Weave-Ins & Wigs: Choosing, Installing & Caring for Your Look

Weaves and wig installs are one of the most versatile ways to change your length, colour or texture without altering your own hair. Whether you want a traditional sew-in, a closure or frontal for a natural-looking part, or a wig install you can take on and off, the right choice depends on the look you want and how much protection your natural hair needs underneath.

The main install types

These are the options you will usually choose between, from the most permanent to the most flexible.

• Traditional sew-in — wefts are sewn onto cornrowed natural hair, often with a small leave-out blended over the top.
• Closure sew-in — a small hairpiece closes off the crown so there is no leave-out, protecting more of your natural hair.
• Frontal install — a larger piece runs ear to ear, letting you part anywhere and style hair off your face.
• Wig install — a closure or frontal wig is fitted and secured, giving you the same finished look with the option to remove it.

See the full range and pricing on our weave and wig services menu, or book a wig installation.

Protecting the hair underneath

A good install should protect your natural hair, not hide damage. Before the wefts or wig go on, your hair should be clean, conditioned and braided down at a comfortable tension. Installs that are too tight — or worn back-to-back for months without a break — put repeated stress on your hairline and can contribute to traction alopecia. Dermatologists list tight weaves among the styles that can cause this kind of gradual hair loss, so comfort matters as much as the finished look. The American Academy of Dermatology hair-care guidance is a helpful reference.

Caring for your scalp during an install

You still need to reach and care for the scalp underneath.

• Cleanse the scalp with diluted shampoo or a cleansing applicator, and dry thoroughly to avoid odour and mildew.
• Use a light oil or spray on the braided base to keep your scalp from drying out.
• Wrap your hair at night with a satin scarf or bonnet to keep the style smooth.
• Avoid heavy product build-up near the wefts, which can attract dirt and weigh the install down.

Keeping human-hair extensions looking fresh

Quality human-hair bundles and wigs can be washed, conditioned and heat-styled — treat them gently and they last far longer.

• Detangle from the ends up with a soft brush, never yanking from the roots.
• Wash with sulphate-free shampoo and condition the lengths to keep the hair soft.
• Use heat tools on a moderate setting and always with a heat protectant.
• Store a removable wig on a stand or in a satin bag to keep its shape.

How long can you keep an install in?

A sew-in or closure install is usually worn for six to eight weeks before it should come out for a wash, a scalp rest and a re-install. A removable wig gives you the most flexibility because you can take it off nightly. When you are due for a refresh, book your install in Portmore and your stylist will prep your natural hair properly first.