To Weave or Not to Weave?

That is the question many of us ask ourselves. Weave can be good for many reasons and I have listed two major ones below:

• -Growing out your hair, a relaxer or color
• -Versatility - You can go from a Rihanna boy cut to Beyonce locks in moments without making any major changes to your own hair!

I made the "weave conversion" change about three years ago and my hair has probably grown about four to five inches every year since then. I wanted to grow out my relaxer and some bad color I had. My hair underneath the weave is the strongest it could EVER be. Now don't get me wrong, any 'ole weaving technique won't get you the growth results you want so here are some good tips to remember.

1. Choose a good stylist! - You are going to have to invest good money in a good stylist who specializes in weaves. There are some stylists out there who ONLY provide weaving services so the good ones are definitely out there. If you need recommendations let me know! The foundation of your weave is in the braids underneath so this has to be right before any long Rapunzel Locks are sewn in.
   
   
2. Care for your own hair! - Even though your weave is the main attraction, you must still care for your hair underneath. WEEKLY washing and conditioning is a must! I recommend getting a hair color squirt bottle, putting some scalp cleansing shampoo in it with mostly water and using that to get to the scalp. As far as conditioning goes, try to use one that will soothe your scalp. Remember, these products you use on your scalp don't have to be for the weave hair itself. They should be formulated to treat your scalp for moisture and cleansing. Something with peppermint in it is excellent. I recommend a few shampoo's and conditioner's below, that add some tingle to your scalp, in the Hair Sugar Must Have's section.
   
   
3. Take good care of your hair extensions! - Moisture, moisture and more moisture! Your hair extensions need moisture. Since the hair is not growing from your scalp, you need to supply it with the same vitamins and minerals your real hair gets. I highly recommend Dove, Pantene or Nexxus products for your extensions. Also a light leave in conditioner can help with detangling. OIL ALERT: PLEASE DO NOT PUT GREASE OR OIL IN YOUR HAIR EXTENSIONS!!!! If you wear Indian hair, the hair only needs moisture from deep conditioning. You can use a silicone-based product such as Biosilk for in between shampoos. Oil will make the hair stringy and overly shiny in a Grease Lightning type of way. Please, no oil!
   


4. Choose your extensions wisely! - This is probably one of the most important items you need to invest in. You must invest in premium quality human hair. Indian hair is one of the best types of hair extensions you can buy. The textures are very versatile and can blend with the kinkiest of hair textures. You can go between straight and curly with a flat iron and if you take proper care of your hair, it could last you up to a year. Why pay $300 for hair extensions and put $20 hair in? Indian hair does cost more than your normal beauty supply hair however, it will last you way longer. You do the math :). Hair Sugar specializes in selling premium Indian human hair. Our store will launch in the late fall so check back often for updates.

Hair Sugar's Product Must-Haves

Rosemary Mint Shampoo With Sea Moss by Carol's Daughter

Nioxin Cleanser & Scalp Therapy System 3

I hope you take the weave plunge! Stay tuned for weave and hair growth challenges!

XX - H.S.