How Long Do Sew Ins Last?

Whenever someone mentions sew in weaves, the first thing that comes to the mind is flexibility and longevity. More and more women are choosing sew-in weaves to enhance their beauty and protect their natural mane. If you are considering the option of getting a sew-in weave, you may want to read through this article to the end. In this blog, I share detailed information on how long a sew in lasts and how to take care of your extensions so that you get to reap the maximum benefits from it.

 

 

First things first, what is a sew in weave?

 

A sew weave is a hair extension application method that involves the braiding of the natural hair into cornrows then sewing the wefts or tracks of hair onto the cornrows. Women that use the sew-in method are after length and volume.

Typically, sew in extensions are made from human hair. This means that they are of high quality yet very delicate. To attach the hair extension without ruining it, a professional stylist will create cornrows along the scalp then firmly sew the tracks onto the braids.

The type of hair extensions used for the installation depends on your budget and your needs. At Hair Extensions Inc, we offer 4 different grades of hair that range from Good to Best.

 

Secondly, how long does a sew in weave last?

 

A healthy sew in cycle is 6-8 weeks depending on growth and home care. We recommend you come in for a maintenance appointment every two weeks for a shampoo and at 4 weeks for a shampoo and tightening. For a lace closure sew in, I suggest getting the closure repositioned at week 3.

 

Why choose a sew in weave?

 

1. Stability and longevity

Sew-ins instantly save you from the stress of having to style your natural hair for that party weekend or vacation. If you are a fan of swimming, simply dive into the water without having to worry about your extensions falling out. Imagine the embarrassment and stress that sew ins can save you!

2. Convenience

Sew-ins are a convenient way to switch up your appearance without the need to do much with your own hair. Who doesn’t want to just wake up and go? Also, sew ins save you styling time because sew ins typically hold the style much longer than your own hair.

3. Save money

Human hair extensions that are well taken care of can last one up to 1 year or even more depending on which grade you purchase. Sew-in extensions are not an exception. Quality bundles are a cost effective way to achieve your desired look without having to dig deeper into your pocket.

 

How to Make Your Sew-in Weave Last Long

 

 Sew ins are hair extensions however they need to be treated as though they were your actual hair. This is because they are usually made from natural human hair and are not receiving any nutrients from your scalp. Some of the highly recommended tips include:

 

• Use of Top Quality Hair Products

Improper treatment of your sew-ins will result in deterioration of your bundles at a faster rate than you expected. Be gentle when brushing your hair. In fact, sew-ins should be treated better than you would treat your natural hair! Use a sulfate free shampoo and conditioner when cleaning your sew-ins. Use conditioning products that leave the hair soft and easy to manage.

Before shampooing, be sure to detangle your sew-in weave from the ends towards the roots. This significantly reduces breakage and prevents tangling. Avoid vigorous rubbing when washing and work your way from the roots up.

When drying, gently rub your sew-in weave with a towel from the roots to the ends. To maintain curls, apply a curl definer and air dry or diffuse the hair.

• Wrap Your Hair When Going to Bed

Yes, even sew-ins need to be wrapped when you go to bed. Before lying down to sleep, cover your head with a satin bonnet, hair wrap or scarf to prevent tangling of your ends. If you’d rather not tie your hair, then I’d recommend investing in a satin pillow case. You can even tie your hair in a ponytail to prevent tanging as you toss and turn in your sleep.

• Regularly Wash Your Hair

Your installed sew-in should be shampooed at least once every two weeks. Regular shampooing helps in maintaining your hair and your extension’s sheen and texture. Pay more attention to the ends as they tend to be the driest part. Apply a generous amount of sulfate free conditioner to this portion and gently untangle it. Once all the product has been rinsed out, allow both your hair and extensions to fully dry. You could opt to air dry it or sit under a dryer. Failure to let your hair fully dry could lead to a bad smell or even mold. The best way to ensure proper drying, it’s best to get your sew in weave maintained by a professional.

• Use Moisturizing Products

It is important that your sew-in receives as much moisture as it can since the strands are not growing from your scalp. Use natural oils on your scalp and keep your cornrows in perfect condition. Remember, over-shampooing your hair could lead to drying of your scalp and strands.

• Apply a heat protectant

When styling your sew-in, apply a heat protectant to prevent your strands from heat damage. Equipment such as blow driers, flat irons, tongs and curling irons can easily damage your sew in if over used. It is advisable to brush your hair in a downward motion and to detangle your hair starting from the ends towards the roots. 

• Swimming

When swimming, remember to wear a swim cap to prevent contact with chlorinated water which tends to strip hair of its natural moisture. If you opt to not wear a swim cap, please thoroughly shampoo and condition your hair after swimming. Generally, it is important to ensure your hair is clean at all times.

• Deep Conditioning

This can be done at least once a week. Soak your extension in lukewarm water to which a generous amount of conditioner has been added. Let it sit for about 30 minutes, thoroughly rinse out all the product and allow it to dry naturally. If a hair drier must be used, let it be on its cool setting.

 

How do you Tell it’s Time to Take Out Your Sew-in?

 

Even if hair extensions are cared for by the book, eventually you have to take them out. Your natural hair is constantly growing (which is a sign that it’s healthy and well protected). After two to three months, the hair growth is going to push the extension down hence you will need to take down your sew in.

 

In Conclusion…

 

Do not ignore the timeframe. A healthy sew in cycle is 6-8 weeks before take it down and reinstalling it. We all want beautiful hair at all times so be sure to take out your sew-in within 8 weeks of installation. The beauty of sew-ins is that one can switch up their style as many times as they wish, most times using the same extensions.

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