Taking Care of Your Extensions for a Lasting Look
Celebrities such as Niecy Nash from the TNT show Claws and Yvonne Orji from HBO’s Insecure are rocking one of the latest trends in hair extensions. Kinky straight hair extensions, also known as a blow out straight weave, has become one of the most popular hair textures across the globe.
The reason this type of hair is adored by many is that it is easy to blend, has free-flowing movement, and mimics your natural hair very well. Kinky straight produces a thick and full texture to hair. It can be styled or worn blown out or flat ironed. It will hold curls from a wand or curling iron and matches perfectly with relaxed hair and a silk press.
What is Kinky Straight Hair?
Kinky straight hair is a hair texture that mimics the appearance of natural Afro-textured hair that has been straightened but still retains some of its natural texture and volume. It offers a versatile look that bridges the gap between straight and curly hair, providing a thick, full appearance that can be styled in various ways.
Kinky straight creates a natural shine that is soft to the touch. The appearance of the hair is fantastic and stylish, but if you fail to maintain it correctly, the results will be a look of dry and worn hair.
So before you grab your bundles make sure that you understand it is up to you to nourish your hair and provide the TLC (FYI: it means tender love and care not the famous R&B group :) your extensions need for a long-lasting beautiful look.
Private Label Hair provides several ways to maintain your kinky straight hair.
Washing And Conditioning Kinky Straight Hair
As with any extensions washing and conditioning is a key element to maintaining the look and longevity of your hair.
Wash and condition your hair at least twice a week for a clean and polished look. Keep in mind that washing with shampoo will strip your weave of moisture, so I highly recommended that you use a conditioner after you shampoo.
You can also ditch the shampoo and use a co-wash. Another product that you can grab from your home is Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) Soak and rinse your hair with (ACV) for another way to strip your hair. Don't forget to use a clarifying shampoo at least once a week to get rid of product build up as well.
Remember, the less you wet or wash your hair, the better it will look. This doesn’t mean you should neglect washing your hair, but avoid the overuse of products such as hair sprays and gels.
If you are trying to clean your hair due to product buildup with shampoo, check out these steps to follow a perfect hair routine.
Detangle Kinky Straight Hair
Use a clarifying shampoo throughout hair.
Wash hair in a downwards motion every single time you wash your hair.
Do not run your hair together. Rubbing hair together will cause it to tangle.
Rinse hair thoroughly to ensure all the product is washed out.
When you condition your hair, use a wide tooth comb to detangle (Check out this article: how to detangle matted weave) and distribute the conditioner throughout the hair evenly. Make sure the hair is entirely coated with conditioner while combing. Once you have combed through the hair, rinse thoroughly with cold water.
Remember to use a cotton shirt to pat dry your hair. Do not rub or scrunch the hair together; rubbing will cause tangles. Then let your hair air dry.
The beautiful thing about this type of texture is that it doesn’t need too many hair products. However, when it is dirty, it is more likely to tangle. Removing tangles isn’t as hard as you may think.
Just run your fingers through your hair and use a paddle brush to smooth it out. Don’t brush from root to ends, because it will cause shedding. Instead, work your way up from the tip to the roots.
Oils are Important for Kinky Straight Hair
A natural textured weave is just like our natural hair.
The only difference you must consider is that our natural hair receives natural oils from your scalp and your hair extensions will not receive the nourishment that it needs unless you provide it. You must have moisturizer for your extensions!
Using oils such as argan and olive oil while your hair damp hair will give your extensions a fantastic shine and will keep it well moisturized, but always remember that less is more when it comes to kinky weaves.
If you want to add some pizazz to your hair, it can be curled but minimize the use of heat, instead use a non-heat method to curl. The heat will do more damage than good. We suggest using heat sparingly to avoid any potential damage.
We’ve covered most of the do’s so we can now address the don'ts. Check out this list that will guide you to kinky straight hair extensions bliss.
Don't Wash Your Hair Too Much
Limit the use of hairspray and alcohol-based hair products.
Water keeps it in its natural state so don’t be afraid to get your hair wet.
Too much heat can cause permanent damage.
Use a silk head wrap or pillowcase for protection.
Don't Over Moisturize Your Hair. Too much of anything isn’t good.
Don't overheat your hair, if possible try to stay out of direct sources heat.
Don’t towel dry your hair. Instead, shake your head or squeeze the water out and air dry or use a cotton t-shirt. This will assist with reducing frizz and friction on your hair.
Try to install on a u-part or full wig which will assist with extending the “life of the hair.”
Use heat sparingly and use a heat protectant.
Seal wefts with some a type of weft sealer which will reduce shedding
Do not cut or sew through wefts.
Give Your Extensions a “Time Out”
Keeping your kinky straight extensions moisturized, washed and conditioned is key to keeping your hair up to par. Even with all of the tips listed, it’s always a good idea to give your extensions a rest.
Hair usually lasts anywhere from six to 12 weeks, depending on the type of hair and your ability to take good care of it.
When it is time to take out your current weave, make sure you thoroughly condition your natural hair to prepare it to be in its best form to support a new weave.
Why Women Love Kinky Straight Hair Weave
Versatility in Styling: Kinky straight hair weave offers a unique blend of texture that resembles natural Afro-textured hair while providing the ease of styling associated with straight hair.
This versatility allows women to experiment with various hairstyles, from sleek ponytails to voluminous buns, without committing to a permanent change. It serves as an excellent foundation for both protective styles and sophisticated looks, adapting well to heat styling and manipulation for those who enjoy changing their appearance regularly.
Natural Appearance: One of the primary reasons women love kinky straight hair weave is its ability to mimic the texture of natural, blow-out Afro hair closely. This texture ensures that the weave blends seamlessly with their natural hair, making it appear more authentic and less like a traditional weave.
It's especially appealing for those seeking a natural-looking extension option that complements their African heritage or for anyone looking to add volume and length to their hair in a way that doesn’t look artificial.
Protection and Low Maintenance: Kinky straight weaves provide a protective style that shields natural hair from daily wear and tear, environmental damage, and the need for frequent manipulation.
By tucking away their natural hair, women can prevent breakage and retain moisture, promoting healthier hair growth. Additionally, kinky straight hair weaves are relatively low maintenance compared to other textures.
They require less frequent washing, can be easily detangled, and don't demand intricate daily styling, making them a convenient choice for busy lifestyles or those new to wearing weaves.
Kinky Straight Sew-in (What Do You Need?)
For a kinky straight sew-in hairstyle, you will need bundles of kinky straight weave, typically around 2 to 4 depending on the desired thickness and length.
A short hairstyle up to 14" will only require two bundles. Anything more than 26" you will for sure need at least 4 bundles for a full and thick hairstyle. Three bundles will work for most hairstyles between the lengths of 16" - 24" depending on how thick you want your hair.
You'll also require a weaving net to protect your natural hair and provide a flat surface for sewing, a curved sewing needle, and thread that matches the hair color.
Essential tools include a comb, scissors, hair clips for sectioning, and a flat iron if you wish to further straighten or style the extensions.
Additionally, a good quality moisturizer or leave-in conditioner is recommended to maintain the health of your natural hair underneath and to ensure the kinky straight hair weave blend seamlessly for a natural and polished look.
If you have any questions about Kinky Straight Hair in Atlanta, or online, please reach out to us to see how we can help at Private Label!
