The most important part of having a great hair experience is starting with great hair (read up on great hair ), the second most import part is the weave installation. Installation can make or break your overall hair appearance. Even if you have great hair, but have a bad install, you run the risk of looking like you are wearing bad hair. To avoid this, we have put together a list of four installation methods that will help inform you on the best method for your next weave.

1. Sew-in

 

This is the most common type of installation methods, however many stylist get this one wrong.  A good sew-in is mainly due to the cornrow pattern.  This is very important, because if your cornrows are too close together, not only will the weave look lumpy, but you will not have access to your scalp when you need to clean and moisturise it. If your cornrows are too far apart, you run the risk of seeing your scalp or tracks should the wind blow or you run your finger through your weave.  So, if you don’t want the insecurities that come with this, get a good stylist for the get go.  The good thing about a sew-in is that your hair will be well protected while you wear your weave, and have direct access to your scalp. Sew-ins can also be worn by any one regardless of your (natural) hair density. This means if you have thick or very thin hair a traditional sew-in will work.

In general you should let down your sew-in every 6-8 weeks, however if your natural hair grows really fast, you might have to reinstall your weave much sooner, which can be admin.

2. Quick Glue Weave

 

This is the cheapest method and it can be done at home. It can look natural when done correctly and can be styled in different ways. The major disadvantages about this method is that quick weaves are a short term styles and can only be worn for about 3-4weeks.  Because the weave is glued or moulded to your hair (by means of a stocking cap) you cannot wash your hair freely while wearing one. Washing it can cause black goo-balls to form in your hair, which are a pain to get out. Some human hair types like Brazilian hair need a bit more moisture than other hair types, but when you wear a quick weave you cannot use products to moisturise the hair, because the products break down the glue and can cause the tracks to slide. A quick weave is easy to put on, but takes patients and expertise to remove.  It must be removed with care, because a rough stylist can rip out your hair and cause permeant damage to your edges.

3. Micro-link Fusion

 

This is the most expensive installation method, because the extension are attached individually to your hair. Both fusion and micro bead take 6-8 hours to install, but can lasts as long as 6 months with proper maintenance, making this type of application the most durable.

Heat is required for hot fusion or keratin bond application, which can be tough on the stylist’s hands and can potentially to damage a client’s hair. Unlike a weave, hot fusion or keratin bonds cannot be reused, however some companies can send the hair back to manufacturers who then reapply the glue. Application requires special tool used for clamping, which means you cannot do a DIY job with these extensions. Fusion or micro-links are best suited for people with coarse or thick hair. Like most extension these can fall out when you have thin hair or when not installed correctly.

With Cold Fusion, Micro-Links or I-tip, small pieces of your natural hair is pulled through a small bead or lock and clamped shut with a special tool.  Reputable companies use copper cylinders lined with silicone to protect your natural hair. Like hot fusion or keratin bonds the hair moves more naturally, because the extensions are attached by individual strands. The application needs no heat or glue and can last up to six months. Hair is reusable and any extensions that may have slid down or off can be fixed in about an hour by an experienced technician.

Beads or locks can be visible if not placed appropriately and will slip more easily than any other method. This installation method is not suitable for thin or fine hair as the bonds can be visible through the hair.

3. Clip In Extensions

 

This is the most suitable for special occasions or events because they are able to increase your hair volume and length without committing to anything long term. With clip ins you have the freedom of being able to remove them before you go to sleep. The cost of clip in extensions depends on the type of hair as well as the brand. Installations can be done at home which is great, however clip in hair extensions cannot be worn for long periods of time. Clip ins are not ideal for thin, fine hair as clips and base could be too bulky or heavy for the hair wearer. Unless used with proper care and maintenance, hair only lasts for a few months. The extensions can fall out if not installed correctly, so be aware of that.

All these types of installation methods can be achieved with any type of hair (Brazilian, Peruvian, Malaysian, Cambodian, Mongolian etc), just make sure you understand which installation will work best for your hair destiny (fine to coarse). If you are not sure, rather seek professional help after deciding on the hair you want.

Happy weaving