I Just Got Sew-In Hair Extensions and They Hurt, Help!

Sew-in hair extensions are a fantastic protective style that not only helps promote hair growth but also keeps you looking fabulous.

I’ve personally relied on this tried-and-true method whenever I want to restart my hair journey or explore a new look.

Who wouldn’t appreciate a protective style that offers such versatility? With a sew-in, there are countless options to consider. But the question remains: do sew-in extensions hurt? 🤕

While sew-in methods allow for experimentation with various lengths, textures, and colors, the installation process can occasionally be uncomfortable.

Sew-Ins Can Be Painful

In this article, we’ll explore why sew-ins can sometimes be uncomfortable, but don’t worry—we’ll also share tips on how to prevent pain during and after the installation.

First and foremost, if your sew-in feels too tight, it’s important not to just “deal with it.” 💇🏿‍♀️ You shouldn’t feel the need to “suck it up,” nor should discomfort be considered a standard part of getting a sew-in. A sew-in that is excessively tight can lead to scalp damage and even hair loss, so it’s crucial to take this seriously. Here are three signs that your sew-in might be too tight:

1. Bumps and Swelling: If you notice bumps and swelling around your braids, that’s a clear indicator of excessive tightness.
2. Headaches: Experiencing headaches while smiling or laughing can signify that your hair is pulled too tight.
3. Sleep Discomfort: If you find it hard to sleep or need painkillers to manage discomfort, it’s time to reassess your installation.

Are You Tender-Headed?

You may have heard the term “tender-headed” used by friends or acquaintances. If you’re unfamiliar, it refers to someone whose scalp is sensitive to pain.

Individuals who are tender-headed often experience heightened sensitivity during hairstyling, making even slight pulling while detangling extremely uncomfortable. This sensitivity can make it challenging for them to tolerate sew-ins, ponytails, or braided styles without significant discomfort.

And if you’re looking for bulk hair for boho braids or any other styles, don’t hesitate to check us out!

Furthermore, while being tender-headed is relatively common, some people may develop a tender scalp after getting a sew-in, which is a slightly different issue. Let’s discuss some reasons why you might experience a tender scalp post-sew-in.

3 Reasons for a Tender Scalp Post Sew-In

#1 The Braid Down

The braid down, or the foundation of your sew-in, is crucial for a successful installation. However, if the braids are done too tightly, they can create discomfort on your scalp. Tight braids can lead to swelling or bumps known as tension bumps, which occur when hair follicles become inflamed due to the excessive tension placed on your hair.

#2 The Sew-In

Just like the braid down, your stylist needs to secure the tracks properly. Since a typical sew-in lasts about 4 to 6 weeks, stylists often sew tightly to ensure the style holds up.

However, this can complicate the issue, making it difficult to tell if the discomfort comes from the braids or the tightly sewn tracks. We’ll delve into this more later. This is where human hair bundles come into play, as they mimic the texture of your natural hair and can last longer with proper care and maintenance.

#3 Lack of Hydration

This might sound surprising, but it’s true! A dehydrated scalp can hinder the production of natural oils, leading to dryness and itchiness. 🌵

When you add extensions and subject your scalp to tension and pulling, it can exacerbate the irritation.

This can turn a mild issue into a more significant problem, causing your dry, itchy scalp to become inflamed and sensitive to the touch.

Speak Up!

One of the most effective ways to prevent a painful experience is to speak up! Unfortunately, many clients hesitate to communicate their discomfort to their stylist during the installation process. Some hairstylists can be heavy-handed, leading to overly tight braids. By voicing your concerns, you can make a significant difference in both your hairstyle and, most importantly, your scalp health.

Your stylist might not be aware of the discomfort you’re experiencing, so don’t hesitate to express your feelings! It’s crucial to communicate any issues as soon as they arise. While it’s important to prepare for your sew-ins, the time to voice your discomfort is during the service. Once the installation is complete, stylists may be less willing to undo their hard work to make adjustments. If you notice your hair is too tight, let your stylist know right away and request a lighter touch when braiding.

Beauty is Pain

When I first began getting sew-ins regularly, my stylist aimed for a flat look around my edges, but she pulled the thread so tightly that I developed white tension bumps. I informed her that it was too tight, and we eventually discovered that leaving some of my edges out could alleviate the strain during braiding.

Many people only realise the implications of tight installations when it’s too late. Over time, excessively tight sew-ins can lead to breakage or even more severe issues like permanent damage to your hair follicles or traction alopecia. While most of us now focus on leaving our edges out, it’s essential to remember that the crown area of our scalp can also suffer damage from wearing hair extensions.

How to Loosen a Tight Sew-In

If you’re dealing with the discomfort of a poorly installed sew-in, here are some strategies to help alleviate the tension:

#1 Apply an Oil

Using oils like peppermint or tea tree oil, or a specialized braid spray, can help soothe tender areas of your scalp. These oils possess anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve irritation and treat any sores.

Consider using a product like New Life Hair Growth Serum, which combines oils and moisturizers to rejuvenate your scalp after getting extensions. Just remember to use these oils in moderation to avoid any adverse effects.

#2 Use a Steaming Towel on Your Scalp

Moisture is key! Applying a steaming towel to your scalp can help reduce pain by loosening the weave and allowing for some adjustment of the tracks. The steam will create slippage between the extensions and the thread, making it easier to manipulate your hair.

This method is particularly effective if you have wavy or curly hair and don’t mind re-styling afterward.

#3 Cut Some Threads

Carefully cutting a few threads can also relieve pressure from tight sew-in extensions. Be strategic with this approach! It’s crucial to avoid cutting your hair in the process, which could lead to disaster.

Focus on cutting the stitches around the tension areas, and gently pull or feel around the cut area to ensure you’re only removing the right pieces of thread.

#4 Consult Your Stylist

If the discomfort is unbearable, it may be necessary to return to your stylist for adjustments. While it’s best to address pain during the installation, you might not realise how tight the sew-in is until you get home.

If you’ve invested a significant amount of money in your hairstyle and find it uncomfortable, it’s within your rights to seek a professional correction at no additional cost. Politely explain the situation to your stylist, show them the problem, and ask what can be done. A good stylist will prioritize your satisfaction.

HazuHair offers stunning hair textures in a range of lengths that are definitely worth your investment! Choosing this hair means you can enjoy a comfortable wear without compromising the health of your scalp.

Feel free to review these tips, and we encourage you to share any additional suggestions in the comments below about how you’ve managed to overcome intense scalp pain.

and…

If you’re looking to buy high-quality wigs or hair extensions, look no further than HazuHair.

We are a trusted Vietnamese hair factory with over 100 skilled workers, offering a wide range of hair styles including wavy, curly, straight, kinky, and more.

Our products come in various colors such as natural black, ombre, blonde, red, pink, and many others.

Reach out to us today!

• Hair Factory: Tan Son 2 Village, Tan Dinh, Lang Giang, Bac Giang Province, Vietnam
• Hotline: +849 4949 3883
• Whatsapp Mrs ThanhLam: https://wa.me/84949493883
• Website: https://hazuhair.com