Sew-Ins 101: Everything You Need to Know About This Protective Style
Q&A with a Sew-In Expert at The Press Room Salon
Sew-ins have long been a go-to protective style for women looking for added length, volume, and versatility while keeping their natural hair healthy. But if you’re new to sew-ins—or want to make sure you’re getting the most out of them—you probably have questions.
At The Press Room Salon, we specialize in luxury sew-in installations that look natural, last longer, and promote healthy hair growth. In this blog, we’re answering the most frequently asked questions about sew-ins, so you can walk into your next appointment feeling fully informed and confident.
Q: What Exactly is a Sew-In?
A: A Sew-In is a Protective Style That Uses Braided Foundation & Extensions
A sew-in is a type of hair extension installation where your natural hair is braided into a secure base (braid pattern), and hair extensions are sewn onto the braids using a needle and thread. Unlike glue-in extensions or clip-ins, a sew-in provides a longer-lasting, protective solution that allows your natural hair to rest while still achieving a flawless, full look.
Q: What Are the Benefits of Getting a Sew-In?
A: Sew-Ins Offer Length, Volume, Versatility, and Hair Protection
Sew-ins are one of the best protective styles for clients who want a low-maintenance yet high-quality hair transformation. Here’s why:
✔ Adds Instant Length & Volume – Perfect for clients looking to enhance their natural hair.
✔ Protects Natural Hair – Your real hair is braided and tucked away, reducing daily manipulation and breakage.
✔ Long-Lasting Style – When installed and maintained properly, sew-ins last 6-8 weeks.
✔ Versatility in Styling – Can be straightened, curled, or worn in different styles depending on the type of install.
✔ Perfect for Transitioning Hair – If you’re growing out relaxers or heat damage, a sew-in helps protect your hair during the process.
Q: What Types of Sew-Ins Are Available?
A: Different Sew-In Techniques Cater to Different Hair Goals
At The Press Room Salon, we offer customized sew-in installations based on your hair needs. Here are the most popular options:
🔹 Natural Part Sew-In – This style blends your natural hair leave-out with the extensions for a seamless, natural look.
🔹 Full Sew-In with Closure – Uses a lace closure to cover the braids completely, eliminating the need for leave-out and reducing heat damage.
🔹 Lace Frontal Sew-In – Includes a lace frontal piece sewn from ear to ear, offering the most styling flexibility, including different parting options.
🔹 Microlink Sew-In Hybrid – A combination of microlink extensions and sew-ins, offering a lightweight, natural feel.
Each method has its own benefits, depending on how much of your real hair you want to leave out and how often you plan to style it.
Q: How Long Do Sew-Ins Last?
A: The Average Sew-In Lasts 6-8 Weeks with Proper Maintenance
A professionally installed sew-in should last anywhere between 6 to 8 weeks, depending on:
✔ Your hair growth rate
✔ How well you maintain the style
✔ Whether your braids remain secure without excessive tension
To keep your sew-in looking fresh, regular maintenance is essential. We recommend a touch-up around the 4-week mark for closure or frontal sew-ins to prevent lifting.
Q: Will a Sew-In Damage My Natural Hair?
A: Not When Installed & Removed Properly by a Professional
One of the biggest sew-in myths is that the style damages hair—but this only happens when improper techniques are used.
To prevent damage, ensure that:
✔ Your stylist braids your hair without excessive tension
✔ The sew-in is not left in too long (more than 8 weeks can lead to matting)
✔ You moisturize and cleanse your scalp under the extensions
✔ The sew-in is professionally removed to avoid unnecessary breakage
At The Press Room Salon, we focus on healthy installations and removal techniques, ensuring that your natural hair thrives under your sew-in.
Q: How Do I Maintain My Sew-In at Home?
A: Follow These Steps to Keep Your Sew-In Looking Flawless
To keep your sew-in fresh, tangle-free, and lasting longer, follow these at-home care tips:
1️⃣ Wrap Your Hair Every Night – Use a silk scarf or bonnet to prevent frizz and keep the extensions smooth.
2️⃣ Moisturize Your Scalp – Apply lightweight oils (like argan or jojoba oil) to keep your scalp from drying out.
3️⃣ Wash Carefully – Use sulfate-free shampoo and focus on cleansing the scalp while avoiding excessive manipulation of the braids.
4️⃣ Avoid Heavy Product Build-Up – Too many creams, sprays, or oils can weigh down the extensions and cause tangling.
5️⃣ Schedule a Touch-Up If Needed – A quick refresh around week 4 helps maintain the style and keep your edges looking sleek.
Proper care ensures that your sew-in remains intact while also keeping your natural hair healthy underneath.
Q: How Do I Choose the Best Hair for a Sew-In?
A: High-Quality Virgin or Raw Hair Provides the Best Results
The type of hair used for a sew-in affects longevity, styling versatility, and overall appearance.
✔ Virgin Hair – 100% unprocessed human hair, soft, and natural-looking.
✔ Raw Hair – Purest form of human hair, long-lasting, and maintains its quality even after multiple installs.
✔ High-Quality Extensions – Investing in good hair ensures that your sew-in looks seamless, tangle-free, and natural.
At The Press Room Salon, we only work with premium extensions that match your texture and styling goals for a flawless finish.
Q: How Do I Book a Sew-In at The Press Room Salon?
A: Book Online for a Luxury Sew-In Experience
If you’re ready to experience a luxury sew-in that enhances your beauty while protecting your natural hair, we’ve got you covered. At The Press Room Salon, our expert stylists provide:
✔ Custom consultations to determine the best sew-in for your needs.
✔ Flawless, undetectable installations that blend seamlessly.
✔ Healthy hair maintenance plans to ensure growth and retention.
Book your appointment today and transform your hair with a professional sew-in that lasts.