Hairstyle comparison
Compare the Long Waves and Undercut by length, shape, finish, maintenance, salon wording, and how each changes your overall outline.
Published 13 September 2026
The short version
The Long Waves is defined by long length shaped by loose, continuous bends, while the Undercut uses closely cut sides beneath a distinctly longer top section.
The Long Waves is rated medium maintenance here, compared with high for the Undercut.
| Feature | Long Waves | Undercut |
|---|---|---|
| Signature | long length shaped by loose, continuous bends | closely cut sides beneath a distinctly longer top section |
| Length | long | mixed |
| Shape | flowing and elongated | disconnected and top-focused |
| Finish | wavy | textured |
| Maintenance | medium | high |
Long Waves
You prefer a flowing and elongated outline with a wavy finish and the defining feature of long length shaped by loose, continuous bends.
Salon wording: Ask to preserve the overall length while adding enough long layering to stop the waves from forming one heavy block.
Undercut
You prefer a disconnected and top-focused outline with a textured finish and the defining feature of closely cut sides beneath a distinctly longer top section.
Salon wording: Specify how high the short section should sit, whether the transition should be disconnected or blended, and how the longer top will be worn.
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