Sew-In Maintenance: How to Care for Long-Lasting Extensions
Rayna Opoku
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Sew-In Maintenance: How to Care for Long-Lasting Extensions
A sew-in is one of the most popular ways to wear traditional weft extensions. They are great for having a bit of fun with your look, adding some length and fullness, or even playing around with a different texture. And the best part is that you can achieve all of this while keeping your natural hair tucked away and protected.
But even the most high-quality sew-ins need regular care to stay looking fresh. If you’ve ever wondered how to maintain a sew-in or how long a sew-in should last, this guide covers everything you need to know.
What is a Sew-In?
A sew-in is a method where your natural hair is braided down into cornrows, and weft extensions are sewn onto your braids with a needle and thread. Sewing the hair into your braids creates a secure style that can last several weeks when properly maintained.
While you can use synthetic hair extensions for your sew-in, human hair extensions offer a more realistic look, longer wear time, and easier styling.
How Long Should a Sew-In Last?
Many people ask how long a sew-in should last — and the answer depends on your care routine.
With proper maintenance, a sew-in can last 4 to 6 weeks. Some styles may last up to 8 weeks if you’re using high-quality human hair weft extensions and keeping your scalp clean and dry.
How to Maintain a Sew-In
If you’re new to this style, knowing how to maintain a sew-in is essential to keeping the extensions and your hair underneath both healthy and beautiful.
Some people may prefer to see their stylist between washes, but if you choose to care for your sew-in at home, here’s what to do:
- Begin with water: Start by completely saturating your hair with water before applying shampoo. This helps to remove any residue that has accumulated on your hair from styling products and the elements.
- Shampoo: Next, use a hydrating shampoo to clean your scalp gently. You want to make sure your scalp is clean without overly disturbing the sew-in. Don’t rub the hair together. Instead, finger-comb the hair in a downward motion as you wash out the shampoo.
- Apply conditioner: Once you’ve rinsed out all the shampoo, follow up with your conditioner of choice. Detangle with your fingers to remove any tangles.
- Apply your leave-in conditioner: After you’ve gently dried your hair with a microfiber towel, apply your leave-in conditioner before drying. Focus on your leave-out and lightly apply to extensions as well.
- Thoroughly dry hair: Sit under a hooded dryer or use a blow dryer at your roots to ensure the braids underneath dry fully.
- Use heat protectant: If you plan to use a blow dryer or flat iron, apply a heat protectant before styling.
blūm beauty tip: If your sew-in was done with natural hair extensions, treat them like your natural hair. Use hydrating products and avoid using heavy oils that can weigh down your hair.
How Long Does a Traditional Sew-In Last?
A traditional sew-in (with or without leave-out) typically lasts around 4 to 6 weeks. If you apply heat often to your natural hair to blend it with the sew-in, you may want to remove it sooner to protect your curl pattern.
When using kinky or textured human hair bundles, your natural hair will blend better with less frequent flat ironing, helping the style last longer and look more natural.
Blending and Heat Styling Tips for Sew-In Maintenance
If your sew-in uses straight or silk press texture extensions:
- Always apply a heat protectant before using hot tools.
- Use low to medium heat to prevent dryness and breakage.
- Detangle gently from ends to roots using a paddle brush.
- Wrap your hair at night in a satin scarf to avoid frizz.
If your sew-in is with kinky or textured human hair extensions:
- Refresh your curls with a mix of water and leave-in conditioner.
- Avoid brushing dry hair to prevent frizz.
- Detangle hair only when damp.
- Use a diffuser to set curls, or air-dry your hair.
General Sew-In Maintenance Tips
- Always dry your braids underneath your sew-in completely to prevent buildup and mildew.
- Use a brush or wide-toothed comb to refresh and smooth your extensions when needed.
- Choose 100% human hair wefts when possible for longer-lasting styles and easier maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here’s everything you need to know about sew-in maintenance and care.
What is a sew-in?
A sew-in is a protective style where your natural hair is braided down, and weft extensions are sewn onto the braids.
How long should a sew-in last?
With consistent maintenance, a sew-in should last about 4 to 6 weeks. After that, it’s best to remove or reinstall the style to protect your natural hair and avoid damage.
How do I maintain my sew-in?
You can maintain your sew-in by washing as needed, drying thoroughly, and using heat protectant before blending your natural hair with the extensions.
Is a sew-in high maintenance?
A sew-in is a moderate maintenance style. It requires less daily styling than natural hair, but still needs washing, drying, and gentle handling to keep it looking its best.
How often should I change my sew-in?
It’s best to remove and reinstall your sew-in every 4–6 weeks. This allows your scalp to breathe and prevents tension on your roots and edges.
Sew-In Maintenance Doesn’t Need to Be Complicated
A sew-in is a fun way to protect your hair while enjoying styling versatility. The key to making your style last depends on how consistent you are with your wash routine to protect both your extensions and your natural hair underneath.
With proper care, your sew-in will stay smooth, soft, and natural-looking from start to finish.
Of course, the foundation of a flawless sew-in starts with the right hair. blūm’s premium human hair weft extensions are designed to blend seamlessly with your hair.
Ready to create a sew-in style that looks and feels just like you? Explore the full collection today.
