If you’re considering a major change to your hairstyle or looking for ways to achieve that perfect look, a full sew-in weave might just be the answer. Full sew-ins are an adaptable and fashionable option for those who want to alter their appearance without affecting the health of their natural hair. In this all-inclusive guide, we will delve into every aspect surrounding full sew-in weaves; including what a full sew-in weave is, its benefits, the procedure involved as well as how to take care of one.
What Is a Full Sew-In Weave?
A full sew-in weave is also referred to as full head weaves or fully sewn-in weaves. This is a common method of extension where natural hair is braided into cornrows, and extensions are sewn onto the braids using a needle and thread. The difference is that they do not leave out some areas of your real tresses like other kinds of sewed-in hair extensions. A complete transformation is achieved by this method; hence one can experiment with various hair styles ranging from short bob cut wigs to long weaves made out of curly Afro styled locks, while at the same time keeping their original manes safe underneath.
The Benefits of a Full Sew-In Weave
1. Flexibility
One of the major benefits of a complete sew-in is its flexibility. You can go for several textures, colors and lengths that suit what you want. You could opt for straight hair, wavy, curly or any combination of those textures with this type of hairstyle; it is thus possible to personalize your choice according to your tastes.
2. Protection for Natural Hair
Full sew-ins effectively protect natural hair strands which would be prone to adverse effects such as heat, pollution and much manipulation. By tucking away the original tresses into braids, the risks associated with heat or external factors damaging them are reduced. The advantage that comes with this approach is promoting hair growth as well as maintaining good health.
3. Long Lasting Style
Full sew-ins last around 6 – 8 weeks depending on how they are taken care of by their wearers. This means that people can enjoy a new look without visiting a beauty shop regularly.
4. Low Maintenance
After installation, full sew-ins need little maintenance unlike other hairstyles. In addition, there wouldn’t be a need for daily styling or taking care of natural hair which makes it a more appropriate choice for busy individuals.
5. Volume and Length Enhancer
If you want to make your hair thicker or longer then one should consider getting the full sew-in done. Extensions can be tailored so that fullness and length desired are attained at once, leading to an amazing transformation in appearance.
The Full Sew-In Weave Process
1. Consultation
A consultation is a must before you go for a full sew-in. It is during this time that you are supposed to talk about how you want your hair to look, the kind of extensions you want and any other things that bother your mind. At the same time, it enables them to inspect the condition of your hair in case you decide on having a complete sew-in.
2. Preparation
To have clean and healthy hair before the installation of weaves, one should first wash and condition their strands. In order to prepare for this process, your stylist will braid your hair into tight cornrows.
3. Installation
Once your natural hair has been braided, your stylist begins attaching the extensions onto it by sewing them onto the braids using needle and thread as well as attaching wefts of hair to its base with consistent patterns for them to lie flat and blend in with real strands.
4. Blending and Styling
After securing all the extensions in place, he or she would then cut and blend them together with the natural hair so as to match in length and texture with each other apart from doing any other thing they may wish like relaxing, curling or adding more layers.
5. Maintenance
To maintain a good look on full sew-ins, maintenance plays an important role that includes frequent washing of the scalp, taking care of moisture levels among others.
How to Care for Your Full Sew-In Weave
1. Keep The Scalp Clean
Your natural hair must be kept entirely tucked away but maintaining a clean scalp prevents buildup and irritation. A sulfate-free shampoo for cleansing the scalp along with a lightweight conditioner will assist in moisture retention.
2. Moisturize Regularly
Both your natural hair and the extensions need moisture to stay healthy. Use a leave-in conditioner or light oils to avoid dry hair that leads to breakage.
3. Avoid Excessive Heat
Heat damages both original hair and added strands, so limit the application of styling instruments that use heat as well as always making sure there is a heat protectant when styling.
4. Sleep on A Silk Or Satin Pillowcase
Wearing silk or satin cases give advantage of reducing friction therefore reducing tangles and cuts on our locks as such these types of fabrics help keep extensions smooth and shiny.
5. Regular Maintenance Appointments
You should book regular check-ups with your stylist in order to maintain the quality of your sew-in style where possible readjustments, tightening or repairs can be done by them.
Choosing the Right Full Sew-In Weave for You
Regardless if you are putting in full sew-ins for the first time or have done it for years, all these are good considerations in order not to end up making the wrong choices with your hair.
1. Hair Type and Texture
For seamless blending select a weave that is similar to your own hair type and texture. There are different types of textures of extensions which include straight, wavy and curly therefore you should go with one that will go well with what you have, naturally enabling it to blend well.
2. Length and Volume
It is important to identify how long you want your hair to be or how voluminous it should appear. Considering various lengths and volumes is part of what makes full sew-ins so captivating hence identify what you want before selecting their respective extensions.
3. Quality of Hair
For the most natural look and durability, go for high-quality hair extensions. Remy hair is popularly chosen because it maintains its cuticle direction, leading to a much smoother and more realistic appearance while, on the other hand, non-Remy hair usually ends up looking rough and dull.
4. Color Matching
It’s vital to make sure that extensions’ shade matches those of your normal tresses or complements what you desire in general terms. A majority of brands have different colors as appreciated by many customers who are after finding something close to their original hair whose aim is buying a near perfect match like a meant-for-you kind of match.
5. Stylist Expertise
Hire someone who is used to doing full sew-ins because they will do it correctly without causing too much pain hence making your weave last longer than when going through an amateur person.
Common Myths About Full Sew-In Weaves
1. Sew-ins are harmful to natural hair
It’s a widespread misconception. In fact, when done correctly, full sew-ins protect your natural hair from high temperatures and other environmental factors.
2. Sew-ins do feel uncomfortable at first
Since they hold tight on the scalp, which may be unbearable to some people. However, a properly placed sew-in should not hurt at all. The pain could be as a result of braiding and fixing that is too tight; thus, please see your stylist if you experience more than just mild pain.
3. You can’t exercise while wearing sew-ins
To some people it sounds impossible. Truth is, several individuals have managed active lives with full sew-ins. Nevertheless, clean or dry out the scalp after sweating, in order to avoid build up and odor.
4. Sew-ins require much maintenance
On the other hand, sew-ins for long hair are easier than any other hairstyle. Normally for well kept full sew-ins, regular washing and conditioning is enough to keep them looking fresh and new whenever possible.
Alternatives to Full Sew-In Weaves
If you don’t think that full sew-in weave is right for you, there are some alternatives:
1. Partial Sew-In
A partial sew-in leaves some of your natural hair out so that it blends more with the extensions and looks more natural. This option works best if you want to add volume or length while still keeping a portion of your natural hair visible.
2. Clip-In Extensions
Clip-ins are temporary extensions which means they can be fixed or removed easily at home. They also provide flexibility and are great for those who desire change, but do not want to commit fully by using full sew-in weaves.
3. Tape-In Extensions
Another popular extension method is tape-ins where adhesive strips are applied onto the natural hairs. This method provides an alternative that is less bulky and discrete than sew-ins.
4. Microlink Extensions
Microlinks involve securing the extensions on small beads attached to your own hair strands. This technique is less harmful than traditional sewn in weaves and allows for easy adjustments to be made on them.
Conclusion
For a person who is thinking of changing their hairstyle and still wants to protect their hair, a full sew-in weave can be an excellent choice. A full sew-in can give you the hair of your dreams because this hairstyle is versatile, has long-lasting effects, and can also increase volume and length. A beautiful and healthy full sew-in weave that fits your style and boosts confidence can be achieved by following appropriate care and maintenance.
As a beginner or an experienced person with sew-ins, understanding the process and advantages will help you in making decisions and ensure that you take advantage of your new hairstyle. So just go ahead; dive into the world of full sew.
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