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The cost of a hair weave can range from $100 for a quick weave up to $2,000 for a celebrity quality weave. There are several variables that make up the price, such as full head or partial weave, sewn in or bonded, human hair or synthetic hair. Not only is there a cost for the initial hair weave process, you must also consider the cost of regular care and upkeep. In this article we will break down the costs by category, so that you can customize a weave hairstyle to fit your budget.
First ask yourself a couple of questions. Do you want to enhance your appearance for a specific event (a special date or concert) or for several weeks (summer vacation, end of the year holidays, or just until your hair grows out)? Second, do you want to leave everything to your hairstylist or are you willing to do a little of the legwork yourself? And finally, how much are you willing to spend?
Type of Hair / How Much Hair (30% of the Cost)
From businesswomen to Hollywood stars, customers are demanding higher quality from the products they purchase. The type of hair you purchase will depend on the desired style. Hair textures range from silky straight, relaxed, deep wave to curly. Hair quality can range from poor quality synthetic hair to human hair of excellent quality. Virgin Indian hair is the most popular type for extensions. With Indian hair the wefts are reinforced and sewn tightly to prevent the hair from shedding.
If you are getting a full-head braid and sew-in weave the average person uses about six ounces of hair. Most brands sell about four ounces in each package. Some people will use more some will use less. It is best to purchase two packs to ensure you have enough. You can always use the extra hair later. If you are using hair that is 18″ or longer may need an additional pack (sometimes the ends look thin with very long hair). If you are only getting a few tracks or you are bonding the hair, one pack is enough for four to five tracks.
Normally, hair length runs from 10″ (about $80 per bag) to 18″ (about $130 per bag). There are many less expensive brands available, but keep in mind that quality can sometimes decrease with the lower price tag.
Synthetic hair is very inexpensive compared to human hair and is often used for ponytails or hair buns. The costs can range from $5.00 to $20.00 per package depending on length. Heating appliances such as curling irons, flat irons or straightening combs should never be used on synthetic hair. While there are newer versions of synthetic hair from brands that claim to allow styling with lower temperatures of heating appliances, people should steer clear of such claims. The golden rule with synthetic hair is that heat is not an option. Synthetic hair is best for short term use. Typically when the synthetic hair is shaped its best not to change it, it is “What you see is what you get”.
Weaving vs. Bonding (50% of Cost)
Bonding is a popular temporary weaving method and a great way to add volume or vibrant streaks of color to your natural hair. Tracks of hair are glued to the roots of your own hair near the scalp with a special adhesive. To prevent damage to your natural hair, tracks should not be left in longer than a week or two and must be removed with a special solution. On average the cost to apply is $10-20 per track (cut and style may or may not be included in your price).
With weaving, the natural tresses are braided around the head in concentric circles. The braids are sewn down, then extensions or wefts are sewn to the braids. On average six to ten tracks are needed for a full head. This technique can be maintained for several weeks or months. This is a very time intensive process and pricing will vary greatly, but on average the costs range from $20-$60 per track.
In the conclusion below you will learn how to completely eliminate this cost.
Regular Maintenance and Tighten Up (20% of Total Cost)
It is important to think of your extensions as your own hair. The average hair weave–whether glued, bonded, or sewn into natural hair–lasts about two months. During this time, you must wash your weave as well as your natural hair. Weave hair is especially prone to becoming brittle and dry because it is not attached to the scalp and therefore does not receive any of the body’s natural oils. As with your natural hair, if you do not properly care for your weave it will quickly develop split ends and become frizzy and unmanageable. On average, regular maintenance and tightening will cost $20-$40 per track and must be done every two to four weeks.
Conclusion
Ultimately you can tailor your weave to fit any budget. You may choose to purchase your own hair and have it professionally applied and styled. You may want to learn to weave it yourself, and then have it cut and styled by a professional. Or you may have it weaved and styled professionally and choose to tighten it yourself.
Weaves provide a way for you to experiment with new styles and current hair trends without damaging your natural hair with excessive heat or chemicals. Weaves provide new looks which are usually easily cared for, but you must be aware that these procedures have a limited life cycle.
Remember HAIR DOES MATTER!
