If you have curly or coily hair, you've probably already considered a hair weave. While this styling technique can be applied to other hair types, weaves are still a more widespread practice among Black women. But before you do anything to your mane, it's important to know a few tips and tricks. Let's dive in!
First of all, what is weaving? Broadly speaking, weaving is a hairstyling technique that involves attaching natural or synthetic hair extensions to your head by sewing the weave wefts onto your pre-braided hair or by gluing them. To ensure the durability of the weave, the braids should be neither too tight nor too loose. It is important to find the right balance.
3 types of weaves
Weaving techniques vary depending on your desires. If you wish to keep part of your natural hair while simply adding some texture or length, you can opt for a partial weave (half-head weave). Conversely, if you want to conceal all of your hair, prefer a full weave (closed weave). In this case, all your natural hair will be braided and replaced by the wefts. This technique is considered the most protective hairstyle because none of your natural hair is manipulated or exposed. Finally, there is the open weave technique which leaves some natural strands visible. In this case, you must ensure that the natural hair blends well with the extensions, whether in terms of colors, textures, or even layering.
The benefits of hair weaving
Weaving offers many benefits, as in addition to allowing you to easily and elegantly change your look and length, it also protects your hair from external aggressions. Cold, wind, UV rays, and friction will no longer scare you. Indeed, when you wear a weave (especially a full weave), your ends and lengths are protected and can therefore grow without being damaged.
The drawbacks
Given the many benefits of weaving, many women are tempted by the experience. But before you start, you need to know the drawbacks and risks of weaving. The first problem lies in hair hygiene. That's right, ladies, since your scalp hair is completely concealed, it becomes difficult to provide them with the necessary care and to wash them. The risk of breakage, especially around the temples, is very high. If, in addition, you have used poor quality wefts, the result will be mediocre. Overly shiny and heavy wefts should be avoided.
