Six Things You Shouldn’t Do Before Getting A Weave

The first time I felt inspired to get a sew-in weave was during my freshman year of college. Everywhere I turned, it seemed like every woman was wearing a weave. Their hair ranged from mid-back to mid-thigh lengths, flaunting a stunning variety of textures and colors. It was captivating and left me in awe. When I returned to campus for my sophomore year, I decided to join the ranks of these glamorous women by getting my first sew-in.

As a total beginner, I didn’t know what to expect and inevitably made a few mistakes. I had no clue about the different types of virgin hair available there are so many textures, blends, and forms to choose from! I was also unsure about the length that would complement me best or which salon would provide the best service. To start, I Googled hair stores near me and read customer reviews to find a reputable place.

Quick Tip: Did you know that HazuHair is one of the most highly reviewed hair stores in the world? A heartfelt thank-you to our amazing clients for making that possible!

After getting my weave installed, I faced another challenge: learning how to properly maintain it. Over time, I not only learned from my initial missteps but also mastered the process of ensuring a flawless sew-in every single time. With each experience, I’ve gained valuable insights and honed my skills. Now, I’m thrilled to share what I’ve learned with you. Here are six critical things you should never do before getting a weave so you can avoid the mistakes I made and enjoy a seamless, beautiful experience!

1. You Should Not…

Avoid Choosing the Cheapest Hair Extensions

If you’re a college student on a tight budget or simply trying to save money, it’s tempting to pick the cheapest option for hair extensions. However, when it comes to sew-ins, compromising on cost often means compromising on quality and I’ve learned this the hard way.

Cheap hair extensions are typically made from synthetic materials. While they may seem appealing due to their low price, synthetic hair often looks unnatural because of its excessive shine. Worse, it can irritate your scalp, leading to redness and itching during or after installation. What should be a protective and glamorous style can quickly turn into an uncomfortable nightmare.

Investing in 100% human hair is the key to a seamless and stylish look. Although human hair extensions may cost more upfront, the quality, natural appearance, and overall feel make them worth every penny. Plus, many affordable human hair options won’t break the bank but will still give your scalp the comfort it deserves.

Pro Tip: HazuHair offers budget-friendly bundles made from 100% human hair, ensuring quality without the hefty price tag. If you’re looking to splurge a bit for maximum longevity and a luxurious look, raw hair weaves are an excellent choice. While more expensive, raw hair extensions last significantly longer and maintain their beauty over time.

When selecting your extensions, also consider factors like your lifestyle, personal style, and face shape. Your curl pattern and texture choice should complement your preferences and how much maintenance you’re willing to handle. For example, curly extensions can sometimes require less upkeep because they don’t need frequent heat styling. Meanwhile, straight extensions are versatile and universally flattering.

Personally, I like to switch things up based on the seasons. In colder months, I lean toward curly or voluminous styles for a cozy, dramatic look. When summer rolls around, I opt for sleek, short, and straight extensions to keep things light and fresh.

Choose the Right Hair Color for Seamless Extensions

The true beauty of hair extensions lies in their ability to blend flawlessly with your natural hair, making it nearly impossible to detect where your real hair ends and the extensions begin. To achieve this, selecting the right color is critical.

Even the slightest color mismatch can give away the fact that you’re wearing extensions, so understanding color dynamics is essential. Our natural hair isn’t made of a single, uniform color but rather a blend of subtle tones. Choosing extensions that closely mimic this variation will ensure a more natural look.

Matching Your Extensions to Your Hair

One effective approach is to purchase extensions that closely match your current hair color and then have both your natural hair and the extensions treated by a professional colorist. A skilled colorist can blend the two seamlessly, ensuring the shades align perfectly.

If you prefer not to dye your natural hair, consider consulting a stylist or extension expert. They can assess your hair’s unique tones and recommend extensions that blend harmoniously with your existing color. Many salons carry a variety of extensions in diverse shades, so having a professional assist you can save time and guarantee better results.

Consider Undertones and Multi-Tonal Extensions

When selecting extensions, even if you plan to cover your natural hair entirely, opt for those with multi-tonal shades. Extensions with slight color variations look more natural and mimic the dimensional appearance of real hair.

Additionally, pay attention to undertones. Your skin undertone warm, cool, or neutral should guide your hair color choice. For instance:

• Warm undertones pair well with warmer hair colors, like honey blondes or golden browns.
• Cool undertones match cooler hair shades, such as ash blondes or blue-black tones.
• Neutral undertones offer the versatility to suit both warm and cool colors.

For example, blonde hair isn’t a single shade but includes warm, yellow-toned blondes and cool, gray-toned blondes. Choosing the right undertone ensures a more harmonious appearance overall.

Make a Confident Color Decision

If you’re uncertain, always err on the side of professional advice. Stylists and color experts can guide you through the process and ensure your extensions enhance your natural beauty. With a little planning and the right knowledge, your extensions will not only look stunning but also blend seamlessly with your natural hair for a flawless finish.

Don’t Skip Shampooing Before Your Weave Installation

Would you go three to four weeks without a shower? Likely not, as it would lead to discomfort and even some unwelcome side glances. The same principle applies to your scalp it deserves the same care and attention as the rest of your body.

Before getting a weave, cleansing your scalp and hair thoroughly is a must. The process of installing a weave involves braiding your natural hair into a specific pattern and sewing extensions onto these braids. Once installed, the weave effectively covers your scalp and hair, making it harder to access for cleansing.

Why Pre-Wash Your Hair Matters

Even though your hair will be hidden, it will continue its natural cycle of shedding and producing sebum (natural oils). If you skip shampooing and conditioning before your install, you’re starting off with a layer of dirt, oil, and product buildup trapped beneath your weave. This not only leads to discomfort but can also irritate your scalp, potentially hindering your hair’s growth.

Imagine taking down your weave only to find your hair tangled, falling out, or caked with grime. Healthy hair starts with preparation, and a proper cleansing routine before installation is the foundation of a great weave experience.

How to Prepare Your Hair

About one to two days before your appointment, give your hair a spa day. Start with a deep cleansing shampoo to remove dirt, oil, and environmental debris. Be sure to massage your scalp to loosen product buildup. Follow with a conditioner to hydrate and strengthen your hair, ensuring it’s in optimal condition before braiding.

Once your hair is squeaky clean, you’re ready for your weave. But don’t forget about your scalp once the weave is installed.

Caring for Your Hair During Your Weave

Neglecting your scalp while wearing extensions can lead to itching, irritation, and buildup. Use a lightweight scalp treatment or cleansing spray to maintain a healthy scalp under your weave. This care ensures that when it’s time to remove your extensions, your natural hair will be just as healthy if not healthier than before.

Proper preparation and maintenance not only make your extensions look great but also help your natural hair thrive underneath. Start clean, stay clean, and enjoy your fabulous style!

Don’t Skip Deep Conditioning Before a Weave

Taking care of your natural hair is just as important as choosing the perfect weave. While shampooing and conditioning are necessary steps before installation, incorporating a deep conditioning treatment into your routine can take your hair care to the next level. Think of it as preparing your hair for a long journey it needs to be strong, resilient, and well-nourished to thrive.

Why Deep Conditioning Is Essential

A weave installation involves braiding and sewing, which can put added stress on your hair. To counter this, use a deep conditioner that is both protein-rich and moisturizing. Protein fortifies your strands, giving them the strength they need to endure the tension of braiding and the weight of extensions, while moisturizing agents provide hydration and flexibility.

Without deep conditioning, your hair may become brittle and prone to breakage, especially over the four to six weeks you’ll be wearing the weave. Deep conditioning helps to ensure that your hair remains healthy, strong, and prepared for this extended period of limited exposure to air and moisture.

Choose the Right Conditioner

Look for water-based conditioners infused with proteins like keratin or silk amino acids and hydrating ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut oil, or glycerin. These ingredients work together to replenish lost moisture while building strength.

Consider a Steam Treatment

For maximum hydration, try incorporating a steam treatment into your deep conditioning routine. The heat from steam opens up the hair cuticles, allowing the conditioner to penetrate deeply into the strands. This method delivers intense hydration and nourishment, giving your hair a head start before being tucked away under a weave.

Post-Installation Benefits

While your weave is installed, your hair won’t have direct access to external moisture from the environment, such as humidity in the air. Deep conditioning before the install ensures your hair is fully hydrated, locking in moisture that will sustain it through weeks of wear. This preparation not only prevents dryness but also promotes healthy hair growth, making it easier to manage once the weave is removed.

A Foundation for Growth and Shine

Treating your hair to a deep conditioning session before installing a weave isn’t just about aesthetics it’s about long-term care. Your hair will look and feel healthier both before and after the weave, ensuring that the installation process contributes to your hair’s overall well-being. Remember, a healthy foundation is the key to a stunning, worry-free weave experience!

Don’t Skip the Trim: The Secret to Healthy Hair Under Your Weave

Trimming your hair regularly is a cornerstone of healthy hair care. While it might feel counterintuitive to cut your hair when you’re trying to grow it out, trims are essential for maintaining its overall health and vitality. This step is especially important before getting a weave installed, as it prepares your natural hair to thrive while protected beneath the extensions.

Why Trimming Matters

The ends of your hair are the oldest and most vulnerable parts of each strand. Over time, they become prone to splitting, breakage, and general wear and tear, which can weigh down the rest of your hair and even hinder new growth.

By trimming off these damaged ends, you’re removing the “dead weight” and creating room for healthier, stronger hair to flourish. Think of it as decluttering your hair getting rid of what’s no longer serving you to make way for something better.

The Benefits of a Pre-Weave Trim

Getting a trim before a weave installation sets the stage for a smoother, healthier experience:

• Reduces Tangling: During the weeks you wear your weave, your natural hair will shed about 100 strands per day (a normal part of the hair growth cycle). Without trimming, these shed hairs can become entangled with split or damaged ends, leading to knots and matting. This tangling is a common culprit behind the frustration of removing a weave only to find your hair in a tangled mess.
• Prevents Breakage: Split ends don’t just sit at the tips of your hair they can travel up the strand, causing further damage if left unchecked. Trimming before a weave ensures that your hair remains strong and less prone to breakage during and after your installation.
• Encourages Growth: While trimming doesn’t directly make your hair grow faster, it does remove the damaged ends that could otherwise hinder your hair’s ability to retain length. Healthy ends mean your hair can grow without obstacles.
• Promotes Manageability: After removing your weave, hair with freshly trimmed ends will be easier to detangle and style. You’ll avoid the headaches of dealing with knots caused by damaged ends clinging to shed hair.

A Healthy Start for Beautiful Results

Trimming before a weave is like laying a strong foundation before building a house it sets you up for success. By removing broken or split ends, you’re not only improving the appearance and health of your hair but also ensuring a better extension experience.

The Takeaway

The goal is to have healthy, beautiful hair that complements your extensions and thrives even when concealed. Don’t skip this step. Schedule a professional trim before your next weave installation and notice the difference not just in how your extensions look but in how your natural hair feels and behaves afterward. Your strands will thank you!

Don’t Let a Friend Install Your Extensions: Why Professional Expertise Matters

While it might sound tempting and even convenient to let a friend install your extensions, it’s a choice that often leads to less-than-ideal results. If you’re aiming for a polished, long-lasting, and healthy hairstyle, investing in a professional stylist is a decision you won’t regret.

The Risks of a DIY or Friendly Install

Allowing a friend to install your extensions may seem like a great idea at first fun, informal, and potentially cheaper. However, it can quickly go awry for several reasons:

• Lack of Expertise: Hair extension installation is a skill that requires training and experience. Missteps in technique, such as improper tension during braiding or using unsuitable threads, can lead to a range of issues from discomfort to damage. Without professional knowledge, even the best intentions can result in hair disasters think uneven extensions, visible tracks, or, in my personal experience, a lion’s mane secured with fishing line instead of proper thread.
• Missed Customization: Professionals do more than simply attach extensions they tailor the entire process to your individual needs. From selecting the perfect hair color to blending extensions seamlessly with your natural hair, they ensure the final look flatters your features and fits your lifestyle. Friends, no matter how well-meaning, often lack the skill to deliver this level of precision.
• Potential for Damage: Poor installation techniques can cause significant harm to your natural hair. Excessive tension, improper braiding, or the use of unsuitable products can lead to breakage, scalp irritation, or even traction alopecia over time.

Why a Professional Stylist is Worth It

• Expert Recommendations: A professional stylist can advise you on the best extensions for your hair type, the most suitable braid pattern for your install, and even maintenance tips to prolong the life of your weave.
• Quality Tools and Products: Professionals use high-quality materials and tools that are designed specifically for hair extensions, ensuring a secure, durable, and comfortable installation.
• A Salon Experience: Visiting a salon not only ensures access to expert hands but also creates a stress-free environment where you can relax knowing your hair is in capable care. That said, some talented stylists operate out of their homes or smaller spaces what matters most is their skill and professionalism.
• Professional Results: With a stylist, you’re guaranteed a look that’s polished, seamless, and built to last. A professional can also blend the extensions flawlessly with your natural hair, making it nearly impossible to tell where one ends and the other begins.

Keep Friends as Friends

While your friend may be fantastic company, it’s best to leave hair extensions to the professionals. Watching YouTube tutorials doesn’t replace years of training and hands-on experience. Instead, book an appointment with a trusted stylist and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your hair is in expert hands.

The Takeaway

Your hair is an investment, and how it’s treated matters. Choosing a professional stylist for your extensions will save you time, frustration, and potential damage in the long run. Keep your friends for fun conversations and memorable moments leave the hair installations to the experts.

You’re on Your Way to the Best Weave Experience!

Achieving the perfect weave starts well before you settle into the salon chair. By following these tips, you’re setting yourself up for a seamless, healthy, and stunning result that enhances your natural beauty and protects your hair.

Taking the time to research and carefully select your extensions is an essential first step. The right extensions not only blend flawlessly with your natural hair color but also feel comfortable and keep your scalp irritation-free. While everyone close to you may know you’re rocking a weave, the ultimate goal is to make it undetectable.

• Choose Extensions Wisely: Synthetic hair, though budget-friendly, often appears unnaturally shiny, resembling plastic rather than hair. If that’s not the aesthetic you’re aiming for, authentic human hair is a better choice. Human hair extensions not only blend effortlessly but also come in natural tones that will leave everyone wondering how you manage to grow such beautiful, thick hair.
• Prep Your Hair for Success: The work you put into caring for your natural hair before your weave installation pays off in multiple ways. Shampooing, conditioning, deep conditioning, and trimming your hair are non-negotiable steps to ensure your hair stays healthy under your extensions. These steps allow your hair to breathe, grow, and thrive even after you remove your weave.
• Healthy Hair, Stunning Results: A good weave doesn’t just elevate your look it’s an investment in your confidence and self-expression. When you treat your natural hair well beforehand, your weave becomes more than a style change; it’s a testament to your commitment to self-care and hair health.
• Let’s Keep the Conversation Going!: Do you have additional tips or tricks for achieving the perfect weave? Have you experienced the benefits of avoiding these common mistakes? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Together, we can continue to explore ways to enhance our weave experiences while keeping our hair strong and healthy.

Remember, your hair journey is yours to own make it one to be proud of!

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