What is a Curly Sew In?
A curly sew in is a hair extension technique that involves sewing wefts of curly hair onto cornrows that have been braided into the natural hair. This method creates a natural-looking, voluminous head of hair that can be styled in various ways.
Benefits of Curly Sew Ins
- Natural-looking: Curly sew ins blend seamlessly with natural hair, creating a realistic and undetectable look.
- Protective: Braiding the hair before sewing in extensions helps protect it from damage caused by heat styling and manipulation.
- Versatile: Curly sew ins can be styled in countless ways, from loose waves to tight curls, allowing for a wide range of looks.
- Time-saving: Sew ins minimize the need for daily styling, saving time and effort.
- Low-maintenance: Curly sew ins require minimal maintenance, such as occasional washing and conditioning.
How to Get a Curly Sew In
- Prepare your hair: Wash and deep condition your natural hair to remove any buildup. Braid your hair into cornrows that are tightly secured.
- Select your extensions: Choose curly hair extensions that match the color, texture, and length of your natural hair.
- Sew in the extensions: Using a curved needle and thread, sew the wefts of hair extensions onto the cornrows. Start from the bottom row and work your way up.
- Seal the ends: Once all the wefts are sewn in, seal the ends with a heat sealant or glue to prevent unraveling.
- Style: Style the sew in as desired using heat tools or leave it in its natural state.
Types of Curly Sew Ins
- Virgin hair sew ins: Made from 100% human hair that has not been chemically treated.
- Remy hair sew ins: Made from human hair that has been collected in one direction, resulting in minimal tangling.
- Synthetic hair sew ins: Made from artificial fibers that are heat-resistant and affordable.
- Clip-in curly sew ins: Temporary extensions that can be clipped onto and removed from the hair easily.
How to Maintain Curly Sew Ins
- Wash: Gently wash your sew in every 7-10 days using a sulfate-free shampoo.
- Condition: Apply a leave-in conditioner to the hair to keep it hydrated.
- Deep condition: Perform a deep conditioning treatment every 2-3 weeks to restore moisture and shine.
- Avoid heat: Limit the use of heat tools on your sew in to prevent damage.
- Get regular trims: Trim the ends of your sew in every 6-8 weeks to remove split ends.
Cost of Curly Sew Ins
The cost of a curly sew in varies depending on factors such as the hair type, length, and salon location. On average, you can expect to pay between $300 and $800.
Where to Get a Curly Sew In
- Salon: Consult a professional hair stylist at a reputable salon for a high-quality sew in.
- Home: You can also purchase sew in kits and install them yourself at home with the help of a friend or family member.
Tips for Success
- Choose a reputable stylist: Look for a stylist who has experience in curly sew ins and can provide references.
- Prepare your hair properly: Braid your hair tightly and make sure there are no tangles before sewing in the extensions.
- Use the right thread: Opt for a thread that matches the color of your hair to ensure a seamless blend.
- Don’t over-tighten: Sew the extensions just tight enough to secure them without causing discomfort.
- Seal the ends: Protect your sew in from unraveling by sealing the ends with a heat sealant or glue.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Itching: This can be caused by an allergic reaction to the thread or glue used. Try using a different type of thread or glue and avoid scratching your scalp.
- Tangling: Use a wide-toothed comb to gently remove any tangles and apply a leave-in conditioner to reduce friction.
- Shedding: Some shedding is normal, but excessive shedding can be caused by poor quality hair extensions or improper installation. Consult a stylist for advice.
- Dryness: Curly sew ins can get dry and brittle over time. Deep condition your hair regularly to restore moisture.
- Breakage: Avoid over-manipulating your sew in and use heat tools sparingly to prevent breakage.
Conclusion
Curly sew ins offer a versatile and low-maintenance way to transform your hair. By following these tips, you can achieve a stunning and natural-looking head of curly locks. Embrace the versatility of curly sew ins and enjoy your newfound confidence!