By H.C. Hisel
Overview
Weaves and hair extensions are two different techniques of installing hair pieces. Unlike your natural hair, weaves and extensions can't restore themselves once they are damaged. Therefore, taking proper care of your hair pieces is very important to ensure the beautiful longevity of their life. With proper care, your hair pieces can look great and be reused for years.
Step 1
Secure your hair while you sleep. Hair pieces can become easily knotted or tangled at the installation place. Wear a large cotton bandana around your hair while you sleep to avoid excessive friction that might cause damage. Fold the bandana in half dragging one corner to the opposite diagonal corner, creating a triangle. Place the long side of the triangle across the middle of your forehead, continuing around to the middle of the back of your head just beneath all of your hair. Tie a knot underneath your hair to secure the bandana in place. The third tail of the triangle should be hanging over toward the back of your head. Gather all your hair onto your head, within the bandana. Keep the hair in place by tying all three tails together.
Step 2
Wash your hair appropriately. It's best to wash your hair approximately every two days. Washing your hair every day can cause unneeded wear to your hair pieces. In addition, it's important to use
shampoos and conditioners that do not contain any detergents or silicones. These ingredients leave excess residue on your hair. In the long run this will cause damage to your hair pieces. Also, detergents will degenerate any glues used during installation, causing your hair pieces to have to be reinstalled sooner. When you're washing your hair, use the tips of your fingers to carefully massage shampoo into your
scalp. Be gentle and don't tug or twist to ring out your hair.
Step 3
Use precaution during styling. Gather all of your hair into one hand while brushing with the other hand. This will ensure that you don't cause stress at the installation point. Also, let your hair air-dry rather than using a blow-dryer, and avoid excess heat while using styling instruments. When heat is used, it's best to always apply a heat-protective serum beforehand.
Step 4
Remember to take care of your scalp. When wearing hair pieces it's important to consider the care of your scalp, especially if you have a
hair weave. Hair weaves are secured to your natural hair in a fashion that your hair is subjected to product buildup. Use witch hazel in-between washings to cleanse your scalp and natural hair. Witch hazel will also correct your skin's natural PH balance, allowing your scalp to produce the adequate amount of natural oils necessary to maintain a healthy appearance. Rub witch hazel between your hands, and use your fingers to massage the product within your hair into your scalp. Repeat as often as necessary.
Step 5
Schedule regular visits with your beautician. Follow your beauticians advice on guidelines to how often you should schedule a maintenance visit. You will need to retighten your weave or apply new extensions as your
hair grows out. Regular visits will keep your hair in good shape.
