Always wash your hands before giving your patron any salon service. Make sure all necessary implements have been sanitized and towels and other supplies are clean and fresh. Prepare the patron in the same manner as you would for a shampoo. Shampoo the patron's hair at the shampoo bowl, towel blot the hair, and seat the patron comfortably before a dresserette. Better soft natural waves are obtained with hair that has a natural wave or has been permanently waved than with straight hair. A finger wave correctly done complements the patron's head as well as her individual features.

Waving lotion makes the hair pliable and keeps it in place during the finger waving procedure. The proper choice of waving lotion is governed by the texture and condition of the patron's hair. A good waving lotion is harmless to the hair and does not flake on drying.

Part the hair down to the scalp, comb smooth, and arrange it to conform to the planned style. The hair will move much easier if you use the coarse teeth of the comb. Follow the natural growth pattern when combing and parting the hair. You will find the hair easier to mould, and it will not buckle or separate in the crown area. Waving lotion is applied to the hair while it is damp. This permits the lotion to be distributed smoothly and evenly. Use an applicator to apply the waving lotion and a comb to distribute it through the hair. Avoid the use of an excessive amount of waving lotion.

Note—Apply lotion to one side of the head at a time; this prevents it from drying and requiring an additional application.

To locate the natural hair growth, comb the hair away from the face, and push hair forward with the palm of your hand. The finger wave may be started on either side of the head. However, in this presentation, the hair is parted on the left side of the head and the wave is started on the right (heavy) side of the head.