Women pride themselves on their appearance. Some like to rock our natural hair, for those of us who prefer weaves, this requires utmost care going all-natural. If you don’t take care of your weaves, they would embarrass you. Here are ways to make the best of your weaves:
1. Shampoo regularly
Just like you would treat your own head of hair, wash your weaves. Oils and dirt cause build-up which is a no-go. Some ladies prefer to co-wash (using only conditioner), which is perfectly fine but remember you still want to use a clarifying shampoo that will remove any and all debris. If you wash your hair weekly you can switch in between a regular shampoo and co-washing.
2. Condition your hair
It is important that you condition your weave, especially with curly tresses. Conditioning helps with detangling, define curl pattern, and adds moisture to the hair (that was stripped by the clarifying shampoo if you did not co-wash).
3. Dry your weaves thoroughly
You can opt for a wash and go but it’s better to be safe than sorry. We recommend sitting under a dryer for at least 1 to 2 hours to make sure your entire hair is dry (even the braids). If your braids are not dry you run the risk of having an ungodly mildew smell to your hair as well as unsightly molding, which will definitely damage your hair.
4. Sleep with satin scarf or pillow
This is the best way to protect your hair at night. We actually recommend you use both the satin scarf and pillow (definitely those who wake up with their scarf on the floor). These satin items help your hair retain moisture and keep your tresses soft, silky and laid.
5. Use minimum heat
The purpose of wearing a weave is mostly to give your natural hair a break, so do just that. If you wear your extensions straight, wrap them with a few bobby pins at night to avoid using heat daily, and if you opt for voluminous curls pin curls are your solution. Only use heat if you must and that goes for your leave out too!
6. Don’t drench your weaves in products
In the case of weaves and products, we do not believe the more the merrier. Using numerous products will leave your strands stringy and greasy and cause build up. A dime-sized amount of oil here and there will do.
7. Take care of your edges
Whether it’s fly-aways or untamed edges, use a dab of light holding pomade on your edges that will leave them smooth. Avoid products with alcohol, as they are a drying agent.
8. Give your hair a break
Sometimes you gotta switch it up. Wear your own hair for a few weeks and give your scalp some time to breathe, this allows less stress on your hair from the braids. And most importantly, enjoy the growth results from properly taking care of your weave.