Have you ever dreamt about long, extremely thick hair that swayed and bounced freely with every move you made? If yes, then most probably you have heard people talking about hair extensions as being such a great solution! One type of these extensions which has gained popularity is called the hair extension weft. But what really is a hair extension weft and how does it work to give one that beautiful and luxurious mane?
Let us get involved into this hair extensions world finding out all there is to know about this fabulous method of enhancing one’s hair. So whether you are already acquainted or just curious about them, read on!
What is a Hair Extension Weft?
First things first: What exactly is a hair extension weft? This refers to a pack of hair joined together in row from top to downwards. Methods used to attach this row to your natural hair results in instantaneous growth and density. In fact, it’s like a curtain made from tresses that is meant to be added on your own.
Unlike single strands that are glued onto each one, wefts rather come in sections which can either be hand-tied or machine-tied. As such these sections vary in their dimensions as per the length of the weft and desired fullness.
If you’re wondering, what is a weft in hair extensions, it’s simply a section of hair that comes as a continuous band rather than separate strands. The beauty of hair wefts is that they offer a more uniform look, giving your hair a seamless, natural appearance once applied.
Types of Hair Extension Wefts
Now that we know what a hair extension weft is, it’s time to explore the different types available. There are generally two types of weft hair extensions:
1. Hand-Tied Wefts
Hand-tied wefts are exactly that – light weight, thin and almost invisible strands of hair, tied by hand. These wefts are highly customizable to suit any head shape and size and ideal for fine or thinning hair as they lay flat against the scalp thus less visible.
Creating hand-tied wefts is delicate work and that is why they are more costly while offering a superior even lifelike appearance. If you want to have extensions which blend perfectly with your natural hair then hand-tied wefts would be an excellent choice!
2. Machine-Tied Wefts
Machine tied-wefts, on the other hand, are made by using machines to sew together the hair. They tend to be thicker than the other types but comparatively cheaper and can make one look more voluminous.
The best option for anyone wishing for an extreme makeover involving high amounts of volume and length are machine-tied wefts. They can also be cut short or customized based on personal preference.
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How Are Hair Extension Wefts Applied?
Now that you know more about weft hair extensions, how can they be attached to your real hair? Hair wefts can be applied through a variety of methods depending on one’s preferences, hair type and lifestyle. Below are some of the most common methods:
1. Sew-In or Beaded Wefts
Sewing the weft directly onto your own hair is one of the most common ways to put them on. To begin with, your stylist will braid tight small braids or add beads at the scalp. Then, the weft is sewn into these braids or connected with micro beads.
This method is quite common with those having thicker and coarser hair as it results in long lasting effects and much volume. A professional should perform a sew-in so that the weft is well placed and does not harm your natural hair.
2. Clip-In Wefts
Clip-ins are ideal for those who want a temporary change or do not want to go for a permanent extension. These wefts come with clips that can easily be attached at the roots of your own hair. You may put them on and off whenever you wish, making them perfect especially during special events or when simply looking to change appearance!
They can be installed by anyone without any assistance from an expert because they’re easy to use even if you’re a beginner. The beauty about clip-ins though is that they don’t damage your natural locks as long as you handle them properly.
3. Tape-In Wefts
Another great option for adding weft hair extensions is tape-in extensions. These wefts come with pre-taped sections that adhere to your natural hair. The process is fast and gives a smooth look that appears natural.
Tape-ins are ideal for individuals with fine to medium hair and can last for 6 to 8 weeks if taken care of properly. The adhesive used is durable but also soft on the strands, thus ensuring that it holds firmly without harming them.
4. Glue-In Wefts
Specialized glue is used while applying glue-in wefts which are also known as bonded wefts. Your stylist will add glue on the weft and fix it on your natural hair at the roots. Although this provides an excellent hold, not removing it properly can be damaging to your real hair.
For changing styles quickly, you may consider using glue-in wefts, but they are not recommended for long-term use because adhesive may cause serious harm.
Benefits of Weft Hair Extensions
Having looked at what weft hair extensions entail, let us now find out why they have become quite popular among individuals seeking longer and fuller locks. Some of the benefits of using wefts include:
1. Instant Length and Volume
Hair extension wefts enablesone to have increased lengths and volumes instantly; this is a perfect way for helping individuals seeking to improve their original hairstyles without having to wait for the natural hair growth process. Various options on how long these styles can go are available starting from a shoulder grazing trendy bob until a matching waist length sea goddess.
2. Versatility
Varied styles can be obtained from weft hair extensions because they are extremely flexible; one could curl, straighten or color them if desired. Thus, endless options are at your disposal when it comes to hairstyles without damaging your own.
3. Customization
Wefts can be modified, feathered, or chopped according to your preferred look. From mild enhancement to radical change; you can always find a pre-made, tape-in weft that suits your desire.
4. Long-Lasting
Extending quality would last for several weeks or even months when they are put on and maintained well. Therefore, this is an excellent option if you are looking for something that provides long-lasting effects with minimal need for touch-ups.
5. Natural Look
They will blend perfectly into the natural tresses when looked after properly. Hand-tied wefts have been noted in particular for their natural look, hence making them popular among women who want subtle extensions.
Caring for Your Weft Hair Extensions
If you want your weft hair extensions to look attractive and last long, do proper care for them. These are some tips for keeping your extensions:
- Washing carefully: Clean your extensions gently, as well as avoid products with sulfates since they might weaken bonds or adhesive.
- Brushing gently: Using a wide-tooth comb or special brushes for extensions will avoid both tangles and breakages.
- Avoiding heat damage: Excessive high temperatures damage both natural hair and extensions. Thus, always use a heat protectant spray before styling and limit the use of hot tools.
- Setting up touch-ups: Scheduling regular touch-ups is crucial if you have sew-in or tape-in wefts to maintain their neatness and protection.
Final Thoughts
So, what is a hair extension weft? It’s the trick to obtaining whatever type of hair you dream of! From temporary style enhancement to permanent transformation, wefts are extremely versatile enabling instant volume while simulating a natural look like no other.
Now that you understand what weft hair extensions truly mean and how they operate it’s time to up your hairstyling game!
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