by Latrisha Smith-Barney

Created on: June 16, 2009   Last Updated: June 18, 2009

Hair Weave 101

Hair weaving is a technique that enables the stylist to add extensions of hair, in order to create length and or volume.The hair being added can be straight, curly, kinky, or whatever texture is chosen by the wearer.

Hair weaving has become extremely popular , and extensions can be bonded, braided or laced into the existing hair. In the glue on method, called bonding, the natural hair can be braided, however, it does not have to be, and the weave hair is glued directly onto the natural hair, close to the scalp, so there are no tracks to hide. This is a temporary method.

Similar to the bonded weave, is a fusion weave. The natural hair is divided into small sections and then the extensions are attached to the natural hair using hot wax. Fusion weaves tend to last longer, 2-3 months, and are more expensive. As with the bonded method, there are no weave tracks to hide, so the hair appears to be growing from the scalp and it appears full.

In the sew in technique, the head is cornrowed or braided, and the hair is secured to the underside of the braid by sewing it with a needle and thread. This method can last up to six weeks.

There are two basic types of hair extensions. The first are individual extensions which work best with straight hair, silky hair, fine hair, or slightly wavy hair. A good stylist can add them so they'll look very natural with the movement of your hair.

About 18-20 extensions need to be weaved with the natural hair and then secured at their base with a superfine, high strength thread. Although some stylists like to use bonding glue, it's suggested you don't allow this because it can damage your natural hair

The second kind of extensions are called wefts. These are groups of extensions attached to a band. These are heavier and bulkier than the individual ones but they are good for extending length and/or adding height to medium-to-thick textured hair. They're attached by sewing them directly onto tracts (horizontal braids) from your own hair. The wefts lay under your natural hair, horizontally against your scalp. It is preferable to use extensions made of human hair.

In caring for a weave it is important to treat your weave like your own hair, comb and style your weave daily, and avoid using gels. Weaves with glue and adhesives may cause hair breakage and damage. Using hair weaves presents the wearer with a wide range of styling options and versatility.

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