Unweaving the Mystery: How to Take a Sew In Out Like a Pro

AvatarByJill Nammar Sewing

Are you tired of your current sew-in hairstyle and ready for a change? Or maybe you’re new to the world of hair extensions and wondering how to properly remove them. Look no further, as we break down the step-by-step process of taking out a sew-in. From tools and products needed, to pro-tips for avoiding damage, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and discover how easy it can be to remove a sew-in and switch up your look!

What is a Sew In?

A sew in is a type of hair extension method where wefts of hair are attached to your natural hair using a needle and thread. This technique creates a secure and natural-looking hairstyle that can last for several weeks.

The process involves braiding your natural hair into cornrows on your scalp, then securing the wefts of hair onto the braids using a needle and thread. This not only provides extra length and volume to your hair, but it also gives you the freedom to style your hair as desired without worrying about damaging your natural locks.

Sew ins are popular among women of all ethnicities and hair types, as they offer versatility, protection for natural hair, and the ability to change up hairstyles without the commitment of permanent extensions.

How Long Does a Sew In Last?

The duration of a sew in depends on several factors such as the type of hair used, the installation process, and how well you take care of it. On average, a sew in can last anywhere from 4-8 weeks.

If you opt for human hair extensions instead of synthetic ones, your sew in can last longer. Human hair extensions can be treated just like your natural hair and can last up to 8 weeks with proper care. On the other hand, synthetic extensions have a shorter lifespan of 4-6 weeks.

Another factor that affects how long a sew in lasts is the installation process. If done correctly by an experienced stylist, your sew-in will be more secure and last longer than one that is not installed properly.

Lastly, taking good care of your sew-in will ensure its longevity. Use products specifically designed for extensions, avoid heat styling too often, and wrap or tie it up at night to prevent tangling.

How Do You Take Out A Sew In?

When it’s time to take out your sew in, it’s important to do it gently and properly to avoid damaging your natural hair. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Prepare your supplies: You will need a pair of scissors, seam ripper, detangling comb, and a spray bottle filled with water or a hair extension remover solution.

2. Cut the thread: Using the scissors, carefully cut the thread attached to your braids. Be cautious not to cut any of your natural hair.

3. Remove the wefts: Once the thread is cut, you can remove the wefts of hair from your braids. Start at the nape of your neck and work upwards towards the crown of your head.

4. Detangle: Use a detangling comb or brush to gently remove any tangles in your natural hair resulting from the sew in.

5. Take out the braids: Once all the wefts are removed, take out each braid by unwinding it from your natural hair.

6. Use a seam ripper: If there are any stubborn extensions that won’t come out or have been braided too tightly, use a seam ripper to carefully loosen them without causing damage.

7. Wash and condition: After all extensions have been removed, wash and condition your natural hair to remove any build-up from products used during the sew in.

How Do You Take Care Of Your Hair After A Sew In?

It’s essential to give your hair some TLC after taking out a sew in as it has been tightly styled for a long period. Here are some tips for post-sew-in care:

1. Give it a break: Your natural hair needs time to breathe and recover from being styled for weeks on end. Avoid immediately putting another style on top of it after taking out a sew in.

2. Deep condition: A deep conditioning treatment will restore any lost moisture and nutrients in your natural hair. Use a protein treatment for added strength.

3. Avoid heat styling: Give your hair a break from heat styling tools to prevent further damage.

4. Trim split ends: If your natural hair has any split ends, it’s best to trim them off after removing the extensions to keep your hair healthy.

5. Maintain a good hair care routine: Continue with a proper hair care routine that includes regular washing, conditioning, and moisturizing. This will promote healthy hair growth and maintain your natural hair’s strength.

Sew ins are a popular and versatile hairstyle option that can provide added length, volume, and different styling options without damaging your natural hair. Knowing how to properly install and remove them, as well as taking care of your natural hair afterwards, is crucial for maintaining healthy locks. With proper care, you can enjoy the look of sew ins for several weeks without any adverse effects on your natural tresses.

What is a Sew In?

A sew in, also known as a sew-in weave, is a type of hair extension method used to add length and volume to natural hair. It involves sewing tracks of hair extensions onto braided sections of the natural hair using a needle and thread. This method is popular among people with all types of hair, whether it’s short, long, straight, or curly.

There are two main types of sew in methods: the traditional sew in and the vixen sew in. The traditional sew in involves braiding the natural hair into cornrows and then sewing the tracks onto the braids horizontally. The vixen sew in, on the other hand, involves creating four sections on the head and sewing tracks onto each section individually, providing more versatility with styling.

How to Prepare Your Hair for a Sew In

Before getting a sew in, it’s important to properly prepare your natural hair. This will ensure that your natural hair stays healthy and that your sew in looks flawless.

The first step is to wash and deep condition your natural hair. This will help to get rid of any product buildup or dirt that may interfere with the attachment of the extensions. You can also do a hot oil treatment to nourish and strengthen your natural hair.

Next, you should detangle your hair thoroughly using a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush. This will make it easier for your stylist to braid your hair without causing any pain or discomfort.

After detangling, it’s recommended to stretch your natural hair using braids or twists rather than blow drying it. This will help prevent heat damage and excessive pulling on your scalp during installation.

Lastly, trim any split ends or damaged pieces of hair. This will ensure that your natural hair blends seamlessly with the extensions.

The Process of Installing a Sew In

So, how do you take a sew in out? First things first, scheduling an appointment with a professional stylist is highly recommended. While it is possible to install a sew in at home, it’s best to leave it to the experts for a seamless and long-lasting result.

The installation process typically starts with braiding the natural hair into cornrows or creating sections for the vixen sew in. The stylist will use a needle and thread to secure the extensions onto your braids or sections.

One of the key factors in achieving a natural-looking sew in is selecting the right hair extensions. They should match your natural hair texture and color for a flawless blend. It’s also important to choose high quality hair extensions that will last and look good throughout the duration of your sew in.

Once all the tracks are sewn in, your stylist may trim and style the extensions to achieve your desired look. This could include cutting layers or blending them seamlessly with your natural hair.

Caring for Your Sew In

To ensure that your sew in lasts and looks good until it’s time to remove it, proper care is essential. Here are some tips for maintaining your sew in:

– Moisturize regularly: Just like with natural hair, keeping your scalp and extensions moisturized is important. Use a light leave-in conditioner or an oil-based moisturizer to keep both your natural hair and extensions hydrated.
– Avoid excessive heat: Too much heat can damage both your natural hair and extensions. Limit the use of heat styling tools and opt for protective styles such as buns or updos.
– Protect while sleeping: Use a satin scarf or bonnet when sleeping to prevent friction between your extensions and pillowcase.
– Detangle gently: Use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush when combing through your sew-in to avoid pulling on the tracks.
– Cleanse regularly: It’s important to keep both your scalp and extensions clean to prevent product buildup. Your stylist will recommend the best products and frequency for washing your sew in.

Removing a Sew In

When it’s time to remove your sew in, it’s best to have it done by a professional. Attempting to remove the extensions or taking them out too forcefully can damage your natural hair.

The process of removing a sew in involves carefully snipping the thread used to secure the extensions onto your braids or sections. Your stylist may also use a suitable hair extension remover or oil-based product to help loosen the tracks before removing them.

After all the tracks are taken out, your natural hair may be slightly matted or tangled. This is normal and can be easily detangled with conditioning and patience.

Sew ins are a great option for adding length and volume to natural hair without causing any damage. With proper preparation, installation, and care, you can rock beautiful sew in styles that will turn heads wherever you go. Just remember to have them removed professionally when the time comes and enjoy your healthy natural hair underneath!

1. How do I prepare my hair before taking out a sew-in?
Before removing your sew-in, make sure to detangle your hair using a wide-tooth comb or brush. This will help prevent any breakage during the removal process. Also, apply some oil or conditioner to the braids before removing them to make it easier and less painful.

2. Can I take out a sew-in by myself or should I go to a professional?
It is recommended to go to a professional stylist for the removal of your sew-in. This will ensure that it is done carefully and efficiently, reducing the risk of damaging your natural hair.

3. How long does it take to remove a sew-in?
The time it takes to remove a sew-in can vary depending on the type of installation and how well it was done. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more.

4. What tools do I need to take out a sew-in?
You will need a pair of sharp scissors, hair clips, wide-tooth comb or brush, and a detangling spray or oil.

5. Is there any special technique for removing a sew-in?
The safest way to remove a sew-in is by carefully cutting the thread that was used for sewing in the extensions. Then gently unravel each braid and comb through any tangles as you go.

6. Will taking out my sew-in damage my natural hair?
If done correctly, taking out your sew-in should not cause any damage to your natural hair. However, if you experience excessive shedding or breakage, make sure to seek professional advice.

In conclusion, the process of removing a sew in can be intimidating and overwhelming, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done effectively without causing damage to your own hair. It is important to carefully prepare and gather all necessary supplies before beginning the removal process. Following the proper steps of detangling, cutting and unraveling the threads, and gently washing and conditioning your hair will ensure a safe removal with minimal shedding. Additionally, properly caring for your own hair before and after the sew in installation can also greatly assist in making the removal process easier. Remember to take your time and be gentle with your hair throughout this process. By following these tips, you can confidently take out a sew in and restore the health of your natural hair. Lastly, it is essential to keep in mind that consulting a professional stylist is always recommended if you are unsure or uncomfortable with performing a sew in removal on your own. With proper care and maintenance, you can achieve beautiful results from sew-ins while maintaining healthy hair.

Author Profile

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Jill Nammar
My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.