What Are Weft Hair Extensions Pros and Cons? Full Guide 2025

Weft hair extensions pros and cons

 In today’s quest for hair transformations, navigating the world of weft hair extensions can be daunting. Understanding weft hair extensions pros and cons is crucial for making an informed decision. In this article, GoviHair also guides you what weft hair extensions are, each type’s comparison and some essential tips for taking care of weft hair extensions.

What Are Weft Hair Extensions?

Weft hair extensions, also known as weaves, are created by sewing hair strands onto a thin fabric strip, using either a machine or hand. These extensions can be attached to natural hair using common methods such as tape-in and sew-in. Typically, this involves creating a foundational braid on the scalp and then sewing the weft onto this braid, ensuring a seamless blend with the natural hair.

There are two main types of wefts hair extensions: machine wefts and hand tied wefts. Machine wefts are made using specialized equipment, resulting in a thicker and more robust base. In contrast, hand tied wefts are meticulously crafted by hand, resulting in a thinner and more discreet option, albeit requiring more time and effort to produce.

Because they create a seamless curtain of hair, they are ideal for achieving significant length and thickness. However, understanding the specific mechanics is crucial before choosing among the various types of weave hair available on the market.

Weft Hair Bone Straight #5 Color Vietnamese Hair
Weft Hair Bone Straight #5 Color Vietnamese Hair

Pros of weft hair extensions

Why do people love wefts? Here is why they remain a best-seller:

Variety of weft hair extensions

Weft hair extensions come in a wide range of options, making them versatile enough to suit different styles and preferences. Whether you want complex updos, weave hair colors like balayage without dyeing your real hair, or bouncy curls, wefts can handle it. For instance, machine weft extensions are known for their durability and consistent quality. Genius weft extensions offer enhanced comfort and flexibility, giving a seamless look and feel. Whether you’re aiming for a dramatic transformation or a subtle enhancement, there’s a weft extension to match every style and need.

Variety of weft hair extensions for different styles and preferences
Variety of weft hair extensions for different styles and preferences

Flexibility of weft hair extensions

Weft hair extensions offer exceptional flexibility, allowing you to experiment with various hairstyles effortlessly. From sleek ponytails to voluminous waves, these extensions blend seamlessly with your natural hair, providing the versatility you crave. With weft extensions, you can easily transform your look as often as you desire without any long-term commitment.

Flexible weft extensions for versatile hairstyles
Flexible weft extensions for versatile hairstyles

Durability

Designed to last, they allow you to flaunt your stunning hair for an extended period. With proper care, these extensions can last anywhere from six months to a year. This longevity ensures you won’t need frequent replacements, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.

Weft hair extensions’s durability for an extended period
Weft hair extensions’s durability for an extended period

Natural appearance of weft hair extensions

Weft hair extensions are woven into a track, creating a compact and discreet look that mimics your natural hair growth pattern. This flawless integration ensures that your extensions remain undetectable, giving you a natural and polished appearance. The natural look and feel of weft extensions make them a preferred choice for those seeking an authentic and elegant hair transformation.

 Weft hair extensions offer a natural appearance
Weft hair extensions offer a natural appearance

Price of weft hair extensions

Weft hair extensions provide a cost-effective way to achieve a glamorous look without the high price tag associated with other types of extensions. Typically, an 18-inch bundle of weft extensions costs between $60 to $110, depending on the quality, brand, and source of the hair. This makes them an excellent choice for those seeking quality and value without breaking the bank.

Price of weft hair extensions is cost-effective
Price of weft hair extensions is cost-effective

Cons of weft hair extensions

Next are the cons that you should consider before deciding if they are the right choice for you.

Tension of weft hair extensions

Incorrect installation or using too many extensions can cause tension on your natural hair, leading to discomfort and potential damage. This tension can sometimes result in headaches or traction alopecia. To avoid this, it’s crucial to have a qualified specialist handle the installation, ensuring a balance between style and comfort.

Using too many extensions can cause tension on natural hair
Using too many extensions can cause tension on natural hair

Damage of weft hair extensions

Poor installation procedures can cause damage to your hair, leading to breakage and an overall unsatisfactory experience. The process of attaching the extensions can sometimes be harsh on your natural hair, especially if not done correctly. It’s essential to choose a skilled hairdresser to minimize the risk of damage and ensure a smooth, safe installation process.

Poor installation can cause damage to your hair
Poor installation can cause damage to your hair

Require special maintenance

Weft extensions require more care than natural hair. Regular maintenance appointments, detangling, and using specialized products are essential to keep them in good condition and extend their lifespan. Without proper maintenance, the extensions can become tangled and lose their shape, potentially leading to damage. This additional upkeep can be time-consuming and may require regular visits to the salon.

While weft extensions offer numerous benefits, it’s essential to be aware of their potential drawbacks. One common concern is the tension they can place on your natural hair, especially if applied improperly or if the wefts are too heavy. This tension can lead to breakage or hair loss if not addressed carefully.

Weft extensions require more care than natural hair
Weft extensions require more care than natural hair

Machine vs. Hand-Tied Wefts: Pros & Cons Breakdown

This is the most common debate in the extension world. Let’s break it down.

What Are Machine Weft Hair Extensions?

Machine wefts are hair strands sewn together by a machine. They are thicker at the seam, durable, and can be cut without unraveling. They are perfect for women with medium to thick hair who need maximum volume.

What Are Hand-Tied Weft Hair Extensions?

Hand-tied wefts are manually tied by a person. The seam is incredibly thin and flat, making them virtually invisible. They are ideal for fine or thin hair but cannot be cut at the seam, or they will unravel.

Machine weft vs hand-tied weft Machine weft vs hand-tied weft

 

 

Comparison: Machine vs. Hand-Tied Weft Extensions (Pros & Cons)

When deciding between hand tied vs machine weft, consider this:

Machine WeftHand-Tied Weft
PROS

1. Cost-Effective: More affordable price point, fitting various budgets.

 

2. High Durability: Stronger construction, less prone to shedding.

 

3. Maximum Volume: Thicker track creates immediate density and fullness.

 

4. Customizable: The weft can be cut at any point to fit the head shape without unraveling.

1. Invisible Blend: Ultra-thin, flat seam that lies flush against the scalp for a “seamless” look.

 

2. Maximum Comfort: Lightweight and flexible, preventing the “heavy” feeling.

 

3. Less Tension: Puts significantly less stress on natural hair follicles.

 

4. Ideal for Fine Hair: The best (and often only) safe choice for thin or fragile hair types.

CONS

1. Bulky Seam: The track is thicker and may be visible if you have thin natural hair.

 

2. Heavier Weight: Can feel heavy and cause slight discomfort during the first few days.

 

3. Limited Suitability: Not recommended for clients with very fine or thinning hair.

1. Higher Cost: Significantly more expensive due to the manual labor involved.

 

2. Cannot Be Cut: If you cut the track, the weft will unravel and be destroyed.

 

3. Requires Stacking: Because the wefts are so thin, multiple wefts must be stacked to achieve volume.

How To Apply Weft Extensions On Your Hair?

It’s crucial to understand the step-by-step of the weft extensions applying process to achieve a seamless and natural look. 

  • Step 1: Begin by washing your natural hair thoroughly. Clean hair provides a better base for applying extensions and ensures a seamless result once finished.
  • Step 2: Section your hair horizontally. Create small, tight horizontal braids across your scalp. These braids will serve as the anchor points for sewing the wefts in place.
  • Step 3: Thread a needle with a strong thread that matches your natural hair color. Start sewing the weft onto the first braid. Begin at one end and work your way to the other, ensuring the weft is securely attached.
  • Step 4: Blending: The hair is cut and styled to blend. Determining how many bundles for a sew in or weft application depends on your desired volume, but typically 2 to 3 bundles are sufficient for a full head.

Maintenance And Care For Weft Hair Extensions

Assuring the longest possible lifespan and maintaining the best possible appearance for your weft hair extensions requires proper upkeep and care. The following advice can be used to preserve and take care of weft hair extensions:

  • Gentle Cleaning: Knowing how to wash weave properly is vital. To clean your weft extensions, use a mild shampoo that is free of sulfates. Avoid vigorous scrubbing or rubbing, as this can lead to tangling or matting, and instead wash them downward. Make sure you thoroughly rinse it..
  • Conditioning: Apply a lightweight, sulfate-free conditioner to the length of the weft extensions, avoiding the attachment area near the scalp. After rinsing the hair thoroughly, leave the conditioner on for a few minutes to hydrate it.
  • Detangling: Use a wide-tooth comb or a specialized hair extension brush to gently comb through your weft extensions after washing. To avoid pulling or damaging the roots, begin at the ends and work your way up.
  • Drying: Use a towel to gently pat the weft extensions to remove any excess water. Avoid rubbing or wringing them too hard as this may injure them. In order to prevent heat damage, it is best to let the extensions air dry. Use a heat protectant spray and the low heat setting if you must use heat.
  • Heat Styling: To reduce damage, use a heat protectant spray if you decide to heat style your weft extensions. Use caution when adjusting the heat settings for your extensions because too much heat can harm them, particularly if they are synthetic fibers.
  • Avoiding Tangles: Secure your weft extensions before going to bed to prevent tangling. To stop them from tangling and causing friction at night, you can braid or tie them up.
  • Use of Oils and Serums: To keep your weft extensions hydrated and avoid dryness, apply a small amount of hair oil or serum to the ends of your hair. Oil can loosen the bonds, so take care not to get it on the attachment area.
Best Care Tips For Weft Hair Extensions
Best Care Tips For Weft Hair Extensions

How Long Do Weft Hair Extensions Last?

With proper care, the hair itself can last 6 to 12 months. However, the installation needs maintenance. You will need to visit the salon every 6–8 weeks to move the beads/weft up as your natural hair grows.

If you are transitioning from traditional methods, you might wonder how long do a sew in last compared to modern beaded wefts. While a traditional sew-in typically lasts 6–8 weeks before a full takedown, beaded wefts can be “moved up” without fully removing the hair, often making them a more long-term option.

How Much Are Weft Hair Extensions?

The cost varies wildly based on hair quality (Remy vs. Non-Remy), length, and salon location.

  • Hair Cost: $200 – $600+

  • Installation Cost: $150 – $400+

  • Total: Expect to spend between $350 and $1,000 for the initial appointment.

Where to Buy High-Quality Weft Hair Extensions?

GoviHair is a trusted source for premium weft hair extensions made from 100% Vietnamese human hair. With years of industry expertise, we deliver products that meet strict national and international quality standards.

Our weft extensions are known for their durability, versatility, and natural look. We offer diverse types of weft hair extensions: Machine Weft, Genius Weft, Feather Weft, Hand-Tied Weft, Flat Weft, each type is crafted to offer comfort, seamless blending, and styling flexibility.

Why Choose GoviHair?

  • 100% Vietnamese human hair

  • Always in stock – ready to ship

  • Wide range of types, textures & colors

  • Dedicated customer support and strong after-sales service

Whether you are a professional stylist or a hair enthusiast, Govihair provides the consistent quality needed for a flawless, natural-looking installation.

FAQs

Are weft hair extensions good for everyday use?

Yes. Weft hair extensions – especially high-quality hand tied or machine wefts—are suitable for daily wear as long as they are installed properly and maintained with gentle brushing and sulfate-free products.

Do weft extensions damage natural hair?

Weft extensions are generally safe, but damage can occur if they are installed too tightly or not maintained correctly. Choosing a professional stylist and doing regular move-ups reduce tension on your natural hair.

How long do weft hair extensions last before needing reinstalling?

Most weft extensions require a move-up every 6–8 weeks depending on your hair growth. The actual hair wefts themselves can last 6–12 months or longer with proper care.

Which is better: machine weft or hand tied weft?

Machine wefts are more durable and affordable, ideal for thick hair.
Hand tied hair extensions are thinner, more flexible, and blend seamlessly with fine hair. The choice depends on your hair type and the style you prefer.

Can weft hair extensions be used for short or thin hair?

Yes. Hand tied or genius weft hair extensions work very well on thin or short hair because they lay flat against the scalp and are virtually undetectable when installed by a trained stylist.

Conclusion

Ultimately, understanding the full weft hair extensions pros and cons ensures you make the best decision for your hair goals. While they require professional maintenance, the payoff is unmatched volume and a seamless, natural look. If you are ready to transform your style with durable, high-quality hair that allows for versatile styling, weft extensions are undoubtedly a worthy investment for long-term beauty.