If you’re spinning but still dealing with forks in your 360 waves, you’re not alone. Forks are one of the most frustrating parts of the wave journey—but they’re also a sign you’re making progress. In this post, we’ll break down what forks are, what causes them, and most importantly—how to fix them for good.
What Are Forks in 360 Waves?
A “fork” is when your wave pattern splits off or overlaps in an awkward way, creating a swirl or break in the wave connection. Think of it like a traffic jam in your pattern. Your waves want to flow in one direction, but a fork disrupts that flow, usually due to inconsistent brushing or growth patterns.
Suggested Image: Side-by-side photos showing a wave pattern with a visible fork and the same pattern after correction.
What Causes Forks in Your Wave Pattern?
1. Improper Brushing Technique
Brushing in slightly different angles or directions each session can confuse your pattern, leading to forks.
2. Inconsistent Brushing
Missing sessions or brushing too little allows your pattern to “reset” or grow out unevenly.
3. Inconsistent Wolfing
Wolfing helps deepen your pattern, but if you don’t brush properly while wolfing or cut too soon, forks can appear.
4. Improper Haircuts
Untrained barbers may cut against your pattern or unevenly—destroying progress and creating new forks.
How to Get Rid of Forks in Your 360 Waves
1. Master Your Brushing Angles
• Use a mirror to understand the exact angles your hair naturally grows.
• Stick to one brushing angle for each section (crown, sides, back).
• Record yourself brushing or take pictures to track angles.
Suggested Image: Diagram showing correct brushing angles for different head sections.
2. Brush More Intentionally
• Brush with purpose, not just out of habit.
• Spend extra time on the problem areas where forks form.
• Incorporate isolation brushing—focus only on one fork at a time for a few minutes each session.
3. Go on a Fork-Fix Wolfing Session
• Wolf for 6–8 weeks, allowing your hair to grow thick enough for proper manipulation.
• During this time, double down on brushing and moisturizing.
• Do not cut your hair until you’ve spent at least a few weeks brushing out the fork.
Suggested Image: Progress photos showing wave pattern improvement over a wolfing period.
4. Use a Crown Patch or Brush
• Your crown is the source of your entire wave pattern. If it’s not trained right, forks are guaranteed.
• Use a crown brush to swirl and define your pattern from the center out.
• Consider using a crown patch to compress and isolate crown growth overnight.
5. Apply Hot Towel Sessions
• A hot towel softens the hair and opens up the scalp.
• Do this before brushing for 10–15 minutes to make each stroke more effective.
• Bonus: It also helps break up stubborn forked areas.
6. Comb, Then Brush
• Combing against the grain (ATG) before brushing can lift curls and help realign forks.
• After combing, always follow with a long brush session and compression.
7. Use the Right Products
• A good moisturizer, pomade, or butter helps your hair lay down smoother during wolfing.
• Products to try:
• Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In
• WaveBuilder Pomade
• Moisturizing Curl Activators
How Long Does It Take to Fix Forks?
Fixing forks takes time and consistency. Depending on your dedication, it could take 1–3 wolfing cycles to fully correct them. The key is not giving up—every session trains your pattern further.
Bonus: How to Prevent Forks in the Future
• Stick to your angles like your life depends on it.
• Brush every day—even if it’s just for 10 minutes.
• Use a durag or wave cap every night without fail.
• Keep track of your pattern with photos or mirror sessions.
Video Tutorials for Visual Guidance
For a step-by-step visual guide on fixing forks in your 360 waves, check out the following video:
Final Thoughts
Forks can be annoying, but they’re also a sign that you’re in the game. Every waver goes through them—it’s how you respond that sets you apart. Stay patient, stay consistent, and stay brushing. Your crown will thank you.
Got a fork you just can’t fix? Drop a comment or photo below, and we’ll break down the best angle fix. Let’s get you waving like a king.