Unweaving the Mystery: A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Remove a Sew In Weave

Are you tired of spending hours in the salon every few weeks to get your weave taken out? Well, you’re not alone. As much as we love the versatility and convenience of sew in weaves, the removal process can be quite daunting and time-consuming. But fear not, because in this article we will be sharing tips and tricks on how to take out a sew in weave like a pro! From tools you’ll need to step-by-step instructions, get ready to say goodbye to long salon visits and hello to a stress-free removal process.

What is a Sew-In Weave?

A sew-in weave, also known as a sew-in or hair weft, is a type of hair extension that is applied by sewing a bundle of hair onto braided natural hair. The process involves creating small, tight braids (known as cornrows) on the scalp and then sewing the weft of hair onto these braids. This technique allows for a secure and long-lasting installation of extensions without the use of heat or glue.

Sew-in weaves come in various lengths, colors, and textures to match different natural hair types. They can be made from synthetic or human hair, but human hair is generally preferred for its more natural look and feel. Additionally, sew-in weaves can either be partial (covering only certain sections of the head) or full (providing coverage for the entire head).

Preparing Your Natural Hair for a Sew-In Weave

Before getting a sew-in weave, it’s important to properly prepare your natural hair to ensure the best results. Here are some steps you can follow:

1. Cleanse your scalp: Start by washing your natural hair with shampoo to remove any product buildup or oil on your scalp. This will create a clean base for braiding and sewing.

2. Condition and detangle: After shampooing, apply conditioner to your natural hair and gently detangle it with a wide-tooth comb. This will make it easier to braid without causing too much tension on your scalp.

3. Stretch your natural hair: If you have tightly coiled or curly hair, it’s helpful to stretch it before braiding to make the process easier. You can do this by blow-drying your hair or using heatless stretching methods such as banding or twisting.

4. Trim any split ends: It’s important to trim any split ends before getting a sew-in weave to prevent further damage and breakage.

5. Moisturize your natural hair: To maintain the health of your natural hair while wearing a sew-in weave, make sure to moisturize it well before braiding and sewing. This will help prevent dryness and breakage.

The Installation Process

Once your natural hair is properly prepared, it’s time to get the sew-in weave installed. Here are the steps involved:

1. Section off your natural hair: Depending on the desired style, your stylist will section off your hair into small rows or cornrows. These cornrows will serve as the base for sewing in the wefts of hair.

2. Braid and secure: Using a braiding technique called “underhand” or “feed-in” braiding, your stylist will braid each row close to the scalp, making sure there is enough tension to keep the braid flat but not too tight to cause discomfort.

3. Sew in the weft: Once all rows are braided, it’s time to attach the wefts of hair using a curved needle and thread that matches the color of your natural hair. The process involves stitching through both the cornrow and weft of hair in a back-and-forth motion until it is securely attached.

4. Repeat until complete: The process is repeated row by row until all sections of natural hair are covered with extensions.

Caring for Your Sew-In Weave

To keep your sew-in weave looking fresh and healthy for an extended period, follow these tips:

1. Keep your scalp clean: While wearing a sew-in weave, it’s important not to neglect proper scalp hygiene. Use dry shampoo or diluted shampoo on spots that may become greasy or dirty between washes.

2. Limit products with alcohol: Products that contain alcohol can dry out both your natural hair and extensions, leading to frizz and damage. Opt for alcohol-free products or use them sparingly.

3. Avoid heat styling: Excessive heat can cause damage to both your natural hair and the weave, so try to avoid using heat styling tools as much as possible.

4. Protect your hair at night: Wrap your hair in a satin scarf or bonnet at night to keep it from rubbing against your pillow, which can cause friction and lead to tangles and frizz.

5. Moisturize regularly: Just like with your natural hair, it’s important to keep your sew-in weave moisturized to maintain its shine and softness. Use a leave-in conditioner or moisturizing spray to keep both your natural hair and extensions hydrated.

How to Remove a Sew-In Weave

When it’s time to remove your sew-in weave, follow these steps:

1. Cut the thread: Using scissors, carefully cut the thread that is holding the wefts of hair onto the braids.

2. Gently unravel the weft from the braid: Once the thread is cut, gently pull out the stitched areas of each row without pulling on your natural hair.

3. Detangle before shampooing: Before washing your hair, gently detangle any knots or tangles using

A sew-in weave is a popular hairstyle that involves attaching hair extensions to your natural hair with the use of needle and thread. It provides added length, volume, and versatility to your hair. While sew-in weaves can be a great way to change up your look, it is important to know how to properly remove them without causing damage to your natural hair. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the steps on how to take out a sew-in weave safely and effectively.

What You Need

Before you begin the process of removing your sew-in weave, there are a few items that you will need:

– A wide-tooth comb
– Hair clips or rubber bands
– Scissors (optional)
– Hair conditioner or detangler
– Oil (such as coconut or olive oil)
– Small spray bottle with water

Step 1: Prepare Your Hair

The first step in taking out a sew-in weave is to prepare your hair. Start by making sure that you have enough time set aside for the process, as it can take some time depending on how securely the weave is attached. Next, gather all of the items listed above so they are easily accessible.

Section Off Your Hair

Use hair clips or rubber bands to separate your natural hair into four sections: two at the front and two at the back. This will make the process more manageable and prevent tangling.

Remove Any Extensions

If your sew-in has any extensions that were added separately (such as clip-ins), remove them before starting the process.

Step 2: Detangle Your Hair

Using a wide-tooth comb, gently detangle each section of your hair starting from the ends and working your way up towards the roots. Be careful not to tug or pull too hard, as this can damage your hair and make the removal process more difficult.

Step 3: Loosen The Weave

To make the weave easier to remove, you will need to loosen it first. Start by spraying a small amount of water on the roots of your hair, where the weave is attached. This will help to loosen any product build-up and make it easier to take out.

Next, apply a generous amount of conditioner or detangler to your hair and gently massage it into the roots where the extensions are attached. This will help to soften and loosen the weave even more. You can also use oil (such as coconut or olive oil) to aid in the process.

Be Patient

It’s important to be patient during this step and not rush. The key is to gently work at loosening the weave without causing any damage to your hair.

Step 4: Start Removing The Weave

Once you have loosened the weave, it’s time to start removing it. Beginning at the nape of your neck, gently pull out each track of hair with your fingers or a comb. Be careful not to pull too hard or you may cause damage.

If there are some particularly stubborn tracks that won’t come out easily, use scissors to cut them as close to your scalp as possible. Just be sure only to cut through the extensions and not your natural hair.

Continue this process until all of the tracks have been removed from your head.

Tip:

If you find that a particular section is still difficult to remove, you may need some extra help from a friend or stylist who can see what they are doing better than you (since you won’t be able to see behind your head).

Step 5: Wash Your Hair

After you have removed all of the tracks, it’s important to thoroughly wash your hair to remove any remaining product or residue. Use a clarifying shampoo and focus on the roots where the extensions were attached.

After shampooing, condition your hair to help restore moisture and promote healthy hair growth.

Step 6: Moisturize Your Hair

To maintain the health of your natural hair, it’s important to moisturize it regularly. After removing a sew-in weave, your hair may feel dry and damaged. Use a leave-in conditioner or oil to add moisture back into your hair and restore its shine.

Removing a sew-in weave can be a time-consuming process, but it is crucial for maintaining the health of your natural hair. By following these steps and being patient and gentle with your hair, you can safely take out a sew-in weave without any damage. Remember to always properly care for your natural hair after removing extensions to keep it healthy and looking its best.

1. How long does a sew in weave last?
A sew in weave can last anywhere from 8-12 weeks with proper maintenance and care. However, it is recommended to remove and re-do the sew in after 6-8 weeks to avoid any matting or damage to your natural hair.

2. Can I wash my hair with a sew in weave?
Yes, you can wash your hair with a sew in weave, but it is important to be gentle and avoid scrubbing too hard. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner and make sure to dry your hair completely after washing to prevent any mold or mildew from forming.

3. How do I take out a sew in weave without damaging my natural hair?
To properly remove a sew in weave without causing damage, start by spraying an oil-based detangler onto your scalp and the tracks of the weave. Gently massage the oil into your scalp to loosen any tangles, then use a wide-tooth comb to gently comb out the weave starting from the ends and working your way up.

4. What should I do if my scalp feels itchy while wearing a sew in weave?
If you experience itching while wearing a sew in weave, try using an anti-itch spray or oil on your scalp. You can also gently massage your scalp with diluted tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar for relief.

5. Can I style my hair while wearing a sew in weave?
Yes, you can style your hair while wearing a sew in weave, but it is important to be gentle and avoid excessive pulling or tugging on the tracks. Use low heat settings when using heat tools and avoid any tight hairstyles that could cause tension on your natural hair.

6. How often should I get my sew in redone?
It is recommended to remove and re-do a sew in weave after 6-8 weeks, or when your natural hair starts to grow out excessively. Leaving a sew in for too long can cause matting and damage to your natural hair. It is also important to give your scalp a break in between sew ins to prevent any potential damage or irritation.

In conclusion, taking out a sew-in weave may seem like a daunting task, but with the right techniques and products, it can be done effectively and safely. As discussed, it is important to prepare your hair and gather all necessary materials before beginning the process. Proper technique is crucial to avoid damaging your natural hair or the weave itself. Whether you choose to use a professional stylist or remove the weave yourself, always prioritize the health of your hair.

Additionally, proper aftercare is essential in maintaining the health of your hair post-sew-in. Regular deep conditioning and trims can help repair any damage and promote growth. It is also advisable to take a break between sew-ins to give your hair a break from constant tension and weight.

Overall, learning how to take out a sew-in weave is essential for anyone who regularly uses this type of protective style. By following the steps outlined in this guide and keeping in mind key tips such as being gentle with detangling and using appropriate products, you can successfully remove your sew-in without causing harm to your natural hair. Remember to always prioritize healthy hair practices and seek professional help if needed.

Taking care of your natural hair is a journey, and learning proper techniques for removing sew-in weaves contributes significantly to its overall health. With patience,

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.