Pros and Cons of Sew-in Hair Extensions

All About Sew-In Hair Extensions

Sew-in hair extensions are a popular choice when people want to add more thickness or cover hair loss. This technique involves sewing weave hair to your natural hair with a curved needle and thin thread.

There are two types of sew-in hair extensions: synthetic and real human hair. While synthetic sew-in is chosen because of its cheap price, real human hair sew-in is chosen because of its longevity and natural-looking characteristics. Because of the high price, people often consider it carefully before spending their money on real human hair. In this article, I will discuss the pros and cons of sew-in hair extensions made of 100% human hair.

Pros of Sew-in Hair Extensions

1. Sew-in hair extensions are much more affordable than others

The cost of sew-in hair extensions depends on many factors like installation cost, hair extensions cost,... However, the average annual cost of using sew-in hair extensions is around $1350, much more economical compared with tape-in and fusion hair extensions. 

In addition, sew-in hair extensions do not require maintenance or reapplication as frequently as tape-in or fusion methods, making them a more economical option. Click here to refer the average price for sew-in hair extensions. 

2. Sew-in hair extensions are suitable for short hair 

The other reason why sew-in hair extensions have become a popular choice for people with short natural hair is that sew-in extensions are able to add a natural and seamless look for short hair.

When you buy high quality sew-in weaves, the weft line is really thin and it doesn’t require very long hair to cover. With the proper installation process, sew-in extensions can blend very well with short hair.

3. Sew-in hair extensions hold firmly to your natural hair

If you get your sew-in extensions installed by a skillful hairstylist, they will hold really firmly to your natural hair. Therefore, it is very unlikely for the hair extensions to slip or slide off your hair.

If you are an active or sporty woman, sew-in hair extensions will suit you. You can use sew-in hair extensions for a long time without worrying about it slipping out or loosening.

4. Sew-in hair extensions will cause less damage

Many popular extension methods, such as fusion or bonded extensions, involve the use of heat or glue, which can pose risks to both your natural hair and scalp. Heat application, often used in fusion or bonded extensions, can weaken and damage the natural hair strands, leading to breakage and potential long-term harm.

With sew-in hair extensions, you don’t need to use heat tools, glue and toxic chemicals. All you need to have your sew-in hair extensions is thread and a curved needle. Although you may feel stretchy and itchy in the first week, sew-in hair extensions won’t cause serious damage to your hair and  scalp.

5. Sew-in hair extensions are very easy to care

With sew-in extensions, you can easily care for your hair by following a few simple guidelines. Once installed, sew-in extensions require minimal maintenance, making them a convenient choice for those with busy lifestyles.

6. You can reuse sew-in hair extensions several times

The reusability sets sew-in extensions apart from other types of hair extensions. With proper care and maintenance, sew-in extensions can be taken off and reinstalled multiple times. The ability to reuse sew-in extensions not only makes them a cost-effective choice in the long run but also allows for flexibility in styling options.

>> Read more: How long sew-in hair extensions will last?

Cons of Sew-in Hair Extensions

1. Professional installation is required

Unlike clip-in extensions and tape-in extensions, sew-ins need to be professionally installed. While this ensures a more secure and natural-looking outcome, it will increase the initial cost. The need for professional installation can be a limitation for some individuals because not everyone has easy access to a skilled hairdresser experienced in sew-in installations.

>> Read more: How to sew in hair extensions <<

2. Sew-in hair extensions can cause discomfort in the first week

One potential downside of sew-in hair extensions is the discomfort that some individuals experience during the initial week after installation. The tightness of the braids or rings, which is necessary to secure the extensions, can cause tension on the scalp, leading to discomfort. This discomfort can manifest as itching and even headaches.

3. Sew-in hair extensions can cause build-up

When you have sew-in hair extensions, your natural hair stays braided. As a result, a lot of bacteria and build-up from products can accumulate in the braids, causing a lot of discomfort. Therefore, you need to wash your hair regularly and thoroughly for a good amount of time so that the shampoo can penetrate the braids and reach the scalp to get rid of all the dirt and build-up.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long do sew-in hair extensions typically last?

Sew-in hair extensions have a variable lifespan influenced by multiple factors, such as the quality of the extensions, the expertise of the hairdresser during installation, and most importantly, your proper care and maintenance. On average, you can expect sew-in hair extensions to last between 6 to 12 weeks before requiring removal and reinstallation.

2. How can one differentiate between high-quality and low-quality sew-in hair extensions on the market?

Offer guidance on what to look for when determining the quality of sew-in extensions, such as the type of hair used and the overall craftsmanship.

3. Where to buy high-quality sew-in hair extensions?

As I mentioned, the quality of hair extensions significantly impacts their longevity and overall performance. Choosing a reliable hair supplier can be challenging, especially for first-time buyers. I highly recommend purchasing hair extensions from established suppliers in the market, such as Bellami, Zala, or Mic Hair.

Final Thoughts

Sew-in hair extensions have plenty of benefits, making them a popular choice for those who want longer and thicker hair. They are affordable, work well for short hair, and give a natural and seamless appearance. Moreover, sew-in extensions minimize damage to your hair and require minimal upkeep.

However, professional installation is a must, availability may be limited, achieving a natural look with thin hair can be difficult, and there might be initial discomfort. In summary, sew-in extensions have their own pros and cons, you should consider whether they are worth it to you.

To ensure you get the most out of sew-in hair extensions, it's crucial to properly care for them and choose high-quality extensions. Established suppliers like Bellami, Zala, or Mic Hair can be trusted sources for purchasing high-quality sew-in hair extensions.

>> Read more: How to tighten sew-in hair extensions at home <<