Sew In Extensions How to
Wear & Remove Them Properly for Healthy, Beautiful Results
Summary:
Sew-in extensions1 offer a durable solution for adding length and volume, but their success hinges on proper application and removal to protect your natural hair. As noted by experts in Allure, “A sew-in is only as good as its foundation2,” emphasizing the critical importance of proper braiding and installation. Furthermore, consistent with advice from Byrdie, safe removal is paramount: “The key is patience—never rush or force wefts out, as this is a primary cause of hair loss and breakage.”
Key Takeaways:
For healthy, beautiful sew-in extensions, remember these three essential rules:
Foundation First: Always install on clean, neatly braided hair using only high-quality wefts.
Safe Removal: Never pull or tug extensions out. Always carefully cut the stitching thread first.
Hair Recovery: Deep condition after removal and rest your scalp before reinstalling.
Sew In Extensions: How to Wear & Remove Them Properly for Healthy, Beautiful Results
Sew in extensions are a semi-permanent hair enhancement method that provides long-lasting length and volume. Unlike clip-ins, they require professional installation and careful removal to maintain healthy hair. This guide focuses on how to wear and remove sew in extensions correctly for the best results.
Sew In Extensions How to Wear
Wash & Detangle Hair: Start with clean, dry hair to ensure a secure foundation. Gently detangle from ends to roots.
Braid the Base: Cornrows should be neat, flat, and tight enough to support the wefts without causing tension.
Choose Quality Wefts: Use durable, high-quality human hair extensions for a natural look and longevity.
Start at the Nape: Begin stitching the wefts horizontally along the braids, moving upward.
Use Strong Thread: A curved needle and nylon/polyester thread provide a secure hold.
Stitch Tightly but Gently: Avoid pulling too hard—excess tension can lead to breakage.
Leave Out Some Hair: Keep a small section of natural hair at the front and top for blending.
Flat Iron or Curl: Blend the leave-out hair with the extensions for a seamless look.
Lightly Tease for Volume (Optional): If needed, add slight teasing at the roots for extra fullness.

Sew In Extensions How to Remove
Use small scissors or a seam ripper to carefully cut the thread.
Never pull or tug—this can damage both the extensions and your natural hair.
Once the thread is cut, slowly slide the wefts out.
If thread is tangled, carefully snip it instead of forcing the weft free.
Wash & Condition: Use a moisturizing shampoo and deep conditioner to restore hydration.
Wash & Condition: Use a moisturizing shampoo and deep conditioner to restore hydration.
Give Your Hair a Break: Avoid reinstalling extensions immediately to let your scalp recover.

Key Tips for Wearing & Removing
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Final Thoughts
Knowing sew in extensions how to wear and remove properly ensures a flawless look while protecting your natural hair. Follow these steps for a seamless installation and safe removal process. When in doubt, consult a professional stylist for the best results!
Note:
- A semi-permanent method of hair enhancement where wefts of hair are stitched by hand onto a foundation of tightly braided natural hair to add length, volume, and/or color. ↩︎
- The network of braids (typically cornrows) created from one’s natural hair, which serves as the anchor and support structure for sewing the extension wefts. ↩︎
- A form of hair loss caused by prolonged or excessive tension on the hair follicles. In the context of sew-ins, it can result from braids that are too tight or wefts that are sewn with excessive tension. ↩︎