Weaves- for the woman’s glory
Weaving your hair is an easy way to change your appearance. But before you do so, consider the following;
Choice of weave
What is your lifestyle? They come in both synthetic (mostly for braided or twisted styles) and natural or human hair (better for free flowing styles). Synthetic weaves are easily detected fake and do not provide a natural look. Moreover, they may damage or irritate your natural hair.
How to
After picking a hair type and application method, decide how you want the weave attached to your own hair. Weaves can be attached to your hair in three main ways: braiding, bonding and fusion.
Braiding
Your natural hair is braided along your scalp in tiny horizontal cornrows, which should not be noticeable. The weave chosen is then sewn onto the braids with heavy weaving thread and your own hair is combed over the extensions so that they blend in. This method does not use any chemical or heating processes. However, if the braids are too tight, or if the extensions are too heavy, there is a high risk of pulling out one’s own hair. It is advisable to apply oil to the areas of the scalp around the braids to prevent breakage and premature balding.
Bonding
Here, the hair is first divided into small sections and a bonding glue adhesive is used to attach the weave to the natural hair near the scalp. This method can be tricky, and may cause damage to your hair especially when it is removed. Some people may also have allergic reactions to the bonding solution. It is therefore advisable to test the adhesive on a small patch of skin before having it applied to your entire head. Return to your stylist to have the weave removed by a professional, to avoid pulling out your natural hair in the process.
Fusion weave
In this method, your natural hair is divided into small sections and then the extensions are attached to the natural hair using hot wax. This type of weave is more expensive compared to other weaves attached using other methods. There are no weave tracks to hide, so the hair appears to be growing from the scalp and it appears full
Care
After your weave is completed, care for it as you would your own hair. When done by a professional, the average hair weave lasts about two months. While length can be beautiful, long, heavy extensions put additional pressure on the scalp. This can pull the hair out, and may cause long-term damage in the form of thinning and pre-mature balding. Your weave is especially prone to becoming brittle and dry because it is attached to the scalp and therefore doesn’t receive any of the body’s naturally nourishing oils. Wash and condition your natural hair regularly to prevent it from dryness and being brittle. When you remove your weave and you find that your natural hair is in need of repair, give it at least a six month rest from the weaves and see your dermatologist.
Wrap up
Weaves provide a way for you to experiment with new styles and current hair trends in a unique way. Visit a professional before you have extensions applied. Do not forget to take care of your own hair.
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