Sew in hair extensions have been a go-to choice for women looking for a protective, long-lasting, and natural-looking hairstyle. Whether you want to add length, volume, or experiment with different textures, sew in extensions offer versatility without damaging your natural hair. If you’re considering this classic hair enhancement method, here’s everything you need to know to achieve a flawless sew in look.
What Are Sew In Hair Extensions?
Sew in hair extensions involve braiding the natural hair into cornrows and sewing wefts of hair onto the braid using a needle and sew in. This method provide a secure and long-lasting solution for those looking to enhance their hair without the need for adhesives or tapes.
Why Choose Sew In Hair Extensions?
1. Protective Styling
One of the biggest benefits of sew-in extensions is that they protect your natural hair from daily manipulation, heat, and environmental stressors. By keeping your hair braided underneath, you can promote healthy growth while still enjoying a stylish look.
2. Long-Lasting Wear
Unlike clip ins or tape ins, sew in extensions can last up to 6-8 week with daily care. This makes them a great choice for those looking for a semi-permanent hair solution.
3. Versatile Styling
With sew in extensions, you can experiment with different textures, colors, and lengths without committing to permanent changes. You can make hairstyle them just like your natural hair—straighten, curl, or even dye them, depending on the hair type you choose.
4. Natural Look and Feel
When properly installed, sew ins provide a seamless and natural appearance. The wefts lay flat against the scalp, blending effortlessly with your hair for a flawless finish.
Types of Sew In Hair Extensions
1. Full Sew In
A full sew in means all of your natural hair is braided and covered with extensions. This style is ideal for those looking for complete hair transformation and ultimate protection for their natural hair.
2. Partial Sew In
A partial sew in allows some of your natural hair to be left out, usually at the crown or around the hairline, to blend with the extensions for a more natural look. This method is best for those who want flexibility in styling.
3. Lace Closure Sew In
A lace closure is used to create a natural-looking hairline and scalp effect. It’s a great option if you want to protect all of your natural hair while maintaining a realistic appearance.
4. Kinky Curly Lace Frontal Wig and Sew In
A kinky curly lace front wig covers the entire front portion of your hairline, allowing for more versatile parting and styling. This is a great choice if you like to wear your hair pulled back or parted in different ways.
Choosing the Right Hair for a Sew In
Selecting high-quality hair is crucial to get a flawless and long-lasting sew in. Here are some popular options:
1. Virgin Hair
Virgin hair is 100% human hair that has never been chemically processed. It offers the most natural look and longevity, making it the top choice for sew ins.
2. Remy Hair
Remy hair is human hair with intact cuticles, ensuring minimal tangling and a natural feel. It’s a great option for those who want high-quality hair at a slightly lower cost than virgin hair.
3. Synthetic Hair
While more affordable, synthetic hair doesn’t have the same natural look, feel, or longevity as human hair. It’s best for temporary styles or experimenting with bold colors.
How to Maintain Sew In Hair Extensions
1. Keep Your Scalp Clean
Washing your sew in regularly is essential to prevent buildup and keep your scalp healthy. Use a gentle shampoo and focus on wash the scalp rather than the extensions themselves.
2. Moisturize Your Natural Hair
Even though your natural hair is braided, it still needs moisture. Use a light leave-in conditioner or oil to your scalp to prevent dryness and breakage.
3. Wrap Your Hair at Night
To maintain the style and prevent frizz, wrap your hair with a silk or satinoft scarf before bed. You can also use a bonnet or silk pillowcover for added protection.
4. Avoid Excessive Heat
Less the use of heat styling tools to extend the lifespan of your sew-in. If you must use heat, Use a heat protectant to prevent damage.
5. Trim the Ends
Just like natural hair, sew in extensions benefit from occasional trims to prevent split ends and keep the style looking fresh.
When to Remove Sew In Extensions
While sew in extensions are long-lasting, it’s important not to keep them in for too long. Ideally, you should remove them after 6-8 weeks to prevent matting and breakage. If you notice excessive shedding, loosened braids, or tangling at the roots, it’s time to take them out and give your natural hair a break.
Final Thoughts
Sew in hair extensions are a fantastic way to achieve longer, fuller, and more versatile hairstyles while protecting your natural hair. Whether you choose a full sew in, a lace closure, or a partial sew in, this method offers durability, style, and a seamless finish. With the right hair type and proper maintenance, you can enjoy a gorgeous sew in that looks and feels like your own real hair. If you’re ready for a transformation, a sew-in might be the perfect choice!
