Hair Weaves
Wigs, Weaves and Extensions—Oh My!
Years ago hair weaves and extensions were looked down upon. Women who chose to add to their tresses were thought of as “fake” or trying to be something that they weren’t. What I find interesting is that wigs were totally acceptable, I guess because they were so obviously “wiggy” back then that people didn’t look upon them as a follicle deception.
Few people realized that almost everyone from the actresses on Dynasty, to your everyday homemaker was wearing some type of hair weave, piece or extensions. Nowadays wearing hair weaves is totally in “Vogue” in fact, it’s encouraged. And why not, if you can’t grow it weave it. You can go from short, to long, to curly in an instant. Ever secretly wanted to go blonde, but were too afraid to bleach your hair? Well you can do it all with just a simple visit to your local salon or beauty supply store. Are you one of the few women out there who has never experimented with the many hair weave options available? Don’t know what’s better synthetic or natural? Well let me “hip” you to the subject.
HAIR TYPE
Synthetic
Synthetic or plastic hair is a man-made product and is used mainly for braids and twists. It can be used for weave styles but the look is unnatural and can be easily detected. Synthetic hair can also damage the hair and irritate individuals with sensitive skin. However, it does provide more versatility in color, texture and style, and as long as it looks good, most women don’t seem to care if it looks synthetic or not.
Human
Usually obtained from Europe or Asia, human hair is ideal for more natural free flowing hairstyles. However, it’s more expensive than synthetic and the price can vary depending on your hair type and the style you want to achieve.
WEAVE METHODS
Braided
With this technique your natural hair is braided horizontally in cornrows along the middle of your scalp. The hair weft is then sewn onto the braids with weaving thread. The number of wefts that you have sewn in will depend on the amount of hair you want added. Your own natural hair is then combed over the extensions to blend. With proper care this style can last for up to two months.
Bonded
In this method the hair is divided into small sections and a bonding adhesive (glue) is used to attach the weave hair to your natural hair. The application is done close to the scalp to avoid detection. This method gives your weave more freedom of movement and it blends easier with your natural hair. However, the glue can cause irritation and damage to the hair when removed. Bonded weaves usually last up to two months and may loosen up on their own.
Fusion
Fusion weaves are similar to bonded weaves, the only difference is that the weave hair is attached with hot wax vice glue. Fusion weaves also tend to last longer, from two to three months, and are more expensive. Just like the bonded method, fusion weaves will give you a more natural, free flowing look.
CARE AND UP KEEP
Weave hair is prone to dryness, so you should care for a weave just like you would care for your own natural hair, by keeping it shampooed, conditioned and moisturized on a regular basis with gentle products. Also remember to apply deep conditioners as needed, and avoid heavy over-processing with dyes and bleaches. Overuse of styling aids like blow-dryers and curling irons can also cause considerable damage, so please use caution.
If you want to change things up a bit or just take a break from weaves. Wigs and hair pieces provide another more affordable styling alternative. And don’t worry, these are not your mother’s wigs, today's wig styles offer more style, texture and color choices than ever before. Hair extensions and weaves can provide an unlimited variety of options to express your personal style. And like most divas, I have tried them all. However, they are only short term alternatives. Leaving them in for too long and/or not properly caring for them can result in hair damage, breakage and even hair loss. So always consult with a professional and get the facts beforehand.
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