-lasting texture. Its airy consistency delivers soft, touchable body and is ideal for achieving that undone wave.

Try: Moroccanoil Curl Control Mousse or Living Proof Full Thickening Mousse.

Flexible-Hold Hairspray for Movement That Lasts

To finish your look, mist a flexible-hold hairspray throughout the hair. The best sprays provide long-lasting hold while allowing movement — no stiff, helmet-like effect.

Try: Oribe Superfine Strong Hair Spray or Amika Fluxus Touchable Hairspray.

Final Tips for Perfect Ripped Bob Waves

• Apply wave sprays, creams, or mousses to damp hair for the best results.
  
• Scrunch as you dry to amplify natural wave patterns.
  
• Alternate wand sizes (1” and 1.25”) when curling for a more lived-in, tousled effect.
  
• Focus on the ends to highlight the sharp, choppy edges of a ripped bob.
  

Why the Right Products Matter

The ripped bob is defined by its sharp angles and textured ends, making the right products critical for achieving its signature style. The goal is soft, natural movement that feels intentionally undone. By selecting formulas that hydrate, protect, and define, you can create a long-lasting style that captures the beauty of the ripped bob every time.