There are tons of hair extension and weave application methods out there, but here are the most popular:
FULL WEAVE
Popular with coarser type hair, all your natural hair is braided into cornrows against your scalp to create a base.
Wefts of hair are sewn onto the braids. A net can be sewed over top so there is less stress on the braids.
LASTS: 1-3 months
AVG PRICE: $200-$600
PROS:
* Good for a complete change in hair color & texture because all your natural hair is hidden
* It's a good protective way to grow out your hair
* No chemicals are needed
CONS:
* Scalp gets itchy
* May feel bulky, takes awhile to get used to
* Requires time for proper care because it's difficult to shampoo and moisturize
* Your head could start to stink - Fungus and bacteria will settle on the braids if not dried completely after being
washed
* Can hurt and cause damage if braids are too tight
* Requires patience and care during removal
* Not as suitable for fine hair as the cornrows can slip
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PARTIAL WEAVE
Some of your natural hair is braided against scalp. About 2 to 5 cornrows.
Wefts of hair are then sewn onto these tracks. (The extension hair matches your own texture because some natural
hair is left out.)
LASTS: 1-2 months
AVG PRICE: $200-$400
PROS:
* Usually less expensive than a full weave
* Less bulky and itchy than a full weave
CONS:
* The extension hair must match your own hair
* Braids can loosen if not done correctly
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MALAYSIAN WEAVE, or BRAIDLESS SEW-IN
A newer weave method where thread and a small amount of natural hair are used to create a track (similar to a
braid, but less bulky and very flat.)
The wefts of hair are sewn onto these "tracks".
LASTS: 1-2 months
AVG PRICE: $600-$1800
PROS:
* Good for all hair types
* Good for people with short hair (1/2 inch) because no braids are necessary
* Produces a most flat and undectectable weave
* No chemicals, lightweight
* Less time in the stylist's chair
CONS:
* Can be expensive
* Stylist needs to be experienced, or else weave won't stay secure
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CUSTOM HAIR INTEGRATIONS
A custom one piece unit that looks a bit like a wig, is created to your head measurements. It can cover your whole head if necessary. Some of
your own hair goes through large holes in the unit which allows your scalp to breathe, and prevents buildup of dirt
and oil. You can have a normal shampoo and conditioning routine as before.
LASTS: Tightening required every 2 months - The integration hairpiece last up to 2 years
PROS:
* Great for alopecia clients
CONS:
* Can be expensive
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STRAND BY STRAND METHODS
Strands of your own hair are attached to strands of extension hair to give length and volume. (There are many kinds
of attachments such as glue, keratin, metallic cylinders, etc.)
Examples of brands are "Great Lengths", "HairLocs", "HairDreams", "SoCap", "Cinderella", "EuroLocs"
LASTS: 3-6 months (but you really shouldn't have them in for more than 3 months!)
AVG PRICE: $500-$2000 (depends on hair quality, the stylist, the method used etc.)
PROS:
* Looks most natural and free flowing when done correctly
* No bulky feeling
* Scalp can breathe
* Many "updo" styling options
* Undetectable when done correctly
CONS:
* The extension hair should match your hair's texture or it won't blend correctly
* Hair should be fairly healthy before using this method
* Can be quite expensive
* Removal can take a long time (depending on the attachment method)
* Damage can occur depending on the stylist proficiency, the attachment used and removal method
* Can be messy if not done correctly
* Will look straggly depending on the hair quality, the amount of hair put in, and the blending trim
View my Before and Afters here (Kelowna, BC, Canada)