Hair Weaving & Extension Techniques For Black Women

Hair weaves started back in the Egyptian days when both males and females make wigs out of short human hair. They wore extensions for varies reasons: to delay or prevent  hair thinning, to protection hair/head from element and to avoid infection of  head lice. It wasn’t until the 1950s hair weaves was introduced to African Americans by a woman name Georgia Mae Norris. Since then weaves have been modernized. There are many different ways and techniques that one can wear weaves and people wear it for different reasons but very similar to the old days.

Extensions and Hair Weave Techniques

This method will give you a natural and undetectable look. It is a safe and healthy sew in technique. It is perfect for those who have hair as short as 1 inch and have always wanted a sew-in to add length or fullness to their hair. There are no braids, no bulk and of course no glue or adhesives. It is very versatile and once it’s applied you can wear updos, wraps and all other hairstyles. You can even wash and relax your hair WITHOUT removing you sew-in!!!! This method can last 8-10 weeks with proper care and maintenance.

Traditional Sew-in and Net Weaving

This technique is great for “Full Weaves.” A thin net is used on top of your braided hair as a foundation so the extensions can be applied without the bulkiness. This method is great for those who hair is thinning or have bald areas.

The net itself covers any problems area and allows extensions to be attached without any extra stress to the hair. This method last about 10-12 weeks.

Designer Weaves: Quick Weaves

This is the most used and cost efficient method. It uses bonding adhesive. With this method you can achieve many different styles and looks without the extra sitting time. A liquid sealant is applied to the top of your head to protect your hair from the bonding glue. After a trip under the dryer for twenty minutes the extensions are applied to give you any style you desire. Also don’t worry about the glue. With the glue protector the glue washes right off once you shampoo your hair.

Partial Weaving

Partial weaving can be done with any of the above methods. You will only be blending a few extensions to enhance your natural hair. This is great for adding length and fullness to your hair.

Micro Link Fusion

This is usually the preferred method because the fused hair extensions can last for about 3 to 5 months with skilled application and proper care. The extensions should be indistinguishable from your natural hair. The attachment site should be virtually invisible. Hot fusion or bonding uses hot glue to attach extensions to the root. This is the more traditional method. Micro Link Fusion uses a copper tube to attach extensions to the root. This method uses no heat so it is good for fine or thin hair. This method results in a more natural-feeling.

[Credit: hellobeautiful]