How To Protect Your Hair Before A Hair Weave Install
Hair weaving offers a convenient way to transform your look, without the risk of causing heat or color damage to your hair. However, just because your natural hair is tucked away, it does not mean that you do not need to care for it. Particularly when it comes to the period just before the installation, there are some steps you want to take to minimize the risk of damage to your natural hair.
Minimize Tension Styles
In the weeks leading up to your hair weave installation, it might be a good idea to minimize the application of any tension styles. High tension styles, such as cornrows or tight ponytails, put a strain on your hair strands and leave them susceptible to damage. If you follow this hairstyle with a hair weave application that involves a sew-in, you will only extend the amount of strain on your strands.
Avoid Chemical Applications
You also want to save color or perm applications for another time. Anytime you put a chemical on your hair, you strip the hair fiber of some of its natural protective layers. Less protection always means a greater risk for damage, especially if you are not regularly moisturizing and conditioning the hair. Since your hair will be tucked away under the install, it will be impossible to perform these tasks, which makes the risk for damage even greater.
Deep Cleanse and Condition
Do yourself a favor and perform a deep cleanse and condition just before your install. A deep cleanse of the scalp removes bacteria and product buildup that could cause your scalp to itch. Since you may not be able to access your scalp under the hair weave, any product buildup could create a nightmare. The conditioner will give your hair an extra dose of moisture to help keep it protected before the install.
Rely on a Professional Install
Resist the urge to install the hair weave yourself or to allow someone inexperienced to do so. You always want to visit a professional. No matter what method you use, there are risks if you do not install the hair weave correctly. Any issues could cause your hair to break at the ends or fall out from the root. Let a professional install the hair weave for you and determine which type of install method is best based on the texture and health of your hair.
Keep all of these tips in mind as you prepare for your hair weave install to ensure your hair remains beautiful and healthy.