Todd NesnickWhen restyling your hair, few alternatives are as dramatic and adaptable as weft hair extensions. Length to volume to added texture, wefts are a great method to take your own hair to the next level without appearing cheap or obvious. As more customers seek damage-free, high-quality solutions for their hair, weft extensions have become a stylist and client favorite.
If you are new to the realm of weft hair extensions or you want to use them in your next hair transformation, then this article is everything that you would like to learn about the types, application, benefits, and maintenance.
What Are Weft Hair Extensions?
Weft hair extensions are collections of hair that have been sewn or bonded on top to form a strip—or “weft”—of hair. The wefts are then attached to the natural hair by a variety of different procedures, depending on the length and thickness desired.
Types of weft extensions include:
Machine Wefts:
Heavier and thicker, for coarse hair types. Best for sew-in use.
Hand-Tied Wefts:
Thin and light, best for fine hair. For maximum comfort and minimum visibility.
Flat Wefts:
Thin edge design to create a flatter, less noticeable appearance.
Top Three Application Methods
Application style will be largely dictated by your lifestyle, hair type, and how long you want to wear the extensions.
Top three application styles:
Sew-In (Braided):
Cornrows wrap around the natural hair, and sew in the weft. Best for thick or curly hair.
Beaded Weft (LA Weave or Braidless Weft):
Mini silicone beads are utilized to fix the weft without braiding. A gentler option with great results.
Glue-In/Adhesive:
Emergency fix best for temporary wear. Less popular because the glue damages.
Clip-In Wefts:
Reusable and removable; ideal for one-time or special occasion use.
Why Choose Weft Hair Extensions?
Weft extensions are in demand because they look natural, are long-lasting, and are versatile. They’re particularly ideal for individuals who desire dramatic styles without the maintenance of repeated clip-ins or risk of glue-ins.
Main benefits are:
Adjustable Volume:
Wefts can be doubled up or layered to create the required amount of fullness.
Versatile Styling:
You can curl, straighten, or braid your hair without displaying extension tracks.
Reusable and Long-Lasting
High-quality human wefts of hair can be reused many times if properly cared for.
Less Stress on Hair:
Techniques such as braidless sew-ins spread the weight evenly, placing less tension on your scalp.
Best Candidates for Weft Extensions
Weft hair extensions can be suitable for most hair types, but some people will get more benefit than others.
Best for:
- Medium to thick hair textures
- People who want permanent hair enhancements
- Clients who desire fuller hair with zero daily maintenance
- Those who style or heat their hair on a regular basis
Fine-haired individuals can need light, hand-tied wefts so that there isn’t tension placed on the natural hairs.
Tips and Care Instructions
Proper care of your weft extensions will extend the life of them and keep your hair healthy.
Care instructions:
- Wash hair no more than 2–3 times weekly
- Clean with sulphate-free, extension-friendly shampoo and condition
- Brush daily using a wide-tooth or loop brush
Don’t pull on roots while drying or styling
Reinstall or reposition your stylist every 6–8 weeks
Last Thoughts
Weft extensions are a permanent solution to having long, luscious, and lush-looking hair that can last for months. Weft extensions have a longer list of method of application and hair type variety meaning there is something available for almost everybody. Proper installation and treatment and wefts do not only bring good looks but confidence—and that is priceless.