Curious About Sew-In Extensions? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
Curious About Sew-In Extensions? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
Hair extensions have become one of the most in-demand salon services in Denver, especially among clients looking for instant volume, length, or even color without committing to chemical treatments. Methods like tape-in hair extensions Denver, keratin bond extensions, and hand-tied weft (sew-in) extensions are now household terms. But one method that still sparks curiosity—and sometimes confusion—is the sew-in, also known as a weave. Unlike other extensions, sew-ins require braiding the natural hair tightly against the scalp before attaching wefts of hair with needle and thread. While this technique has been used for decades, it’s important to understand exactly how it works, how long it lasts, and whether it’s the right choice for your hair type.
What Are Sew-In (Weave) Extensions?
Sew-in extensions are created using wefts of hair, which are strips of extension hair stitched together along a reinforced seam. These wefts can range in size from a few inches to a full foot in width. Shorter pieces are usually applied to the sides of the head to fill in smaller areas, while longer wefts are applied at the back of the head in a curved, horseshoe-like pattern to build length and fullness.
This technique is different from clip-in hair extensions Denver, which can be taken in and out daily, or bonded extensions, which fuse individual strands to your natural hair. Sew-ins rely entirely on a braided foundation. Without these braids, the wefts would have no anchor. Because of this, sew-ins are considered a more traditional and less customizable method compared to today’s modern extension systems.
How Sew-In Extensions Are Applied and Removed
The application of sew-in extensions starts with creating a series of tight braids across the scalp. These braids, often called cornrows or Dutch braids, use only the client’s natural hair. Once the braids are secured, the stylist uses a curved hair needle and professional extension thread to sew the weft onto the braid row by row. The process can take several hours, depending on the amount of hair being applied and the complexity of the braid pattern.
Removal requires precision and care. Since the wefts are sewn directly onto braids, the stylist must carefully cut the thread with scissors and unravel it from the braid without snipping the client’s natural hair. This is one reason sew-ins should never be attempted at home. Professional removal prevents damage and helps preserve the natural hair’s health.
By contrast, other methods like hand-tied extensions Denver or micro bead extensions Denver are faster to remove and easier to reinstall, which is why they’ve become so popular for clients who want both flexibility and safety.
Professional stylist applying sew-in extensions in Denver using weft and braid technique.
How Long Do Sew-In Extensions Last?
Sew-in extensions are not designed for long-term wear. On average, clients with fine or medium-textured hair can only wear sew-ins for about two weeks before the braids begin to loosen. Clients with coarse, thick hair may stretch the wear time to three or four weeks, but even then, the braids will eventually loosen as natural hair grows out.
It’s also worth noting that sew-ins require regular maintenance. Each time the hair grows out, the wefts must be removed, the hair re-braided, and the extensions sewn back in again. While the wefts themselves can sometimes be reused, the installation process is labor-intensive and frequent. In comparison, keratin bonded extensions Denver can last up to 4–6 months with proper care, making them a better investment for clients who want long-lasting results.
Pros and Cons of Sew-In Extensions
The biggest advantage of sew-in extensions is that they can create an immediate and dramatic transformation, particularly for individuals with naturally coarse or textured hair. Sew-ins can add significant volume and length, and some clients choose them for protective styling because the natural hair is braided and tucked away.
However, sew-ins also have considerable drawbacks. The tight braiding required for installation can cause scalp tension, soreness, and even headaches. Over time, this tension may contribute to hair thinning or breakage at the root. The bulk of the weft can also feel noticeable when touching the scalp, which limits styling versatility. Unlike tape-in hair extensions in Denver or keratin bonded extensions Denver, sew-ins cannot be adjusted in weight or density, making them less customizable for individual hair needs.
Who Should Avoid Sew-In Extensions?
Not every hair type is suited for sew-in extensions. In fact, they are often discouraged for clients with fine or fragile hair. Because the braids must be tight to hold the weight of the wefts, sew-ins can place too much stress on delicate strands, leading to breakage and even permanent thinning. Additionally, the pulling effect of the braids can irritate sensitive scalps.
At Ergun Tercan European Salon, we recommend avoiding sew-ins if you have thin or compromised hair. Instead, we focus on extension methods that allow us to customize weight, placement, and density so the extensions work in harmony with your natural hair rather than against it.
Aftercare and Maintenance Tips
No matter which extension method you choose, proper aftercare makes all the difference. Always brush extensions gently with a loop or extension-specific brush to prevent tugging. Wash with sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, and avoid applying heavy oils or conditioners near the bonds, tapes, or attachment points. Regular maintenance appointments every 6–8 weeks are essential to protect your natural hair and keep your extensions looking flawless.
Expert Care Tips to Extend Their Lifespan
Do:
Schedule regular salon visits for repositioning.
Use protein-rich shampoo & conditioner (like Kérastase).
Sleep on a silk pillowcase or wrap your hair at night.
Always apply heat protectant before styling.
Use a leave-in conditioner (avoiding the braid/weft area).
Wear a swim cap in chlorinated or salt water.
Style loosely for workouts and refresh with a dry shampoo.
Don’t:
Wash your hair within 48 hours of installation.
Overuse heat styling tools.
Use silicone-based products (they weaken wefts).
Overwash—extensions need breaks between washes.
Expose hair to harsh sun, chlorine, or hard water without protection.
Skip maintenance appointments—this can cause breakage.
Conclusion
Sew-in or Hand Tied Weft extensions can create a bold, short-term change, but they’re not ideal for most clients—especially those with fine hair or sensitive scalps. At Ergun Tercan European Salon in Denver, we believe in providing safer, more innovative alternatives like hand-tied, tape-in, and keratin bond extensions. These methods are healthier for your natural hair, customizable to your lifestyle, and deliver natural, lasting results.
If you’re considering extensions, let our expert stylists guide you toward the best option for your hair type. Book your personalized consultation today at Ergun Tercan European Salon in Denver, CO.
Related Reads
If you enjoyed our Sew in or Weft Extensions blog, you may also like these:
Protecting Hair Extensions from Heat Styling in Denver – Learn the safest ways to style extensions without causing dryness or breakage.
Do Extensions Damage Real Hair? – We break down the myths and facts behind hair extensions and natural hair health.
Hair Extensions for Short Hair: A Quick Guide – Discover how extensions can add length and volume even on shorter styles.
Hair Extension Glossary: Every Term You Should Know Before Booking – Decode extension jargon so you can feel confident at your consultation.
How to Wash Keratin Bonded Hair Extensions – Step-by-step washing tips to keep your extensions clean, soft, and long-lasting.