Hair weaves have become very popular over the years. They make it easy to create a variety of makeovers, and use as protective hairstyles. They are so popular that manufacturers are constantly creating different styles that some could say are putting hairstylists out of business. Below are several techniques used when applying hair weave. Some are simple and only take a matter of minutes to adjust, and some require professional services to avoid hair damage.
1a. Wigs: Wigs are a quick and easy way to give yourself a hair makeover. What you need to bear in mind is that the cheaper the wig the more un-natural it will look. You don’t need to spend a lot of money but it is worth investing in a wig that you can use from time to time.
1b. Lace Front Wigs: Lace Front wigs have become very popular. They work well with short thin hair, damaged hair, hair that needs a rest or a complete makeover. Over the years, you’ve probably seen just about every celebrity you can name, wearing one.
2. Hair Pieces: There are lots of different hair pieces from pony tails to rear hair attachments in all different shades, curly, straight or plaits. There are also specialist hair pieces for thinning hair that can help disguise any problems. The thing to bear in mind is that hair pieces are not often very secure and could make you feel a little uncomfortable. Some of the ponytail pieces can be securely fixed, so if you want a demure look go for a ponytail.
3. Integrated (Traditional Sew-In) Weaves: This is when wefts of hair is sewn onto a fine cornrow which is then hide by the bulk of your hair on top. It is a popular technique because if done correctly it can look very natural and offer up a robust and secure hair enhancement solution. If you look after the hair you can reuse it when you go back to have it re tightened.
4. Pre-Tips: This is small pieces of hair that have been pre bonded together. They can be added in sections all over the head to aid thickening, give the impression of highlights or lowlight and length. Pre-tips can be applied using heat, micro rings or even small elastic bands. Be aware that they have to be professionally removed so as not to damage your own hair.
5. Strand by Strand (glue gun): This is when hot bond is used to bond small sections of hair to the recipients own hair. It was a very popular technique in 6 years ago, but requires professional application and removal by a qualified technician. Can give the appearance of flyaway hair that you could somewhat run your fingers through.
6) Clip In Hair Extensions: These are now very popular. They are best used for lengthening mid should length hair. If the hair is shorter they don’t sit very well because they can be a little bulky in appearance. They don’t offer up much security unless they have been professionally fitted. This is when a very small cornrow is done and the clips are slipped through for much added security. Great for an evening occasion but not advisable for long term wear.
7) Net Weave: This technique is used when the client wants to partially extend just a section of their hair or if the client suffers from patchy alopecia. This technique is suitable for 2-4 months wear.
8) Hook and Latch: This technique does not use any glues or threads. Hair is braided and extensions are applied using a crochet technique.
9) 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. The hair is applied in one of two ways. Either directly to the head, or by using a stocking cap.
