Grow Your Hair with Sew In Extensions
How To Grow Your Hair With Sew In Extensions
How to Take Care of Sew In Hair Extensions
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Sew-in extensions are a great protective style to aide in hair growth when installed and maintained properly.
A protective style is a hairstyle that protects the natural hair from damage caused by daily manipulation and exposure to harsh elements.
A sew-in hairstyle involves braiding the natural hair and sewing in extensions to the braids. The braids protect the natural hair from breakage and damage caused by styling, heat, and chemical treatments.
However, if the sew-in is too tight or left in for too long, it can cause damage. It's important to make sure that the braids are not causing tension and the extensions are not too heavy.
In this guide, we will discuss how you can grow your hair with sew in extensions and maintain healthy locks throughout the process.
What is a sew in extension?
A sew in extension, also known as a weave, is a type of hair extension that is attached to your natural hair by sewing it onto braided tracks. These extensions offer temporary length and volume to your natural hair and can be easily removed when needed.
There are various types of sew in extensions available, including human hair and synthetic options. Human hair extensions are made from real human hair and provide a more natural look and feel, while synthetic extensions are made from man-made fibers but tend to be more affordable.
Sew in extensions come in different lengths, colors, and textures, making it easier for you to find the perfect match for your natural hair. They can last up to 8-12 weeks with proper maintenance before needing to be removed and reinstalled.
How are sew in extensions installed?
Sew in extensions are installed by creating cornrows, also known as braids, on your natural hair. The number and size of the cornrows depend on the amount of hair you want to add and the type of extension you're using.
After creating the cornrows, the wefts of hair are then sewn onto them using a needle and thread. This process is repeated until all of the desired extensions are attached. The installation process can take anywhere from 3-5 hours, depending on the amount of hair being added and your stylist's expertise.
It is essential to have sew in extensions installed by a professional to ensure they are applied correctly and do not cause damage to your natural hair. Improper installation can lead to tension on your scalp and hair, which can result in breakage or thinning of your natural hair.
Can sew in extensions damage your hair?
When installed and maintained correctly, sew in extensions should not cause damage to your natural hair. However, if not done properly, they can lead to breakage and thinning of your hair.
It is crucial to follow the recommended guidelines for wearing sew in extensions, such as avoiding tight hairstyles and ensuring proper maintenance. Your scalp also needs to be cleansed regularly to prevent buildup and potential damage to your natural hair.
Additionally, it is essential to give your natural hair a break from sew in extensions by removing them after the recommended time frame and allowing your hair to rest before reinstalling them. This will help prevent any potential damage caused by continuous wear.
Plus, using high-quality extensions and having them installed by a professional can also minimize the risk of damage to your natural hair. By following these precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of sew in extensions while maintaining healthy hair growth.
Can sew in extensions promote hair growth?
Sew in extensions can promote hair growth by providing a protective style for your natural hair. They protect your hair from daily manipulation, heat styling, and environmental factors such as sun exposure and harsh weather.
By minimizing the damage to your natural hair, sew in extensions create a healthy environment for new hair growth. Also, with the added length and volume, you may be less likely to use heat tools or overstyle your natural hair, giving it time to grow without being constantly manipulated.
Additionally, if you have thin or fine hair that tends to break easily, sew in extensions can help add extra protection to prevent breakage. This allows your natural hair to grow longer without breaking off at the ends.
Remember that hair growth is a gradual process and requires patience. Therefore, while sew in extensions can promote hair growth, it is essential to maintain healthy habits and take care of your natural hair to see the best results. With proper installation and maintenance, you can achieve long, healthy hair with the help of sew in extensions.
Why sew in extensions for Curly hair is a game changer?
Sew in extensions are a game-changer for curly hair because they provide added length and volume while maintaining the natural texture of your hair. Unlike other hair extension methods, sew in extensions do not require heat or adhesives, which can alter the curl pattern of your natural hair.
Sew in extensions also allow for more versatility with curly hairstyles. You can opt for different types of curls or even straighten your extensions if desired without causing permanent damage to your natural curls.
As mentioned earlier, sew in extensions also protect your natural hair from daily manipulation and styling, which is crucial for maintaining healthy curls. They also help prevent tangling and shedding, which are common issues that those with curly hair face.
Moreover, sew in extensions can also help blend different curl patterns for a more cohesive and natural look. This is especially beneficial if you have multiple textures in your hair or are transitioning from chemically straightened hair to natural curls.
Sew in extensions hair care regimen
Proper maintenance and care of your sew in extensions are essential to keep them looking and feeling their best while also maintaining the health of your natural hair. Here are a few tips for caring for sew in extensions:
Washing your hair once a week
Keeping the scalp clean and moisturized by washing and conditioning regularly, and using a gentle shampoo and conditioner. I recommend using the Volume Shampoo while wearing a sew-in to give your natural hair a gentle detox shampoo while it is braided up to remove sweat and buildup.
Never forgetting to moisturize
Always keep your natural hair moisturized. Deep conditioning the natural hair that is left out for blending will keep the hair strong and moisturized while styling. The Deep Repair Treatment penetrates the hair with keratin protein for stronger strands, while infusing hydration for long lasting moisture.
Avoiding heat
Avoid using heat styling tools which can dry out and damage the hair. Fortunately, there are hair extensions now that can match even the curliest of textures. This makes blending the natural hair with the extensions much easier as to avoid using a lot of heat. When using heat be sure to use a protectant like the Amethyst Oil to prevent heat damage while blending.
Not wearing it for too long
I don’t recommend wearing a sew-in longer than 8-12 weeks. If left in any longer, the natural hair will begin to mat underneath the extensions. Shed hair that is not properly detangled can lock into the natural hair, making removal difficult.
How often should you get sew in extensions maintenance?
Sew in extensions require regular maintenance to keep them looking flawless and ensure the health of your natural hair. It is recommended to have a maintenance appointment every four to six weeks, depending on how fast your hair grows and the condition of your extensions.
During these appointments, your stylist will remove any old or loose extensions and reapply them closer to the scalp. They may also trim any split ends or tangles from both your natural hair and extensions.
It is essential to follow this maintenance schedule as leaving sew in extensions in for too long can cause damage to your hair. As the extensions grow out, they can become heavy and pull on your natural hair, leading to breakage or bald patches.
Additionally, regular maintenance appointments allow your stylist to assess the health of your natural hair and recommend any necessary treatments or adjustments. They can also help blend in new growth with the extensions for a seamless look.
FAQs
Does everyone need to use the same products for sew in extensions?
No, not necessarily. It's always best to consult with your stylist for personalized product recommendations based on your hair type and the specific type of extensions you have.
Can I wash my sew in extensions as often as my natural hair?
It is recommended to wash sew in extensions every 1-2 weeks, depending on how oily or dirty they get. However, be sure to follow the instructions provided by your stylist and use gentle techniques when washing.
Is it okay to sleep with wet sew in extensions?
It is not recommended to sleep with wet sew in extensions as this can cause them to become tangled and matted. Allow them to air dry completely before going to bed or use a low heat setting on your blow dryer.
Can I remove sew in extensions by myself?
It is not recommended to remove sew in extensions by yourself as it can cause damage to your natural hair and the extensions. Always have a professional stylist remove them for you to ensure they are done safely and correctly.
Conclusion
Maintaining sew in extensions is essential for both the appearance and health of your hair. By using the right products, following a regular maintenance schedule, and practicing proper care techniques, you can keep your extensions looking beautiful and protect your natural hair from damage.
Remember to consult with your stylist for personalized recommendations and always prioritize the health of your natural hair first. With these tips in mind, you can rock your sew in extensions with confidence and style! So, keep these tips in mind and enjoy your beautiful sew-in extensions!
Happy styling!