Root Lift Waves Tutorial | ghd rise™

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How to Create a Side-Parted Bob with Root Lift Waves

Learn how to create voluminous hair that moves with confidence and has a presence. This bouncy bob uses waves built from scalp to tip to give the hair volume and effortless lift. Our guide shows you how to achieve root lift and body using simple styling techniques and volumising hair products. Keep reading to learn how to add hair volume that whispers wealth, exuding old-money charm that can’t be scrolled past.

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GHD THE COMB OUT - DETANGLING COMB

£11.50

NEW GHD CURLS GONE WILD - CURL TEXTURIZING SPRAY

£35.00

GHD PICK ME UP - ROOT LIFT SPRAY

£18.95

GHD THE SECTIONER - TAIL COMB

£11.50

GHD RISE™ HOT BRUSH

£179.00

GHD THE COMB OUT - DETANGLING COMB

£11.50

NEW GHD CURLS GONE WILD - CURL TEXTURIZING SPRAY

£35.00

GHD PICK ME UP - ROOT LIFT SPRAY

£18.95

GHD THE SECTIONER - TAIL COMB

£11.50

GHD RISE™ HOT BRUSH

£179.00

STEP-BY-STEPS

STEP 1:

Prep and Heat Protection

Start with dry hair that’s smooth, not completely straight – blow-dry smooth if it isn’t already. Apply a heat protection spray, ghd Pick Me Up, evenly through the hair to shield from heat damage while supporting engineered volume.

STEP 2:

SECTION THE HAIR

Use a tail-comb to divide the hair, starting with the front section on one side. Use the end of the comb, not the bristles, for precision parting. Clean sectioning ensures waves remain consistent and controlled throughout.

STEP 3:

CREATE THE ROOT-LIFT WAVES

Take a small section at the front and glide ghd Rise underneath, rotating gently as you go. The goal is a wave where the first three-quarters lift outward for volume and the ends curl in slightly, forming a C-into-S shape.

STEP 4:

CONTINUE CURLING THROUGH THE HEAD

Repeat across the rest of the hair, respecting the side parting, so that the waves frame the face beautifully without collapsing at the roots.

STEP 5:

TEXTURISE AND SOFTEN

Lightly mist with a texturising spray for definition and hold. Use a wide-tooth detangling comb or your fingers to gently shape the waves, keeping volume at the roots and softness at the ends.

STEP 6:

REFINE AND FINISH

Check the shape and adjust individual pieces if needed. The bouncy bob should read full-bodied, polished and controlled – maintaining both movement and structure.

STEP 7:

FINAL LOOK

Top Tips to Refine the Finish

Always curl away from the face at the front for a flattering shape.
Work in small sections to maintain control and consistent volume.
Keep products light – the look should move naturally, not feel stiff.
For extra volume and curl, pin each section after curling and let it cool before releasing.

Who This Style Works Best for

This hairstyle suits shoulder-length cuts with a strong outline, where volume needs to be lifted at the root without disrupting the shape. The side part adds polish and presence, making it particularly effective for bobs that are worn sleek, but benefit from controlled movement. This is a look for hair that’s meant to hold its own – confident and quietly expressive.

Common Styling Questions Answered by our Expert Grant Williams

Can root lift be recreated at home without a blow-dryer?

Yes. This look is shaped entirely with a hot brush on dry hair. The technique focuses on root lift and controlled movement rather than traditional blow-drying, making it accessible while still delivering a polished, editorial finish.

How do I keep voluminous hair at the roots without overworking the ends for a bouncy bob?

Work the hot brush close to the scalp first, then glide through the mid-lengths with minimal rotation. The lift is built at the root; the ends are shaped lightly. This keeps the movement soft and prevents the finish from looking overstyled.