Machine weft hair extensions are a popular method for adding volume and length to your hair. They come in a variety of hair types, textures, and colors, allowing for a natural and seamless blend with your natural hair. This article explores what machine weft extensions are and how they are applied.
What are Machine Weft Hair Extensions?
Machine weft hair extensions consist of strands of hair sewn onto a thin weft, typically made of fabric. The hair used can be real human hair or synthetic fibers, with human hair extensions being the more expensive and higher quality option.
There are two main types of weft extensions:
- Machine wefts: These wefts are created by machines that efficiently sew the hair strands onto the weft material.
- Hand-tied wefts: This is a more meticulous process where individual strands of hair are hand-tied to the weft, resulting in a thinner and more undetectable weft.
Machine wefts are generally more affordable than hand-tied wefts. However, they may be slightly thicker and more noticeable, especially on fine hair.
How Machine Weft Extensions Are Applied
Having machine weft extensions applied is a process best left to a professional hairstylist. Here's a general overview of the steps involved:
- Consultation: The stylist will discuss your desired outcome, hair type, and budget to recommend the most suitable weft type, hair quality, and number of wefts.
- Hair Preparation: Your hair will be washed and conditioned to remove any product buildup that might affect the bonding process.
- Weft Placement: The stylist will braid or cornrow your hair to create a foundation for the wefts. They will then position the wefts at specific points on your head, ensuring they lay flat and blend seamlessly with your hair.
- Attachment: There are several methods for attaching machine wefts, with sewing and bonding being the most common.
- Sewing: The stylist braids or cornrows your hair in a way that incorporates the weft. Thread is then used to sew the weft onto the braid, essentially stitching the weft into your hair.
- Bonding: This method uses a keratin adhesive to attach the weft to your hair near the braid or cornrow. Heat is applied to activate the adhesive and create a strong bond.
- Cutting and Styling: Once all the wefts are secured, the stylist will cut and style your hair to blend the extensions seamlessly with your natural hair.
Aftercare for Machine Weft Extensions
Following proper aftercare is crucial for maintaining the quality of your extensions and ensuring they last as long as possible. Here are some aftercare tips:
- Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner for hair extensions.
- Brush your hair gently, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots.
- Avoid tight hairstyles like ponytails or buns that put tension on the wefts.
- Be mindful when using heat styling tools and avoid applying excessive heat directly on the wefts.
With proper care, machine weft extensions can last for several months, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of longer, fuller hair.
