How to Care for a Sewn-in Hair Extension

How to Care for a Sewn-in Hair Extension
Photo Credit my long hair image by Frenk_Danielle Kaufmann from Fotolia.com

Sewn-in hair extensions are achieved when your stylist braids along the scalp, and then sews tracks of hair into the braids. Sewn-in extensions are typically made from human hair, which makes them good quality but very delicate. If you have sewn-in hair extensions, proper care will make your extensions last longer and look better for the life of your extensions. By washing, conditioning, styling and gentle handling, your extensions will last the six to eight weeks that they should.

Step 1

Oil your scalp whenever your scalp feels itchy. The tight braids can be a challenge, especially if it's your first time with sewn-in extensions. They can feel itchy and uncomfortable. Scratching at your head can result in frizzy roots and noticeable tracks, so spread a little coconut oil on your finger tips and apply them to the areas of scalp around the braids to find relief.

Step 2

Wash your hair extensions every seven to 14 days. Your hair extensions are not your natural hair, which means they can collect and grow bacteria on the hair shaft, like a foreign object, notes BrownSkin.net. Use a good-quality shampoo that is gentle. Hair extensions are typically more delicate and brittle than your natural hair, so look for a gentle baby shampoo or a shampoo that is sulfate free to keep your extensions looking smooth and shiny. Condition your hair each time you wash your extensions.

Step 3

Pat your hair dry after getting out of the shower, suggests Laissez Faire hair products. Scrubbing it dry with a towel with roughen the hair cuticles for messy hair shafts. Always allow your extensions to dry before you go to bed. Sleeping on wet hair extensions could leave them broken and messy the next morning. If possible, sleep on a silk pillowcase or with a silk scarf to protect your hair from pillow friction

Step 4

Style your hair carefully. When detangling your hair after a shower, start with the bottom of the extension and work your way up to reduce pulling at the hair, says The Hair Extension Guide website. Never perm or color hair extensions on your own. If you want another style or color, your stylist can sew in extensions that already have the style and color you want. Use heated styling tools sparingly to preserve your hair extensions. They can become dry and brittle when you treat them roughly.

Step 5

Schedule an appointment with your stylist six to eight weeks after having the extensions sewn in. Most sewn-in extensions will begin to show signs of wear by this time. Your stylist can remove them or place filler tracks in the braids to update your look. If your hair shows signs of damage, like broken hair at the roots or traction alopecia, remove the braids and allow your hair to rest for at least six months.

Things You'll Need

  • Coconut oil
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Towel

References

Article reviewed by Jenna Marie Last updated on: Mar 31, 2011

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments