Detangle
When faced with a tangled weave, sometimes it’s just that – a weave full of stubborn knots. Reviving an old weave through thorough detangling requires patience and dedication. Arm yourself with a wide-tooth comb and a glass of water (half-full, for both hydration and optimism during this potentially lengthy process).
Using a wide-tooth comb instead of a paddle brush is crucial to prevent breakage, especially when the hair is wet. Always begin detangling from the ends and gradually work your way up to the roots. When you encounter a particularly stubborn knot, use your fingers to gently loosen it before continuing with the comb. This methodical approach ensures you’re treating your weave with care. Once your weave has been properly detangled, you’re ready to move on to the next revitalizing step.
Deep Condition
While deep conditioning is an essential step in any hair care routine, it’s absolutely crucial when reviving a weave. Skipping this step is not advisable if you want optimal results. Think of deep conditioning as a mini facial for your hair – why not treat it to a regular spa day?
Deep conditioning works by opening up your hair cuticles, allowing the product to penetrate deeply into the strands. This process helps restore the softness and vitality your weave once had. For revival purposes, we recommend using a moisture-based conditioner such as Herbal Essences Hello Hydration Conditioner or Aussie Mega Moist Conditioner. Thoroughly saturate the strands with the product, then use your wide-tooth comb to ensure even distribution throughout your hair.
ACV Rinse
The primary purpose of an Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) rinse is to restore the proper pH balance to your hair. When pH levels are off, your weave can quickly transform from “hot damn” to “hot mess” in no time. Virgin hair is remarkably sleek when first purchased because the hair cuticle is fully sealed. However, as you use various products, shampoo your hair, and style with hot tools, the hair cuticle gradually strips away.
Apple cider vinegar has a lower pH (around 3.5) compared to your extensions (approximately 5). This difference allows the ACV rinse to help lower the overall pH of your weave and assist in resealing the hair cuticle.
To perform an ACV rinse, mix 3 parts water with 1 part Apple Cider Vinegar in a large bowl. Fully immerse your extensions in this solution and leave them for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Afterward, rinse thoroughly with water and proceed to deep condition the hair again for optimal results.
Bleach Bath
Performing a bleach bath on your weave can be an effective way to make it feel brand new again. However, we recommend this step only as a last resort when all other methods have failed to achieve the desired results. This process involves using chemicals, so it’s crucial to exercise caution to avoid any potential harm.
Before attempting a bleach bath, ensure you have a sturdy pair of latex gloves to protect your hands. For a detailed guide on how to safely perform this technique on your hair, we recommend watching YouTuber SpiritualGal07’s tutorial. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when working with chemical treatments.
By following these four steps – detangling, deep conditioning, ACV rinsing, and (if necessary) a bleach bath – you can breathe new life into your matted, tangled, or dry weave. With a little patience and the right techniques, you’ll be able to restore your weave to its former glory, saving both money and your favorite hair style.
