Unlock the Secret to Perfect Sew Ins: How Long to Keep Your Weave In!

Have you ever tried a sew-in hairstyle and wondered how long it should stay in? Perhaps you’ve heard conflicting advice from friends or hairstylists. Well, look no further because we have all the answers for you. In this article, we will discuss the best practices for keeping your sew-in intact and fresh for as long as possible. From expert tips to common mistakes to avoid, we have everything you need to know about how long to keep a sew-in. So, whether you are new to this hair trend or a seasoned pro, keep reading to discover the secrets of achieving a flawless and long-lasting sew-in hairstyle.

When it comes to installing hair extensions, sew-in weaves are a popular choice for many women. This method involves sewing the extensions onto your natural hair, resulting in a seamless and natural look. However, one question that arises for those considering a sew-in is, “How long should I keep it in?” The answer is not as straightforward as one may think as there are various factors to consider. In this article, we will dive into all the details you need to know about how long to keep a sew-in.

How Long Does a Sew-In Last?

The short answer is that a sew-in can last anywhere from 4-12 weeks; however, the true answer ultimately depends on various factors such as your lifestyle, hair care routine, and maintenance. Generally, if you take proper care of your sew-in and have minimal shedding and tangling, you can easily keep it in for 8-10 weeks. On the other hand, if you lead a very active lifestyle with frequent workouts or do not adhere to proper maintenance practices, you may need to replace your sew-in after only 4-6 weeks.

Lifestyle Factors That Affect How Long You Can Keep Your Sew-In

Your lifestyle plays a significant role in determining how long your sew-in will last. If you have an active lifestyle that involves swimming or frequent workouts where you sweat heavily, this can lead to faster wear and tear on your sew-in. Additionally, if you enjoy extreme outdoor activities such as hiking or camping frequently, exposure to dirt and debris can also cause damage to your extensions.

To prolong the lifespan of your sew-in in such situations, proper care and maintenance are crucial. Always wrap your hair in a silk scarf before engaging in any physical activity that could expose it to dirt or sweat. After each workout or excessive sweating session, be sure to wash and deep condition your hair to remove any buildup and keep your natural hair and extensions healthy.

Hair Care Routine: The Key to Long-Lasting Sew-Ins

Your pre and post-installation hair care routine also plays a significant role in determining how long your sew-in will last. Before installing the extensions, be sure to properly cleanse and condition your natural hair. A clean scalp will promote healthy hair growth, which is essential for keeping your sew-in in for an extended period. Additionally, using a leave-in conditioner or heat protectant before styling can help protect your extensions from heat damage, prolonging their lifespan.

Proper maintenance post-installation is also vital for maintaining the integrity of your sew-in. Be sure to regularly moisturize both your natural hair and the extensions to avoid dryness and breakage. Also, sleeping with a silk scarf or bonnet at night can help reduce friction on the hair, preventing tangling and shedding.

Avoid Overstyling

One common mistake that many individuals make is constantly restyling their sew-ins. While it can be tempting to change up your look every few days or so, this constant manipulation can cause damage to both your natural hair and the extensions. Avoid using excessive heat or harsh products on your sew-in as this can lead to dryness and breakage.

Signs That It’s Time for a Removal

Even with proper care and maintenance, there comes a time when it’s necessary to remove your sew-in. Here are some signs that indicate it’s time for a removal:

Excessive tangling: If you find yourself spending more time combing out tangles than enjoying your hairstyle, this could be an indication that it’s time for a removal.
Excessive shedding: A small amount of shedding is normal with any type of hair extension. However, if you notice clumps of hair coming out every time you comb or style your sew-in, this could be a sign that it’s time for a replacement.
Irritation or discomfort: If you experience any irritation or discomfort on your scalp, it’s possible that your sew-in is too tight or causing damage to your natural hair. In this case, it’s best to remove it immediately to avoid further damage.
Visible tracks: As your natural hair continues to grow, the tracks used to sew in the extensions may become more visible, resulting in an unnatural appearance. Once this happens, it’s time for a removal and reinstallation.

In summary, there is no set timeframe for how long a sew-in should last. The duration depends on various factors such as lifestyle, hair care routine, and maintenance practices. Proper care and maintenance are key to prolonging the lifespan of your sew-in. Be sure to listen to your hair and monitor any signs that may indicate it’s time for a removal. With these tips in mind, you can confidently rock a flawless sew-in for

If you’re considering getting a sew in hairstyle, you may be wondering how long it will last and when you should have it removed. Sew ins are a popular choice for those looking to add length, volume, or protective styling to their hair. However, like any hairstyle, sew ins have a shelf life and it’s important to know how long you can keep them in before needing to take them out. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about how long to keep sew ins.

The Average Lifespan of a Sew In

On average, sew ins can last between 6-8 weeks. This time frame can vary depending on the type of hair used, the quality of installation, and how well you care for your sew in during its lifespan. Some people may even be able to keep their sew ins in for up to 12 weeks if their natural hair is able to withstand the weight and tension of the added weave. However, it’s important to pay attention to your own hair’s health and comfort level as leaving your sew in in for too long can cause damage.

Factors that Affect How Long Your Sew In Will Last

As mentioned before, there are multiple factors that can influence the lifespan of your sew in hairstyle. Let’s take a closer look at each one.

Type of Hair: Your stylist may offer different options for types of hair when getting a sew in installed. The most common options are synthetic hair, human hair, or a combination of both (which is known as “blended” hair). Synthetic hair tends to be less expensive but also has a shorter lifespan compared to high-quality human hair which can last longer with proper care.

Quality of Installation: The success and longevity of your sew in also heavily depend on the skill and experience of your stylist. A poorly executed sew in can cause discomfort, tension, and even damage to your natural hair. It’s important to do your research and choose a reputable stylist who has experience with sew ins.

Caring for Your Sew In: How well you take care of your sew in will play a big role in how long it lasts. It’s important to follow the maintenance routine recommended by your stylist which may include washing, conditioning, and protective styling techniques. Neglecting proper care can lead to matting, tangling, and an overall shorter lifespan for your sew in.

Signs It’s Time to Take Out Your Sew In

While 6-8 weeks is the average lifespan of a sew in, there are some signs that it’s time to have it removed even before then. Pay attention to the following indicators:

Tension on Natural Hair: If you start feeling excessive tension or tightness around your hairline or scalp, it may be time for a removal. Leaving the weights of the added hair for too long can put strain on your natural hair and even cause breakage.

Lack of Proper Care: As mentioned before, not taking care of your sew in properly can lead to tangles, matting, and an overall shorter lifespan. If you find that you’re neglecting care or not following recommendations from your stylist, it may be best to take out the sew in before any damage occurs.

Natural Hair Growth: As time goes on, your natural hair will continue to grow underneath the added weave. This new growth can cause tension and discomfort if left unattended for too long.

How to Safely Remove a Sew In

When it’s time to take out your sew in, it’s important to do so safely so as not to cause damage or pain to your natural hair. Here are some tips on removing a sew in:

1. Start at the back: Begin by gently loosening the braids at the back of your head where the wefts are attached. This will make it easier to remove the rest of the sew in without pulling on your natural hair.

2. Use oil: Apply a small amount of oil (such as coconut or olive oil) along the seams and tracks of your sew in to help loosen the knots and make removal easier.

3. Be patient: Take your time when removing a sew in. Rushing can lead to mistakes and damage to your natural hair.

4. Detangle gently: As you remove each weft, be sure to detangle any knots or tangles carefully with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.

5. Wash and deep condition: Once all of the added hair is out, give your natural hair some TLC with a gentle shampoo and deep conditioner treatment.

Caring for Your Natural Hair After a Sew In

After removing a sew in, it’s important to take extra care of both your scalp and natural hair. Here are some tips for post-sew in care:

Scalp Care: Your scalp may be irritated or

1. How long can you keep a sew in?
Sew ins can typically last anywhere from 4-8 weeks, depending on how well they are maintained and the type of hair extensions used. However, it is recommended to remove the sew in after 6-8 weeks to avoid any potential damage to your natural hair.

2. What factors affect how long a sew in can last?
The longevity of a sew in depends on various factors such as the quality of the hair extensions, the skill of the stylist, and how well you take care of your hair while wearing the sew in.

3. Can I keep my sew in for more than 8 weeks?
It is not recommended to keep a sew in for more than 8 weeks as it can cause tension and damage to your natural hair. If you want to wear extensions for longer periods, consider getting a new set or taking a break before reinstalling another one.

4. How should I care for my sew in to make it last longer?
To prolong the life of your sew in, make sure to use sulfate-free and gentle shampoos, avoid excessive heat styling, and brush your hair gently with a wide-tooth comb or brush designed for hair extensions. Additionally, cover your head with a satin scarf or bonnet at night.

5. What should I do if my sew in starts to itch?
If you experience itching while wearing a sew in, it’s likely due to product buildup or improper installation leading to tension on your scalp. Try using an anti-itch scalp spray or oil and make sure to cleanse your scalp regularly with a mild clarifying shampoo.

6. Can I swim with a sew-in installed?
While you technically can swim with a sew-in installed, it’s not recommended as it can cause tangling and damage to the hair extensions. If you must swim, make sure to wear a swimming cap and rinse your hair thoroughly with water and a gentle shampoo afterwards.

In conclusion, the decision on how long to keep a sew in hairstyle ultimately depends on a variety of factors such as personal preference, hair health, and maintenance routine. Generally, a sew in can be kept in for 4-8 weeks before needing to be removed and reinstalled. However, for optimal hair health, it is important to not go longer than 12 weeks without removing the sew in.

It is important to properly care for your natural hair while wearing a sew in by following a regular washing and conditioning routine and ensuring that the braids underneath are not too tight or causing any damage. Proper installation and removal techniques are also crucial to prevent any damage to your natural hair.

Additionally, keeping a sew in for an extended period of time can lead to matting and tangling of both the weave and natural hair if not properly maintained. This can also result in hair breakage and thinning.

In summary, it is important to find a balance between keeping a sew in for too long and risking hair damage versus taking it out too soon and not being able to fully enjoy the hairstyle. By following proper maintenance techniques and paying attention to your natural hair’s health, you can safely enjoy your sew in for 4-8 weeks at a time before needing to reinstall or

Author Profile

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.