Wefts - the new trend in practice

January 3, 2024
Reading time:
10 - 12 minutes

weft extensions, also known as weft extensions, are a popular method of hair thickening and lengthening. In contrast to individual strands of hair used in other extension methods, wefts consist of a long, continuous band of hair. This band is usually made from real hair and can be purchased in different lengths, colors and textures.

Wefts differ from other hair extension methods such as tape extensions, keratin bondings or clip-ins primarily in the way they are attached and the strain they place on your own hair. While methods such as keratin bonding or tape extensions use individual strands of hair that are attached directly to your own hair, wefts are usually incorporated into your own hair by sewing them into a complete row.

A key difference also lies in the wearing time: wefts can be worn for a longer period, over 12 months with good care, while other methods such as clip-ins are intended for variable use and need to be removed regularly. In addition, wefts offer a more natural integration into your own hair, as they cover a larger area and can be better adapted to different hair textures.

We have also tested braids for you ourselves and would therefore like to give you a practical insight into the scope and care.

Special care requirements for braids

weft extensions can be maintained in their beauty and longevity with special care. As they are real hair, they are just as sensitive as your own hair to external influences such as heat, friction and chemical treatments. Proper care ensures that the wefts remain healthy, retain their shine and blend in seamlessly with your own hair.

Recommended care products

In order to make optimum use of the service life of wefts and to maintain their appearance, it is advisable to use products that are optimally matched to wefts. We particularly recommend the following selected products:

  • Heat protection: When styling, it is important to use heat protection to protect the wefts from damage caused by high temperatures. The Blowout Cream from Newsha or the Heat Protection Blowout Spray or the Invisible Defense Universal Protection Spray from Oribe have excellent properties in this area.
  • Hairbrush: A suitable hairbrush that gently removes knots is recommended for the care of wefts. Brushes with soft bristles are recommended here.
  • Hair masks: Regular use of hair masks can deeply condition the hair and should be used according to the manufacturer's instructions. Here we recommend the Pure Mild Care Masque from Newsha or the Signature Moisture Masque from Oribe, which have excellent properties in this area

Tips for washing and drying wefts

A proper washing and drying routine is important for the care of your wefts. The recommendations for wefts are similar to those for your own hair.

  • Blow-drying: Wet hair is very sensitive. Wefts should therefore always be dried before they are brushed, preferably from the ends to the roots. We highly recommend the AIRQ Hair Dryer from our partner Varis.
  • Conditioning spray for sea or chlorinated water: Before bathing in sea or chlorinated water, the hair should be treated with a protective spray and washed and conditioned immediately after bathing. For example, the Classic High Performance Leave-In Conditioner from Newsha.

Other tips

Sun and wind protection: The hair should be protected from the sun and wind to prevent damage and tangles. This can help you to take optimum care of your wefts and extend their lifespan.

Attachment methods for wefts

The application of wefts hair extensions is an essential aspect for a natural look and long-lasting comfort. There are both advantages and disadvantages to the different methods. The different techniques are also suitable for different starting situations.

Sewing in braids

Sewing in wefts is a tried and tested method that is particularly suitable for clients with medium to thick hair. The wefts are sewn into beats (small keratin bonds).

Advantages:

  • Longevity: Sewn-in wefts generally last longer than other methods, often several weeks to months.
  • Natural look: Careful stitching along the head creates a very natural look.
  • Less strain on your own hair: As the wefts are evenly distributed on the head, there is less tension and pressure on your own hair.

Disadvantages:

  • Time required: The sewing-in method is more time-consuming than other methods such as tape extensions.
  • Regular raising: In order to maintain an optimal appearance, sewn-in wefts need to be raised regularly and adjusted if necessary.

Overview of other mounting techniques

In addition to sewing in wefts, there are a variety of other techniques for attaching hair extensions, each with their own specific characteristics. Some of the best known and most commonly used methods are clip-in wefts and tape extensions.

  • Clip-in weaves: This method is ideal for temporary changes. Clip-ins are easy to attach and remove, but offer less durability and natural look than sewn-in wefts.
  • Bonding tape extensions: Even though tape extensions are not wefts, we would like to mention them here as an application technique. Tape extensions are a popular choice for a semi-permanent solution. They are quicker to apply than sewn-in wefts, but can put more strain on your own hair at the bonding points. In addition, handling with wefts is somewhat easier, as you don't have to pay attention to any glue points and no strands can fall out through care.

Sleeping with braids: Tips for comfort and longevity

Sleeping with wefts, but also with other hair extension techniques, requires special attention to ensure both overnight comfort and the longevity of the hair extensions.

Correct night care

Proper night care is an important aspect of extending the life of wefts and ensuring a good night's sleep at the same time.

  • Gently tie it up: Before going to bed, gently tie your hair into a loose plait or braid. This prevents the braids from becoming tangled or entangled during the night.
  • Using a silk pillowcase: A silk pillowcase reduces friction on the hair, which is particularly important to avoid frizz and tangles with wefts.

Suitable hairstyles for the night

Choosing the right hairstyle for the night helps to protect the wefts and avoid tangles.

  • Loose braids or ponytails: A loose braided hairstyle or low ponytail helps to keep the wefts in place and reduces the risk of tangles and false pulls
  • Avoid tight hairstyles: Tight braids or ponytails should be avoided as they can exert unnecessary tension on the wefts and your own hair.

Additional tips

In addition to the right hairstyle, there are other tips that should be followed when sleeping with wefts to maximize the life of your wefts while promoting a comfortable night's sleep.

  • Avoiding wet hair when sleeping: It is important that the wefts are completely dry before going to bed to avoid mold growth and unpleasant odors.
  • Loosen knots regularly: Before sleeping, any knots should be carefully untied to prevent major tangles overnight.

These tips can not only improve the wearing comfort during the night, but also significantly extend the life of the wefts.

Frequently asked questions about the durability and reuse of wefts

How long do wefts last?

The durability of wefts depends on various factors, including the quality of the wefts, the care and the method of application.

  • Quality of the wefts: High-quality wefts made from real hair can last for several months to a year with good care. We recommend our partner Simplie Hair, which produces high-quality wefts with a particularly invisible band.
  • Care: Regular and careful care extends the life of the wefts considerably.
  • Application method: Sewn-in wefts generally last longer than bondings or tape extensions.

When and how often do wefts need to be raised?

Raising the wefts is necessary because the natural hair continues to grow and the wefts no longer sit perfectly on the head after a while.

  • Sewn-in wefts: As a rule, these should be raised every 6 to 8 weeks.
  • Other methods: With other methods, such as tape extensions, the amount of hair that needs to be raised depends on the frequency of wear and individual hair growth.

Reuse of weaves: Possibilities and limitations

  • Reuse: High-quality wefts can generally be reused for up to one year if they are well cared for. The number of reuses depends on the care and use of the wefts.
  • Limitations: Wefts that are heavily strained or damaged should not be reused as this can lead to an uneven or unnatural appearance.

Wefts for special occasions: styling tips

Ideas with braids

Wefts offer the flexibility to create different hairstyles for special occasions. Here are some ideas:

  • Elegant updos: Wefts can provide extra volume and length to create sophisticated updos such as chignons or elaborate knots.
  • Waves or glamorous curls: wefts can be treated with heat in the same way as your own hair, e.g. with curling irons. The extra hair makes the result more voluminous and the curls or waves last longer.

Using braids for updos and plaits

  • Integration into the hairstyle: Braids should be integrated into the hairstyle in such a way that they blend seamlessly with your own hair. This can be achieved by cleverly hiding the braids and matching the hair texture.
  • Use of hair accessories: Hair accessories such as hairpins, ribbons or flowers can be used without any problems.

Conclusion: When are braids the right choice?

Who are wefts particularly suitable for?

Wefts are an excellent choice for a variety of people and needs:

  • For those looking for volume and length: Wefts are ideal for people who want to thicken or lengthen their hair, especially if they are looking for a longer-term solution.
  • For people with medium to thick hair: Wefts are particularly suitable for these hair types, as they conceal the joins well.
  • For hair styling enthusiasts: People who like to try out different hairstyles benefit from the versatility of the wefts, as the durability of the styling can be increased.

Final tips for decision-making

  • Consider your lifestyle: If you lead an active lifestyle or frequent swimming pools, bear in mind that this may require additional care of the wefts.
  • Budget and long-term investment: Wefts are an investment in your appearance. Take into account both the initial costs and the ongoing costs for fitting and maintenance.
  • Seek professional advice: It is always advisable to seek professional advice before the decision-making process to find the best option for your individual hair type and needs.

Do you have any further questions about braiding or would you like advice? Please get in touch with us. We will be happy to advise you at any time


About the author
Sandra von Gneisenau - Managing Director & Stylist

Sandra von Gneisenau

Sandra, the founder of Sandra von Gneisenau Salon, sees professional expertise with a special flair for the individual as one of the core aspects of the trade in her role as managing director and stylist. Early in her career, she acquired her master's degree and took on management positions in the exclusive salons in Munich. Her work with clients from Germany and abroad has shaped her understanding of quality and customer focus. Her clients include national and international celebrities, including well-known personalities from film, television, social media and public life, who come to her for her expertise, discretion and confidence in her abilities. Her training and practical experience enable her to work at the highest level and to precisely grasp and implement her clients' wishes. In her articles, she offers deep insights into her professional expertise and her experiences with a wide range of clients, which makes her a sound consultant in the field of beauty and personal style development.

More information about Sandra and her career can be found here
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