Understanding Weave Hair: The Ultimate Guide to Types, Application and Care

We live in an era of fleeting trends, where, as soon as we grasp one fully—we find it starting to fade and be replaced by another.

It’s impossible to follow each trend and keep up with everything going around. But you can choose what suits your style the best and embrace your own unique vogue.

Hairstyles are one such segment where you can constantly reinvent yourself and try new looks. But what about the undue damage your hair might suffer in the process?

Don’t worry, your hair won’t be getting hurt!

Because look around—we live in a world full of smart technologies. Modern-day beauty and fashion not only thrives on innovations but also ensures that you can access them easily.

Let’s say you want to have sleek bobs today, but a month later, you may be inclined more towards sporting long cascading locks. Now, you can’t grow your hair out that fast. This is where the idea of using weave hair comes in the picture.

What is a weave, again? A hair extension, technically. It helps make your hair look long, lusciously thick, or both. Better than a long-term commitment anyday, especially when you’re uncertain about a hairstyle.

With weave hair, you can always explore your chances, and if it doesn’t impress—you can do away with it and spring back to your natural self or, maybe, have a go at a different style altogether.

This ultimate guide will take you through everything you need to know about weave hair—from the various types available and application techniques to styling options and effective tips.

Understanding briefly: What is a weave?

Weave hair refers to a type of hair extension that is sewn, glued, or otherwise attached to natural hair, often using a base such as braids or a wig cap.

Want to add some length, volume or texture to your natural hair, consider buying weaves because they offer versatile styling options. The best part is—you don’t have to permanently alter your real hair or put yourself through any hair treatment angst.

Tracing the history of weave hair brings us in close encounter with one of the most ancient civilizations to ever exist, i.e. the Egyptians. Do you know that both men and women adorned themselves with extravagant wigs and hair pieces back then?

Studies show that it was a practice meant to protect natural hair against sunlight, to signify status in socially categorized structure, and to elevate their visual appeal.

Overtime, weave hair has evolved into a symbol of self-expression, especially in African-American communities. An old market study (2014) by MINTEL reported 44% of Black women bought a wig, weave, or hair extension in the previous 12 months and another 33% were planning to have them in the upcoming 12 months.

Women, regardless of cultural identity, are welcome to try weaves. This fosters creativity, celebrate individuality, and of course, maintain healthy hair.

How is weave hair different from clip-in or tape-in extensions?

Different types of weave hair

1. Human hair weaves

Crafted from authentic human hair, these weaves offer a natural texture and feel. Popular for versatile styling options—they can be dyed, curled, or straightened just like your own hair.

Also Read: Why invest in raw Indian hair?

2. Synthetic hair weaves

They’re an affordable alternative to human hair weaves. Made from artificial fibers, synthetic weaves lack the humane feel and texture. 

They arrive pre-styled—which means, the wearer doesn’t have to spend time on application and can achieve the promised look straight out of the package.

Early warning, synthetic weaves also tend to tangle and snap more easily than human hair weaves. Here’s a little what-you-can-do to handle such situations.

• Lightly mist the hair with a mixture of water and a small amount of fabric softener or leave-in conditioner. This reduces friction.
• Then, detangle with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. Start from the ends and work your way upwards to avoid breakage.
• Rinse the weave if necessary. Before you begin with styling, let it first air dry completely.
  

3. Virgin hair weaves

Similar to human hair weaves, they too are made of authentic human hair strands. The only exception is that they’re unprocessed. Meaning—the hair has never been dyed, bleached, or chemically treated. This added benefit makes virgin hair weaves the highest quality option available on the market.

Incredibly durable, these weaves are super-customizable and can be designed to match the user’s preference in color or texture.

4. Remy hair weaves

These hair weaves are specifically known for their cuticle alignment, where all hair strands face the same direction. This internal arrangement reduces tangling and preserves its natural shine.

Remy hair weaves provide sleek and polished looks. They’re exclusively popular among professionals, and a much beloved choice when it comes to high-end styling.

Are you seeking high-quality hair extensions to use regularly? Don’t know where to get them yet? Gemeria Hair can be your ultimate guide and one-shop destination to buy weave hair extensions online. We’ve diverse hair extension collections to offer—all stylish, durable, and made of 100% authentic human hair. Visit now!

How to install weave hair?

Let’s go through some of the most common techniques used for weave hair installation.

1. Sew-in weaves

• Process: It involves braiding the natural hair into cornrows, then sewing the weave tracks onto the braids using a needle and thread.
• Longevity: About 6-8 weeks, with proper care.
• Expert Tip: While you’re making the braids, ensure they are not too tight as this can cause scalp tension and may lead to hair loss or discomfort. We recommend seeking a professional stylist to help you achieve a secure and comfortable fit.
  

2. Glue-in weaves

• Process: In this technique, hair wefts are bonded to the natural hair using a special hair adhesive. Note, you should never apply glue directly to the scalp.
• Longevity: About 1-2 weeks; glue-in weaves are a temporary solution.
• Expert Tip: Buy an adhesive remover to help with smooth detachment of weaves. It also prevents scalp damage. 

3. Quick weaves

• Process: First, cover the natural hair with a protective cap. Then attach weave tracks onto the cap with glue.
• Longevity: About 1-3 weeks; quick weaves are short-term installations.
• Expert Tip: While styling the glued in wefts, use a heat protectant to guard against damage.

4. Bonded weaves

• Process: Much similar to what you did for glue-in weaves, here you use keratin or bonding agents to attach the hair extensions.
• Longevity: About 4-6 weeks, with proper care.
• Expert Tip: Avoid using excessive heat or oil-based products near the bonded areas, as this may induce loosening of the extensions. 

Also Read: Applying and Removing I-Tip Hair Extensions

Benefits of weave hair

• Weave hair allows you to experiment with different hairstyles, lengths, and textures—without altering your natural hair permanently.
• It shields your natural hair from environmental damage and over-styling.
• If you wish to create fuller and longer hairstyles instantly, weave hair can become your magic wand—-and the two of you can create pleasant memories together.
• Once installed, it requires minimal daily styling—saving time and effort.
• With proper care, it can last for weeks. This makes it a long-lasting and cost-effective choice for hair enhancements.
  

Lastly, caring for weave hair: What steps to follow?

Washing tips for gentle care

• Before washing, gently detangle your weave with a wide-tooth comb.
• The duo of lukewarm water and sulfate-free shampoo works for all types of hair weaves. It guarantees cleaning with no stripping of moisture.
• Washing your weave every 7-10 days is a must (if you’re wearing it frequently). This removes build-up and preserves texture.
• Don’t scrub your hair weaves aggressively. 
• Wash in a downward motion to prevent tangling. 
  

Products to use for weave maintenance

• To reap the best benefits of weave hair and keep it soft and shiny for a long time—use lightweight leave-in conditioners, heat protectants, and nourishing oils.
• Also, consider products like argan oil or serums designed for weave extensions.
• Stay from heavy products such as—castor or other mineral oils, greasy pomades or waxes, shea-butter heavy formulations, serums or sprays with non-water-soluble silicones, gels or mousses with dense polymers, etc. They’re known to weigh down the hair or cause build-up at the roots.
  

Styling tips to boost weave’s lifespan

• Say no to excessive heat styling as this “pan-fries” your weaves, leaving them dry and far away from their luscious best.
• Flexi-rods and steams are good alternatives to create curls or waves—as there is no direct application of heat to the weave hair.
• If you sleep with your weaves on, wear a silk scarf or bonnet to minimise friction and save its style.
• Switch up your hairstyles to reduce stress on specific sections of the weave. This helps you try new looks and keeps the weave sitting evenly for longer.
  

Proper storage when not in use

• Always clean and thoroughly dry the weave before storing it.
• Place it in a silk or satin bag to eliminate tangling and frizz.
• For clip-in weaves, store them flat or hang them on a special hanger to retain their shape.
• If you’re a connoisseur of weaves and own many colors and textures—you better label them. So that next time when you’ve to prepare yourself for an important office meeting or go to a weekend party—you can quickly identify the right one as per your needs.