Experiencing hair shedding with sew-in weft extensions is quite common. There are several reasons why this might happen:
Normal Shedding: All hair experiences a natural shedding process, whether it's your natural hair or hair extensions. The average person sheds around 50-100 hairs per day, and this hair loss is more noticeable when you have extensions installed.
Tension and Stress: The sewing and installation process of sew-in weft extensions can put some tension on your natural hair. Over time, this tension may lead to hair breakage and shedding.
Improper Installation or Maintenance: If the extensions were not installed correctly or if you haven't been maintaining them properly, it can cause additional stress on your natural hair, leading to more hair loss.
Now, to minimize hair shedding and maintain your sew-in weft extensions effectively, here are some best practices:
Professional Installation: Ensure that a professional stylist with experience in sew-in weft extensions installs them. Proper installation reduces the risk of damage to your natural hair.
Avoid Tension: Make sure the extensions are not sewn too tightly or close to the scalp, as this can cause unnecessary tension and lead to hair breakage.
Gentle Handling: Be gentle when brushing and styling your hair with extensions. Use a wide-tooth comb or a brush specifically designed for hair extensions to minimize tugging and pulling.
Washing and Maintenance: Follow these steps for washing and maintaining your sew-in weft extensions:
a. Washing Frequency: Wash your hair and extensions every 1-2 weeks or as needed. Avoid washing too frequently, as it can dry out your scalp and natural hair.
b. Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Use a sulfate-free and mild shampoo to cleanse your scalp and extensions. Avoid shampoos with harsh chemicals that can damage the extensions and your natural hair.
c. Conditioning: After shampooing, apply a good quality conditioner to the lengths of your extensions and the tips of your natural hair. Avoid applying conditioner to the scalp or roots to prevent slippage of the extensions.
d. Drying: Gently squeeze out excess water from your hair and pat it dry with a soft towel. Avoid rubbing vigorously, as it can cause tangling and shedding.
e. Styling Products: Use hair products that are compatible with both your natural hair and extensions. Avoid using heavy or greasy products that can weigh down the extensions and cause build-up.
f. Night Care: Tie your hair in a loose braid or pineapple to prevent tangling while sleeping.
Regular Maintenance: Visit your stylist regularly for maintenance. They can adjust the sew-in wefts as your natural hair grows to minimize tension and potential damage.
Remember, hair shedding is a normal part of the hair growth cycle, and it's essential to differentiate between normal shedding and excessive shedding due to improper care or installation. If you are concerned about the amount of hair loss, it's best to consult a professional stylist for a personalized assessment and advice.