Are crochet extensions same as a hair weave?
Crochet hair extensions are not the same as a hair weave, the only similarity is they both use braids. Crochet hair extensions are a temporary way to add hair (human or synthetic), applied at the top of the head. The hair is braided at the part line, in a french braid fashion, the extensions hair is then looped through the braid using a latch hook. This system of hair extensions works well for kids, or to wear for a few nights out. As the braid loosens, the extensions will relax and will need to be removed. This is a kid-friendly way to add extra hair or bold colors to hair! There is no glue, sewing, tape, or damage added to the hair. Another semi-permanent method of adding tinsel sparkle and cool colors is to use a microbead, thread the extension into the bead, and clamp the bead closed. As spring and summer approach, kids are looking to have fun with their hair, and moms prefer no damage. The braid is exposed in the hair and looks like part of the style.
A hair weave is a system of braiding (corn rows) into natural hair, there are several patterns of braids that work well based on the client's natural hair length. Once the head is braided, wefts of hair are sewn into the braid. The weaving technique has been popular for decades and works especially well with textured hair. Although, an expert braider can create a tight braid for silky textures, and the results are the same. If the top of the hair is left out, a closure can be sewn in to give a natural part.
The beaded sew-in method works similarly to the braided weave but utilizes a beaded matrix instead of a braid, hair wefts are then sewn around the bead. This technique requires part of the hair to be exposed which will cover the hair extensions. If hair is too short and requires more coverage, the braided method is preferred.
The beaded row technique works well on all hair textures, the hair is reusable, and is removed and replaced every six to eight weeks. This is considered a "braidless sew-in."
At Noelle Salon, we work with all ages but are mindful to not damage a young person's hair. If you purchase synthetic hair, keep in mind that it does not wash, dry, or style like human hair. In fact, synthetic hair will often singe when thermal heat is applied.
If you want to play with colors, opt for colorful clip-in extensions that work as accent pieces. Amazon offers a variety of fashion shades in human hair, and they can be taken off at the end of the day!
Both crochet hair extensions and sew-in braided weave use a braid to secure the hair extensions, but they are very different. Crochet hair extensions can be applied in less than an hour, whereas a braided weave can take several hours.
I receive a lot of questions about both hair extension techniques. There are several videos on youtube featuring crochet hair extensions, and they are great for the DIY crowd. If you are all thumbs when it comes to hair, we can assist you in applying crochet hair extensions or micro-beaded strands. We are located 10 minutes north of Boston, with plenty of parking.
Hair Extensions Background
At Noelle Salon, they evaluate your natural hair, and listen to the client's wishes on styling, color match, and look. They use human hair extensions like 100% Remy human hair, or Virgin Hair (unlike Bellami hair). Hair extensions can be used for short hair or 24 inches of a full head of hair, and they have worked with different methods like tape-in extensions, clip-in hair extensions, Keratin and enjoy using the Veila Pull-thru method with the Veila Hair Extensions for ease of hair care. Styling can vary from flat iron, natural curl, or curly hair. Whether you are looking for a change of style or look for a day such as a Clip-in ponytail, having a high-quality ponytail extension can mix it up for you. Your natural hair journey with your hair growth can be enhanced with Hair extensions when protective styling is applied, and regular maintenance is used. You can change your hair in one day - feel free to reach out and explore the possibilities.